What Temperature Do You Apply Wax?

[AutopiaTech]

With such a vast array of members that are located all over the world, what temperature do you apply wax? Whether you're using a quick detail spray or a paste wax, have you noticed any difference in the product's application as the temperature varies? If so, what tips or tricks have you implemented to make application/removal of your chosen product easier as the temperature varies?

Poll: In fahrenheit, what is the ideal temperature to apply your wax or sealant of choice without affecting its ease-of-use or overall performance?

 

[Dr Oldz]

I voted 60-70. That is my ideal temp. Some times you have to work in extremes but to be honest I really don't have troubles with products in either extreme, I just taylor my method of using the product. Of course a hot day with direct sun is a no-no and shade is a must.

 

[CT3]

I usually like it over 70, but anything over 60 is good. To me this keeps the panels warm enough for the wax to spread smoothly over it. Also the wax is in a nice workable stage at this temp as well. As a minimum I like it at least 50 degrees.

I'll agree with Dr Oldz,Shade is a must.

 

[BIOLINK]

Currently I am using a lot of Wekstatt or Klasse. The instructions for both recommend 70-80 ish. I find that in the summer in AZ the product dries too quickly. When the morning temps rise here I switch to something like Blackfire and have no issues in the heat.

 

[mwtaco]

i tried putting dg 601 and 105 today in 45 degree air temp. i had done this once before. i put it on by DA but take it off by hand. both times its been a real b#*!% to take off. is it better in warmer temps???

 

[BobbyG]

70 to 80 degrees seems to be ideal. It allows for an effortless application and makes buffing ideal as well.....:bigups

 

[C. Charles Hahn]

I voted 60-70, but if I'm using a particularly hard wax (high carnauba content) I prefer to be between 70-80.

 

[SS 07C70]

I voted 60-70, but if I'm using a particularly hard wax (high carnauba content) I prefer to be between 70-80.

I think you're right on with the 70-80 for the "high carnuba".
I actually voted for the 70-80 for that reason,
BUT my ideal temp would split the 2, 65-75 is my choise.

 

[Addicted2Bling]

I read the title wrong I thought it said, "At what temperature do you apply wax?" Well I use poorboys polish + wax because I can use it even when it is 90 degrees outside

 

[rider9195]

I voted 60-70 being whenever I detail a car I be sure to have the temperature in a range around that in my garage. I never really have troubles applying wax and removing it.

 

[rzatch]

I voted for 70-80 degrees. It's a very comfortable temp to work in and when i'm comfortable so is my wax!!! I find at lower temperatures the wax doesn't seem to dry nearly as well and is harder to get off.

 

[Old Pirate]

My idea temp. is around the 60-75, but in Sunny Florida sometimes I'm struck in the 80-90 range.

 

[DJsDetails]

I like how the northerners are stating minimums. In Florida, I'll take anything under 90

 

[Nth Degree]

I figure if I'm not uncomfortable working in the conditions, then the temp is okay for waxing/sealing. I have more problems related to humidity than temp, especially now when the temp starts to drop near the dew point while I'm still working. Condensation can cause problems.

 

[mwtaco]

oh i read the question wrong.

i'd guess the ideal temp is 60-70 or 70-80. I'll go with 60-70 first since it's a more comfortable temperature to work in.

BTW, a very knowledgable pro on another forum once wrote this:

The best conditions for using cleaners, polishes and protectants on automotive paints would be in a cool place, out of direct sunlight, in a surface temperature range between 60 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with comfortable to low humidity, with a light breeze to create the perfect conditions for detailing your car's finish.

 

[embolism]

I choose the products I use based on whether it's either warmer or colder weather. For my winter prep detail for instance, I used Griots clay which some say is too soft but I thought it was perfect for the colder weather. KSG is another product that seems to like cooler weather better (maybe it's not temp but humidity and it's definitely less humid when it's cold).

When it's nice out then anything goes. I've got lots of waxes to choose from and I've got to give them all a chance to come out and play...

 

[umi000]

I like how the northerners are stating minimums. In Florida, I'll take anything under 90

I was thinking the same thing - the only time that temperatures drop to the low 80s over here is either during a tropical storm, or maybe late at night in December.

 

[Marc08EX]

I loved 70-80. I think that this is the most ideal temperature window to make it work across the country.

 

[Bunky]

I can usually do anything at 55 F and above.

 

[tropicsteve]

70-80 would be just about right. unfortunately i usually end up doing a lot at 92 degrees and 95% humidity in the shade here during the FL summers.