Layering - Dos and don'ts?

H

Holeshot

New member
I'm pretty new to detailing, actually I'm just figuring out how to use the right compount/polish.glaze/wax with the right pad in the right situation. My results have been pretty good so far ( http://www.autopia.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=46853 ) .



My question is now that I have the finish looking the way I want it, I would like to know the best way to maintain it, or even better, take it to the next level.



For the car in the link about I used:

FI III

3M Swirl Remover for Dark colors

Mag #3 Glaze

Mag #26 carnuba wax



Now, I read something about layering Carnuba with a synthetic or sealer? :confused:



My questions are:



Can I put more #3 on the #26, or do I add additional layers of #26, or do I use something different?



If I put #3 on #26, do I have to put another layer of #26?



What would be the best way to get wet, deep results?



How exactly do the glaze, polish, and sealers work with eachother? What is the order to layer them, or is it product specific?



Lastly, what is the best method to maintain the combo I listed above?



Thanks!
 
I'm FAR from the most knowlegeable detailer on the board, but I do use #26 religiously. Layer it no more than 2x a month, and you'll build up depth like you've never seen. Because it's a pure carnauba wax with no cleaning abilities (the key to layering), it will sit on top of the last layer rather than removing it.

Don't go overboard- there is a point of diminishing returns, but have fun.



EDIt- If I'm feeling frisky, I'll throw a lyaer of #7 (same as #3, but by hand) under each successive layer of #26. what a difference!

Bill is right- leave the sealant on the bottom layer, and be dine with it. Only layer wax.

Some say you can't layer. To them I say "To each, his own".

Good Day, Sir.
 
You'll want to layer #26. Don't top a wax with a sealant, it may not bond correctly and effect the look. Top a sealant with a wax only.



As for the #3 glaze, typically you apply that first, ( a second layer could be ok) and then apply your wax. Do not apply a sealant over a glaze also because of bonding issues.
 
Quote: Some say you can't layer. To them I say "To each, his own". audio1der



~One manâ€â„¢s opinion / observations~



Layering:

By applying another product on top of one that has already cross-linked you can increase its density (up to a point) the thin film of product that's applied isn't really another layer. Two to four cross-linked (cured) applications are usually considered optimum



One thing that will negate the applied product density is lack of clarity, the base coat (that contains the vehicleâ€â„¢s colour) is covered / protected by a clear coat of urethane paint, which as well as providing protection is clear to enable the paint colour to show through and provide the colour with depth. Any product applied on top of the clear coat needs to be transparent otherwise both the paint colour and its depth of shine will be muted



Solvents provide a lubricant and aid the adherence process by working their way into the microscopic gaps and valleys of the previous `layer' softening it, providing each subsequent applications carrying agent (solvent, oils silicones or emulsion) are not so concentrated that they degrade or remove (as in the case of a cleaner wax) what has been previously applied.



The carrier system (solvents) allows the product to fill and level the paint film surface to produce a flat surface (this flat level surface is more pronounced with polymers due to their molecular alignment characteristics). This level surface optimizes the paint film surface's desired optical properties (i.e. surface reflectance, clarity, gloss, and depth of shine)



Also be aware that the both the product and the foam pad may be non-abrasive, but application pressure if not kept to an absolute minimum and using use a very light and even pressure, may re-introduce surface marring and/or removal of the previously applied product.



~Hope this helps~



Knowledge unshared is experience wasted [each one / teach one]

justadumbarchitect / so I question everything/ JonM
 
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