The use of liquid wax not only gives a glossy shine to the vehicle, but also protects the paint from environmental factors. It is recommended to apply the substance at least 2 times a year, preferably in spring and autumn. But there is another opinion: use hot wax for your car after every 4-5 washes. Both theories are correct and have pros and cons. But not all car owners know how to use the product correctly.
What is liquid wax?
Liquid wax is intended for car surface care. The use of this substance helps to extend the service life of the vehicle coating, makes it easier to wash and speeds up the drying process. Waxing the body prevents moisture and dirt from penetrating into it.
As a result of the treatment, the car becomes smooth and shiny. After rain or washing, drops of liquid do not spread over the surface, but roll down.
Applying polish creates a barrier to dirt, which reduces the time between washes. This coating also protects the vehicle from exposure to ultraviolet rays. The main advantage of the product is its low price.
Advantages of the composition
Even vehicle manufacturers recommend waxing your car. In this way, you can preserve the beauty of the car’s appearance for a long time. This treatment is especially recommended after polishing work, because it helps restore the coating.
Pros and cons of car waxing
This method of protecting paintwork has more than enough advantages. It is popular among domestic car enthusiasts for the following reasons:
- creates a durable and aesthetically attractive coating, restores its shine;
- the number of dirt particles penetrating into cracks and irregularities is reduced, which makes it easier to maintain the car;
- it takes less time to dry the vehicle;
- a high-quality protective coating is created from harmful ultraviolet radiation, dust and dirt.
Any car can and should be coated with products based on liquid or solid wax. Manufacturers often even advise performing a similar procedure before the first sale of a new car at a dealer showroom. Moreover, body waxing is recommended for those cars that have been polished to restore worn-out coating.
Despite the many positive aspects, the car waxing procedure also has its disadvantages. Among them, we can highlight the high cost of some work if it is performed at a professional service station using foreign auto chemical products from renowned manufacturers. Another point could potentially be related to the possibility of noticeable stains or streaks appearing on the body if the procedure is not performed professionally.
Applying liquid wax to a car
Types of Wax Products
Manufacturers offer several types of car wax. In order to determine which one is better, you need to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of each type.
According to application technology
According to application technology, the product is divided into 4 types:
- hot;
- cold;
- foamy;
- solid.
The first is a fatty substance. It has a high melting point: from +40º to +90°, as well as wear resistance. The product retains its beneficial properties for 6 to 12 months. It is diluted in hot water and applied with a sponge.
Agents that prevent corrosion are often added to hot wax.
The second type is a liquid, which, as a result of application, fills cracks, scratches, and irregularities. This creates a protective layer and gives a radiant appearance. The polish is applied manually. The disadvantage is its fragility, as a result of which treatment is required after every second wash of the car.
The properties of the foam composition are identical to those of the hot one. To apply it, you need to use special equipment. Air is introduced into the wax and water mixture to transform the product into foam, which is held and buffed onto the surface.
The fourth type of product has the longest effect. It is applied in the same way as hot, but is not diluted in water. It is recommended to use it 3-4 times a year.
By origin
Based on its origin, car wax is divided into types:
- synthetic;
- natural.
The first product has a chemical composition and is produced artificially.
The second involves the use of natural ingredients.
For their production the following is used:
- wax from carnauba palm leaves;
- beeswax;
- almond oil;
- Aloe vera.
Natural products are more expensive than synthetic ones.
Types of car wax and features of its application
Wax performs several basic tasks. This is to maintain the original appearance of the coating, as well as provide additional protection against minor scratches and damage.
This auto chemical comes in several varieties, and each of them has its own application rules. Therefore, the motorist should first make a choice, and then study all the nuances of using the wax that suits him.
Expected effect
Not everyone fully understands why waxing cars and what effect can be obtained from such a procedure.
In fact, such processing is not considered mandatory, and it is performed purely at the request and personal initiative of the motorist. But if you understand what this wax is for and what it does to the car body, many will change their attitude towards the product and want to use it themselves.
Like all elements, paintwork has a limited service life. Gradually, the paint becomes duller, and damage and cracks form on the surface of the paintwork. In many ways, this can already give many an answer to the question of why to cover your car with special wax.
Such auto chemical products help eliminate:
- scratches;
- chips;
- microcracks.
Let's take a closer look at what wax does when washing a car. The substance, distributed over the surface of the body, fills all defects and microcracks. This allows you to create a flat and smooth surface.
Wax has hydrophobic properties, forming a kind of film when the substance hardens. Additionally, the paintwork becomes brighter and more shiny.
The created coating has decent protective characteristics. It helps to minimize the negative impact from:
- ultraviolet radiation;
- car detergents;
- mud;
- dust;
- chemical reagents, etc.
To ensure maximum effect, it is recommended to apply the product in at least 2 layers. As for whether it is necessary to wipe your car immediately after applying a layer of wax, it depends on the specific product chosen and the instructions for use provided for it.
Varieties
Wax is a polymeric substance that comes in several forms and is offered under a variety of brands. Each company has its own production technology and list of components added to the composition.
It is difficult to objectively say which wax is best to cover your car, since each of them has its own significant list of advantages.
Car wax is usually classified according to 3 main characteristics:
- method of application;
- compound;
- form of production.
If we talk about the form of release, here are the following options:
- spray;
- liquid composition;
- solid consistency.
Most often, motorists are interested in which wax is best to use for a car - solid, liquid or in the form of a spray. No less pressing is the question of the optimal method of application.
According to this classification, car wax is:
- hot;
- cold;
- foamy.
According to the release form, as mentioned, it is liquid or solid. Spray is used much less frequently. The product is suitable for independent use.
If we take the composition as a basis, then car wax is divided into 4 basic categories. They can be:
- mineral;
- synthetic;
- animals;
- vegetable.
Each of them has its own characteristics and nuances. To choose or understand how to make car wax yourself, you need to look at their strengths and weaknesses.
- Cold car wax. Consists of a group of liquid components. Apply to the surface manually. The coating is removed after washing the car. To maintain the protective properties, the mixture must be constantly applied. It is best to do this after washing. The disadvantages include short-term effects, which means you have to spend a lot of money.
- Hot wax. Its shape resembles fat. This car wax can be natural or artificial. The composition usually includes corrosion inhibitors that can improve protective properties. After application, the composition retains its functions for about a year. Hot waxing is expensive, but requires little material. The main disadvantage is the temperature at which the mixture must be melted. This is about 90 degrees Celsius. The minimum time between hot wax treatments is 6 months.
- Liquid composition. Liquid waxes are used for self-application. The main advantage is the long-lasting effect and ease of use. The duration of exposure is superior to sprays, but inferior to solid analogues.
- Hard wax. It is characterized by long-lasting effects when compared with analogues. It is quite expensive, but can retain its properties for up to six months. The quality is second only to synthetic waxes. When applying solid products, be sure to dry the surface of the body. Quite difficult to process.
It is worth noting that the hard type of wax is a type of cold protective agent.
Self-production
If you decide to make a good car wax yourself, you can use the following recipe.
To prepare you need to take:
- about 25 g of carnauba wax (sold in flakes);
- about 5 g paraffin;
- coconut oil about 40 g;
- pine turpentine in the amount of 15 g.
The wax is placed in a metal container and melted in a water bath. Then paraffin is added, and together you need to get a homogeneous amber mixture.
How to do it yourself?
If for some reason you don’t want to use a ready-made composition, you can make it yourself.
To do this you will need:
- double boiler;
- 5 g wax;
- 50 g coconut oil;
- 20 g carnauba flakes.
Melt the wax and carnauba flakes in a double boiler. Once a homogeneous mass has formed, stir and add coconut oil. Then you need to let the finished mixture cool. Cold remedy can be used.
After a few hours the substance will harden. It should be warmed up before next use.
What are the criteria for choosing wax?
When choosing car wax, it is recommended to pay attention to the following characteristics:
- Protective effect. In summer, car coating needs protection from ultraviolet radiation, and in winter – from moisture and dirt.
- Glossy finish. All manufacturers promise results, but in practice this is not always the case. Therefore, it is recommended to read consumer reviews before purchasing.
- Compound. This characteristic is important for those car enthusiasts who prefer to use natural products.
- Price. This indicator does not always indicate quality. Before purchasing, it is recommended to consult with specialists.
What wax to buy for cars
All protective car coatings are based on carnauba wax. In its natural state it is hard as a rock. The amount of wax in the composition depends on the price and purpose of the polish.
With a carnauba wax content of only 25-30%, the ground composition acquires extremely high strength.
If a polish contains a high concentration, you should not trust such information - this is a fake.
- Naturally based wax gives paintwork a distinct shine. If the coating is applied for decorative purposes, then this is an ideal option. However, such protection is short-lived and quickly wears off from the body.
- Synthetic-based waxes are more durable and have good protection against UV rays. But the shine from synthetics is not so impressive.
Also, when choosing a wax, you need to check whether the composition matches the color of the car. There are special product lines for light and dark cars. There are also separate waxes for colored cars. If you need to treat several cars, it is better to buy a universal colorless composition.
Popular brands of car wax
Of all the products on the market, there are several popular brands.
Polish Doctor Wax
Contains carnauba wax. Unlike artificial products, it has less wear resistance. Has a pronounced glossy effect.
The kit includes a sponge for application and a cloth for polishing.
Xado Red Penguin
Concentrated product. Promotes quick drying of the car body after washing with water of any hardness. Gives a glossy shine to the surface of the car.
Turtle Wax Color Magic black
Color polish. Masks scratches on the vehicle and gives it a rich color. It has water-repellent properties. The product has a pleasant smell.
Mothers California Gold Brazilian Carnauba Cleaner Wax
The abrasive formula helps clean the body from dirt. Suitable for all types of surfaces. Buyers note the high quality of the product. It masks micro-scratches and adds shine. Has water-repellent properties.
Abro LW-811
The product creates a protective layer on the surface of the car. Has a long validity period: up to 12 months. Renews the coating, does not paint the body.
Plak Atas Hydrorep
Wet wax. Accelerates drying of the car body, gives a glossy shine, and has protective properties. The substance restores the color of the car.
Nowax Ventura Waterless Wax
It has a natural composition, a pleasant smell, and provides protection against liquids. Designed for drying a car.
Sapfire Green Line
Shows water-repellent and antistatic effects. Protects from exposure to environmental factors. Gives shine. Does not lose beneficial properties when in contact with hard water.
Runway
The polish does not contain colored pigments, which makes it universal. The substance has a solid consistency and provides a high degree of protection against moisture.
Sonax Nanopro
The use of nanotechnology in production promotes close interaction of polish particles with the surface of the vehicle, which extends the service life of the wax.
The presence of colored pigment in its composition gives depth to the shade of the car. But the product does not repel water well enough.
The best cold wax for cars
Cold wax is cheaper than other formulations. It is often offered at car washes as an additional option. This type of protection is useful to update and maintain existing coverage.
AVS AVK-707
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
95%
buyers recommend this product
Concentrated cold car wax with cherry scent is used quite economically: 20-40 ml of product is enough for 1 liter of water. A transparent bottle with a dispenser cap allows you to conveniently pour wax in small quantities and control the remainder of the product.
The resulting thin film of synthetic polymers repels water and dirt, adds shine, and protects the paintwork from precipitation and road agents. The drops quickly roll down the body, which significantly speeds up the drying of the car. The wax is safe for all types of paint and varnish coatings, is easily washed off and does not leave streaks.
Pros:
- pleasant cherry aroma;
- convenient packaging;
- speeds up drying of the body;
- does not leave streaks;
- repels dirt and water;
- cheap (140-150 rubles for 250 ml).
Minuses:
- It's not always possible to buy.
Wax is good for manual and contactless washing. The low price and low consumption make it one of the market leaders, so the product is quickly sold out in stores.
Golden Snail Soft Wax
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
91%
buyers recommend this product
Cold wax for hand washing forms a hydrophobic film, giving the paintwork depth of color, shine and smoothness. The product protects the car body from external influences and accelerates drying after washing.
The film repels dust, water and salts. The next wash is easier - the dirt is easily removed with water without special products. The wax is applied manually and does not require additional equipment. It is also easy to wash off - just spray the car with water.
Pros:
- water- and dust-repellent properties;
- easy to apply and wash off;
- adds shine and depth of color;
- inexpensive (300 rubles per 1 liter).
Minuses:
- short-lived result.
It is advisable to repeat the application at each wash, then the body will remain protected by wax all the time.
When and how to apply wax?
Wax is applied after washing the car. It is necessary not only to clean the car of dirt, but also to remove the polish remaining from the previous treatment.
Each type of product has its own application technology, which involves manual work or the use of special devices.
It is not recommended to use the polish in hot weather under the sun's rays, so that the wax does not dry out before the required time and does not turn into a matte lump instead of a glossy film.
Before processing, you need to dry the body. Then apply the substance evenly and rub it with a napkin. It is recommended to treat the surface in small areas. After drying, wipe the entire area with a woolen rag.
It is not advisable to use a polishing machine for processing, because... the film will be thin, which will affect its functionality.
Hand movements should be directed from top to bottom to avoid grains of sand that could scratch the paint.
Application Features
Now you need to figure out how to properly apply wax to a car and what may be required for this.
How exactly to apply special wax to the body of your car is up to everyone to decide for themselves. All types can be divided into 2 categories:
- Manual. This will require a set of special devices.
- Instrumental. Suitable only for hot waxing used in specialized car washes.
Only with hot waxing can special equipment be used.
Before applying cold or hot wax to a car, the body must be prepared. To do this, it should be cleaned of existing contaminants, washed and dried. It is optimal to use a high pressure washer. The paintwork is then processed.
There are individual instructions on how to properly apply hot or cold, liquid or solid wax to your car.
But regardless of the chosen product, it is best to do the work under a canopy or indoors, avoiding direct rays. Under the sun, car wax will harden quickly, but such treatment with special wax will provide a matte surface of the car, rather than the expected glossy one.
Liquid car wax
Remember the main thing: waxing should be done not before washing the car, but strictly after washing. Even if the car seems clean, but you haven’t just been to the car wash, it’s better to go through the preparation procedure again.
Many people are interested in whether it is possible to wash and additionally wax their car at a self-service car wash. Nowadays, many car washes provide such opportunities. For this purpose, the availability of appropriate types of wax is provided. Mainly cold and liquid types are used.
First, let's talk about how to properly use liquid wax when treating your car. It is pre-diluted in water. At what temperature, the manufacturer always indicates on the packaging. The peculiarity of liquid wax is that it should be applied to a moistened surface. Adhere to the principle that the difference between the temperature of the body and the prepared mixture does not exceed 20 degrees.
It is necessary to treat with liquid agents in stages, working alternately with different areas. The break between processing individual zones should not exceed 2 minutes, that is, you need to work quickly. The best place to start is from the roof. The applied composition is ground using:
- soft sponges;
- rags;
- napkins.
If any excess remains, it should be carefully removed. Additional airflow will ensure better adhesion of the car wax to the car body.
Hard types of wax
Next, we will tell you how to properly polish a car with hard wax. This work must be carried out indoors.
To apply purchased hard wax to your car, prepare soft cloths or dry sponges. Please note that applying hard wax does not involve the use of hard materials. The treatment is carried out after the body has dried.
Before covering your car with hard wax, depending on the chosen product, the car wax may need to be melted first. Basically, the melting point does not exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
It must be applied in separate sections, leaving no transitions between them. This processing is performed at a temperature of at least 6 degrees Celsius.
Hot waxing
Now about how to use hot wax correctly. It is chosen according to the color of the car body. These data are indicated on the packaging.
Must be applied to a dry surface. The room should be well ventilated.
The treatment is about as easy as applying regular liquid wax to a car. You need to dilute the composition in warm water and apply with a soft sponge. Then polishing is carried out and complete drying is expected. The best time to perform hot waxing is in the fall.
Cold type of waxing
Finally, let's talk about how to apply special cold wax to the surface of the car. Unfortunately, this composition does not have a long-lasting effect.
To maintain the protective layer, re-applying cold wax must be done regularly, after each wash. Apply with soft cloths or spray. The remains are carefully washed off.
On the question of whether it is necessary to wipe the body of your car after applying wax. Final polishing is almost always necessary. Find out more in the specific manufacturer's instructions.
How to remove wax from a car?
The most reliable way to remove wax from your body is to seek professional help. Special equipment and shampoos will help you cope with the task.
If you don't want to spend money on maintenance, you can try to do this work yourself. To do this you need to purchase car shampoo. The “I Can” manual car wash product has proven itself well. At the end of the procedure, it is recommended to remove water from the surface and rub the vehicle with a soft cloth.
There are also special abrasive and non-abrasive products for removing polish. When choosing them, you need to pay attention to those substances that do not contain aggressive chemical components.
Wax application technology at a self-service car wash
Having understood the properties of this product, you can now consider how to properly apply wax at a self-service car wash. At such enterprises, clients can be offered all types of appropriate coatings, but the cost of the service depends on the choice of a specific one:
- Thus, car shampoos containing wax and sprays are the easiest to use, which explains their affordable price;
- liquid and solid coatings are more difficult to use and are also more expensive, so the prices for their application are several times higher than the previous option;
- The most expensive coating is synthetic wax; its use in self-service car washes is quite rare.
The technology of applying a wax coating to a car is quite simple, but several conditions must be met:
- the surface of the body must be clean, and when using hard wax, also dry;
- the procedure should not be carried out in the open sun, as its radiation prevents the formation of a uniform film on the body;
- before use, liquid wax or spray must be thoroughly shaken so that its particles are evenly distributed throughout the volume of the emulsion;
- The wax should be applied to a clean and dry surface, then polished over the entire area of the body with a soft cloth or sponge.
Many car owners ask whether it is necessary to wash off the wax after application? In no case, because this will deprive the body of your car of a protective layer that prevents minor scratches and aggressive environmental influences. The coating will gradually come off on its own after each wash, so over time you will have to repeat this procedure regularly.
