What are they for, how do they apply and what are the best waxes for your car?

Description:  Very few drivers really know how this element that is applied to the body acts and what it is for. We tell you everything you need to know: what types of waxes exist, how to use them, recommendations, practical tricks ... and, above all, we tell you which the best and worst waxes in the market are.

What types of waxes are there?

Synthetics:  They tend to be more recommended for light or white vehicles. "Also called sealants or sealants", greater than that of natural waxes.” They stand out for their protection capacity & for their durability up to a year," says Arreciado.

Natural:  "They use the carnauba wax as a base -see 'What is it ...' - and 'the more they carry, the more expensive they are'. They are characterized by giving a greater depth to the color of the vehicle and, for that reason, "they are more recommendable for cars of dark tones. In return, they offer less durability than synthetic ones depending on the manufacturer-, "says this detailer.

Liquids:  This is the name given to waxes, natural or synthetic, that appear somewhat diluted and in spray format. They are slightly easier to apply than solid ones.

What is carnauba?

Carnauba wax is obtained from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera plant, which grows in northwestern Brazil. Its wax is known for the brightness it generates and for its protection. And it is that, among the natural waxes, it is the one that presents a higher melting point -at 85º-, so it is very hard and resistant to aggressions at room temperature.

DOUBTS AND TRICKS

What is the use of applying car wax to the bodywork of a car?  "To protect the paint of the vehicle, since the waxes provide a coating to the same that protects it from air pollution and ultraviolet radiation, but also from aggressors such as bird droppings", explains Arreciado. "In addition, they generate a plus of brightness to the color of the car". A waxed vehicle is always easier to clean, since the wax layer prevents dirt from settling on the paint.

What will you need to apply it?  "It is advisable to use a poliespuma applicator - in a circular way, you will find them from 2,5e / und.- or a microfiber cloth - from 3e / und. Those of better quality; from 1e / und. in hypermarkets-, "says Arreciado, who warns that" it must be clean so as not to transfer the dirt to the sheet. “Once the wax is applied, rub the plate "with a clean microfiber cloth" to remove the remains.

Where to do it?  Preferably in a place - with light - "located in the shade, to keep the sheet at a low temperature and thus avoid the wax drying too soon; you would not have time to remove it correctly, "says Arreciado. Eye, when applying the wax, the body should be "very clean" and dry; although "there are waxes that can be applied on wet sheet," says Paco.

And how to apply it?  He waxes and removes the remains in small areas of the vehicle-for example, hood, a door. The reason? "You will avoid that the wax dries too much and it is very expensive to remove the remains", explains Arreciado. Similarly, and to improve the results, "you can apply another layer of wax on top of the first": yes, depending on the brand you use.

1. To apply the wax  Impregna with little amount of wax the poliespuma applicator or the microfiber cloth -if it is liquid wax, a few drops- and extend - as much as possible - a very thin layer of product through the sheet. You must apply the product "making circular movements and without exerting almost pressure," says Arreciado, which results in a thin matte veil on the body.
2. Wait for it to dry  As a general rule, "you can start to remove the debris when, on the body, you see a whitish layer" but, eye, drying times can vary from a few seconds to about five minutes- depending of the wax you use, so always respect the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Once the wax has dried ... remove the remains by rubbing the sheet with a microfiber cloth; exerting the minimum possible pressure.