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A Word About Wax
Contributed by Paul Gasporola
Wax is an organic material that is solid
at room temperature, melts at a fairly low point and is not
a polymer. Wax comes in many types, including vegetable (carnauba),
mineral petroleum (paraffin and microcrystalline), animal (bees)
and fossil (montan). And yes also synthetic.
It has many properties, including hardness, water repellency,
resistance to breakdown and melting points (about 160 to 180
degree Fahrenheit).
Wax is the last step in car care and serves as paint protectant
and also makes it shine.
It is a barrier against things in the environment including
acid rain and other contaminants that affect the car's paint
finish. When wax is applied to the car's surface, the contaminants
attack the wax and not the paint.
Wax protects by improving slip resistance, preventing dirt and
dust from abrading the surface, preventing contaminants from
corroding the paints surface. Wax also improves the appearance
of the car by making it shine. It improves the reflection of
light off the car, making the finish look smoother and brighter.
Manufacturers continue to debate what is more important: looks
or length of protection. Some manufacturers feel looks are more
important than protection, while others feel the importance
lies in how long the finish will last.
Waxes contain more than just wax. Other substances are often
added to wax to help it work better, making it easier to spread
and last longer.
Polymers and silicones may be added to give wax more durability.
Waxes typically last one to two months or less depending on
the formula and how much of the product is applied.
A polished, clean surface will make applying the wax easier,
enhance the appearance and help the wax cover imperfections
in the surface.
The same wax formulation can be used for old and new cars, as
long as the car is prepared properly. However, the age of the
car can affect the outcome of the wax job, or the length of
time the shine lasts.
It has been proven that natural products has the best overall
performance on new and older cars.
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