Wax or sealant?

[Qship5]

This is a question I am often asked so I thought I would shed a little light on the differences between the two.

Wax
Greatest depth for the paint (When you look at the car, you see the paint and its depth.)
"Warm look"
Shimmers under the light
Short term protection (2 - 3 months in colder weather, 1 month in Texas Summer)
Requires more upkeep effort

Sealant
Highest gloss level
Looks like a mirror (When you look at the car, you see the reflections of everything arround it rather than the paint itself.)
Long lasting protection (6 months minimum for a good sealant)
Often applied in multiple coats to acheive best protection
Less upkeep required

In the end your choice comes down to personal preference and both are good options. In fact, some people layer both products. Layering involves using a sealant first for the long lasting protection and then adding a top quality Carnauba wax on top for the stunning depth and wetness it provides to the paint.

I hope this helps you in understanding the pros and cons of each product type and aids in choosing the correct one for your vehicle.

Mike

[Vandit]

I use Poorboy's EX-P sealant (http://www.autogeek.net/pbexp16.html). I'll clay/seal the car about 2-3 times/year. One thing I don't like about it is that it's difficult to remove. I find myself removing spots of residue for the a couple of weeks after I use the product.

Is this typical of all sealants? I'll usually justify it by telling myself "well, I guess it's really bonding w/ the finish and leaving a strong coat of protection."

[citylightva]

Where is the magic repellent product that makes our Texas dust not stick..?? Don't I wish...I will say the pinnacle liquid souveran is very easy to apply and remove and looks amazing for the 2 hours it stays clean outside..! I'll probably use sealant this summer though...

[Qship5]

I use Poorboy's EX-P sealant (http://www.autogeek.net/pbexp16.html). I'll clay/seal the car about 2-3 times/year. One thing I don't like about it is that it's difficult to remove. I find myself removing spots of residue for the a couple of weeks after I use the product.

Is this typical of all sealants? I'll usually justify it by telling myself "well, I guess it's really bonding w/ the finish and leaving a strong coat of protection."

A lot of the better sealants are a bit more difficult to remove. Sometimes a wash right after the removal proces followed by drying and a final wipe down will help.

[Qship5]

Where is the magic repellent product that makes our Texas dust not stick..?? Don't I wish...I will say the pinnacle liquid souveran is very easy to apply and remove and looks amazing for the 2 hours it stays clean outside..! I'll probably use sealant this summer though...

Yeah, I'm looking for that as well. The waxes have more natural oils in them and as a result more dust stick to them. I am going to check out an anti-static spray that works like a QD for use after you clean the car and is supposed to help repel some of the dust. I'll post up my results after I try it.

[citylightva]

Yeah, I'm looking for that as well. The waxes have more natural oils in them and as a result more dust stick to them. I am going to check out an anti-static spray that works like a QD for use after you clean the car and is supposed to help repel some of the dust. I'll post up my results after I try it.

Sounds promising...