Many car owners are always confused when choosing between wax and paint sealant for their cars. As far as car detailing technology is concerned, paint protection products have advanced, bringing out the distinct differences between the two terms.
What is wax?
Coating wax is very popular and is mainly made from various materials known as malleable solids. Typically, the substance can change from solid into liquid at slightly high temperatures. Wax acts as a layer between your car’s original paint and external elements such as harsh UV rays.
You may have heard about the famous carnauba wax. Its name comes from the fact that it is obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree. The plant originates from northern Brazil, characterized by a hot and humid climate, so the wax is a survival tactic. It acts as a protective layer to shield the leaves from excessive heat, UV rays, and water.
Carnauba wax is naturally hard, so car wax manufacturers mix it with some solvents to get a malleable form. When applied over a car’s paint, it forms a thin layer that protects the paint from damage. The wax coating also prevents paint chips because of the reduced friction between the car and anything it meets. If you research how to repair sun damaged car paint, you will realize that it can be costly. Since carnauba wax has an elevated melting point, there is no chance of the car getting damaged by sun rays even during the hottest seasons.
What is a paint sealant?
A paint sealant mimics the features of car wax, but it is more of a synthetic nature rather than an organic nature. A car sealant is stronger than wax, but it still has the same shortcomings as wax; susceptibility to car washing soaps and lasts only a short period.
Ceramic coating vs. wax
You may have heard of the ceramic coating vs. wax debate. Ceramic coating is a more resilient advancement in the car detailing sector since it acts differently from traditional wax. It generates a curing action once applied to a car’s surface. The curing bonds with the car’s paint and forms a hard layer that is water-resistant, soap resistant, and resilient against other environmental pollutants.
Therefore, ceramic coatings provide a more permanent layer than traditional wax. They work against heat, UV rays, harsh detergents, and environmental contaminants far better than wax. However, you need to research a ceramic coating product before purchasing it to ensure it is of good quality. Checking into reviews such as Shine Armor reviews helps you make an informed buying decision.
On the other hand, wax simply sits on the car’s surface but does not form a chemical bonding like in ceramic coatings. How often you apply waxes and sealants to your vehicle depends on your usage. The general rule of thumb is every 4-6weeks for general use cars.
With ceramic coating such as the Car Pro Reload, it doesn’t require reapplication from time to time. Once you apply, your car can maintain the sheen for the next few years, depending on the environmental hazards it is exposed to.
Conclusion
With the understanding of the different car detailing products, hopefully, you can now choose the right one for your car.