APPLY THE STUFF THIN,THIN,THIN, LIGHT THIN COATS ARE BEST they are both great. One "ex" is for darker colors, "ex-p" will make lighter colors pop. They will both do a great job on every color, and last and last. Use some spray & gloss or water on your applicator pad and spread by hand (thin to the point of not really seeing the product) to insure even coats. If applying with a machine, only do this with the first coat. All other coats should be applied by hand after that. After you do the first 2 coats to insure full coverage, wait 12-24 hrs( bonding time) before using a topper..:inspector: :howdy