Sealants, waxes, ceramic coating, glazes, car tinting services, the list is endless. Generally, when it comes to getting your car cleaned effectively, things can quickly get confusing.
However, sealant and wax are the most common of all with over 60% usage here in Vaughn. So, what are the differences between a car paint sealant and wax? How do you choose one ahead of the other? This article will help you understand the differences that make up the car paint sealant vs wax argument.
Additionally, the car care world has numerous options to serve one purpose, i.e. protecting and enhancing your car paintwork. When it comes to car detailing, car tinting services, and car finishing, car paint sealant and wax are both essential. Both tend to give the vehicle that glows you desire, albeit in different ways.
Both paint sealants and waxes have unique advantages and are precisely fit for different applications. Although both can be implemented simultaneously, often, it is ideal to use one of the two.
Also, applying car paint sealant or wax regularly will enhance the beauty and life of your vehicle’s paint finish.
Generally, waxes are made with carnauba and other natural waxes. Also, paint sealants and waxes shield the car paint from UV rays, environmental pollution, and moisture. This helps you maintain the integrity of your vehicle.
Keep reading to find out how to choose a side in the car paint sealant vs wax debate.
What is car paint sealant?
A car paint sealant was once a product that mimics the attributes of a wax finish. However, it’s made from a synthetic material rather than organic materials.
Although, it’s slightly more effective than a wax, yet it suffers the same shortcomings with wax. Both paint sealants and waxes are sensitive to car washing soaps and high temperatures.
Car paint sealants are a new development in car detailing technology. Sometimes they are also referred to as ceramic coating, silicone-dioxide, quartz or even SiO2, among others. These silica-based sealants act very differently from wax. They work by generating a curing property once applied to the car’s surface.
This curing process creates a chemical bond with the surface on which it’s being applied – your vehicle’s paint. Silica-based sealants are incredibly resistant to soaps, water, and of course, environmental pollutants once applied & cured.
Also, sealants are more durable than wax. They resist UV rays, heat, harsh detergents and environmental contaminants much better than wax. Additionally, silica-based sealants often form a chemical bond with the surface while wax sits on the paint’s surface.
What is wax finishing?
Wax can often be a different blend of materials known as malleable solids. They are typically a substance that can change from solid form to liquid form at ambient temperatures.
Wax serves as a defensive, sacrificial barrier between your car’s paint and the environment. In the automotive world, the most commonly used waxes are paraffin, carnauba, and montan or lignite wax.
The first thing to note is that the wax you apply to your car is never in its perfect wax form. Frequently, you may see marketing adverts claiming a product to be 100% carnauba wax. However, it is a bit misleading as it’s typically referring to the purity of the wax in a specific product.
Wax in its perfect form is neither spreadable nor will it cater for the protection of your vehicle. However, wax can be blended in oils and mixed with solvent worthy enough to dissolve it.
It is blended in oils to provide lubrication alongside scents & colourants. Also, by combining numerous types of waxes, you can achieve different results like the ease of use, clarity etc.
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Car paint sealant vs wax
Car paint sealants are easily applicable liquids mimicking the properties of car waxes but with more lasting protection and without the in-depth shine provided by wax. They are mostly used to protect the vehicle against many climates, and environmental elements, like acid rain, road tar, and ultraviolet rays.
As such, paint sealants offer, a substantial molecular barrier to a painted surface. In addition to paint, you can apply it to fibreglass, Plexiglas, plastics, metal surfaces, enamel, and tiles.
Wax, on the other hand, uses carnauba wax-based liquids or pastes to provide the vehicle with a glossier shine. Also, due to high oil content, car waxes are usually more natural to apply than paint sealants, but on the other hand, their protection lasts between one (1) to three (3) months.
By waxing your car, you are providing it with a protective layer. For example, when you want to remove the dirt from your vehicle, you will not be rubbing the paint directly. By not waxing your car, you leave your car looking dull, and its paint will be more susceptible to the elements.
Car paint sealant offers longer-lasting protection. It is also highly versatile as it can be applied to different surfaces. Wax, on the other hand, does not last as long as car paint sealants. However, it gives your car a great glow and bright finish.
If you want durability, a silica-based sealant is the most appropriate for you. For example; if your car goes through a lot of rides daily and stays outdoors more, paint sealant is ideal. A car paint sealant offers better protection and durability than wax. Also, the ease of use, combined with its low maintenance needs makes it the ideal choice for users with daily commutes.
How often should I apply a car paint sealant or wax?
Car paint sealant or wax should always be a fixture during car detailing and car tinting services in Vaughn. However, how often you utilize it depends on your type of driving and the “punishment” your car’s paint endures.
With wax, a good deal is once every 4-6 weeks for general-use cars often covered or parked in a garage. Car paint sealants last longer and can remain effective in place for as many as 3-6 months.
Final take
For some, it might go down to the most straightforward question – which is better? Well, it’s usually based on your preferences, but more importantly, how the car is used.
If you’re headed to a car show or maybe a photoshoot, car wax is perhaps your best bet. It provides a warm glow and depth to your vehicle’s painted surfaces with awesome features.
If you are looking for maximum functionality for the everyday commute, ask your car detailing and tinting services providers to give your car a sealant finish.
Additionally, no matter which paint protection you choose, always apply your paint sealant or wax regularly. This way, you can keep your vehicle looking brighter, fresher, and newer.
Always take the time to give your vehicle proper car tinting services, car finishing, and car detailing services for maximum performance. Remember, paint protection is one of your vehicle’s necessities.
Contact us today to get your car detailed effectively!
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