Best wax or Sealant:
Is there a best? In my opinion- No! While its true many of the chemicals used in the formulation of car care products are the same (or at least very similar) Having used a variety of different products, at various cost levels, I can tell one from another and field testing shows that not all have the durability either, some simply out perform others in many categories and react differently when applied to different paint types, paint hardness, colour, or varied paint surface conditions.

Ultimately the best wax or sealant will prove to be the one that best meets its user`s objectives. If a product is not working for you experiment until you find one that?s suitable for your needs.

There is no one product that can produce all of the properties for an optically perfect shine, however; for high surface gloss and surface reflectance-a polymer sealant, which also provides durability. Detailing enthusiasts consider shine as only one attribute of a protective wax or sealant. They are equally concerned with; ease of application, resistance to abrasion, atmospheric contamination and weathering.

a) For depth of shine - Carnauba wax (also provides a sacrificial and easily renewable barrier against airborne contaminants (Swissvax, Zymol, Souveran)

b) For clarity - long term durability and protection apply a polymer sealant (Zaino Z2PRO? + ZFX? Flash Cure Accelerator Additive) to a carefully prepared level, clean paint surface.

c) Optically perfect shine ? apply a optically clear polymer sealant and add a Carnauba wax, a Glaze or
Zaino Z-8? Grand Finale Spray Seal as a last step product (LSP).

d) High heat conditions - a polymer sealant, one that includes a UVR protection (Zaino) and a sacrificial wax (Collinite (actually a polymer/wax) Liquid Insulator Wax (No. 845)

e) Harsh winter ? Klasse All In One (AIO) Klasse Sealant Glaze (SG) x 2, Collinite # 845 Liquid Insulator Wax or # 476s Super Doublecoat Auto Wax x 2. If you apply a final layer of wax without buffing it will provide more protection / durability (especial for vehicle storage purposes).

f) The aesthetics of a vehicle appearance is very subjective to say the least, the only best wax or sealant that really matters is what looks `best` to you and meets the criteria you set for it.

g) The final result can only be as good as the surface it?s applied to. It really is all dependants upon, process over product; 85% preparation, 5% product suitability, 7% application methodology and the balance is in the ?guy? of the beholder.

The other variables are; a detailer?s knowledge of paint type, experience with a given product and skill level and experience with machine polisher.

An extract from one of a series of in-depth detailing articles ? TOGWT ? Ltd Copyright 2002-2008, all rights reserved.