How do I know if an was is good or not?

Discussion in 'Last Steps: Waxes, Sealants, and Coatings' started by Bonilla, Feb 2, 2011.

  1. Bonilla

    Bonilla Virgin Detailer

    Hello guys,

    I know it is a little subjective, but, when I apply an wax, how do I know if it is a good wax or not? I mean, supose I apply an wax I don't know. How can I analyze it? What is the main criteria? Beading? Durability? Protection? Gloss?

    Thank you a lot!:thumb:
     
  2. kyoshiro

    kyoshiro DB Forum Supporter

    beading plays a large role, and durability.
    and ugh simply the ease of application and buff off.
    then its the look/feel of the depth of the paint and all which is VERY subjective lol
    also i like good smelling wax, it cant be bad if it smells good.
     
  3. JoeyV

    JoeyV Welcome to Detailing

    You're in Brazil, grab a palm tree leave and wipe the car with it! :p

    Seriously though, by simply applying, it's going to be hard to get a full quality review of a wax without a waiting period to test durability, which is the most important factor if PROTECTION is what you're looking for.

    If it's simply for looks, then Kyoshiro has it pretty much spot on: How it looks to you. :)

    If you have access to internet on a regular basis, then you can pretty much find out anything about any wax including quality, durability, work time, how to apply, etc.

    Hope I helped! :)
     
  4. BoostedMk6

    BoostedMk6 Jedi Nuba

    Thats a pretty subjective question since some people want maximum durability and others just care about gloss.

    For me, a good wax is easy to apply/remove, looks good, and lasts at least a month.
     
  5. dsms

    dsms DB Forum Supporter

    You pretty much think whatever wax is on your car is the best wax ever until of course you try more waxes.

    The more waxes and sealants you try the more info you will have to judge by and see what you like. Some people like a very warm, glowly look, others prefer a crystal clear gloss.

    Looks are subjective but you need to be tough critic if you want the best look for your car. Dont look for positive traits in a wax or sealant, look for the negatives. Watch beading closely, see how well it holds up to washing and water spots and youll get an idea what works and what doesnt.
     
  6. Bunky

    Bunky Guest

    It is all subjective. You should decide for yourself what you like. If you think waxing is a chore, you will likely want something more durable. if you think your ride is something to be babied and look its best, you will want an easy to apply product. The best way is to buy several and figure out what you really want.

    I first started wanting durability thinking waxing was a chore but over time I did not mind it since I learned to do it efficiently (apply thin, et) so I use many products (always experimenting) but tend to like nice smelling easy to apply and lasts about 2 months minimum.

    I think one decision is whether you are going to someone who uses detail sprays on a regular basis. Some use them, others do not.
     
  7. Grizzman

    Grizzman Any Rag Vehicle Washer

    As long as it lasts several months and leaves behind a crisp clear shine I am happy.

    Nufinish comes to mind.

    I say Nufinish because if the paint is prepped properly Nufinish will look great.
     
  8. Deep Gloss Auto Salon

    Deep Gloss Auto Salon DB Pro Supporter

    It depends on what the criteria is that you value in a wax/sealant:

    Easy on
    Easy off
    Able to Apply in full sun
    Able to apply in high humidity
    Durability
    Warmth
    Glow
    Etc
    Etc

    In short, you have to define what is important TO YOU and then start building your experience with different. Products as dsms explained


    Sent using Tapatalk
     
  9. Bonilla

    Bonilla Virgin Detailer

    Kyoshiro, thank you for the tips.

    I like good smelling waxes too, but I like the stinky ones too. I have Auto Balm and it smells like smashed bugs, but it leaves a nice gloss finish.
     
  10. Bonilla

    Bonilla Virgin Detailer

    Joey,

    I grabed a leaf of a palm tree like you suggested but all I got were some swirl marks LOL

    Thank you for your answer. You helped me a lot.
     
  11. Bonilla

    Bonilla Virgin Detailer

    You are right, it is pretty subjective :hippie:.

    The ease of application is a good criteria.

    Thank you!
     
  12. Bonilla

    Bonilla Virgin Detailer

    dsms, thank you for your answer :thumb:

    Just one question: when the wax doesn't bead anymore, does it mean the protection is over?
     
  13. Bonilla

    Bonilla Virgin Detailer

    Bunky, you are right, experimentation is the key!

    Top waxes are very expensive here in Brazil, but trying is the only way to know them. So lets try!

    Thank you!
     
  14. Kilo6_one

    Kilo6_one DB Forum Supporter

    yes, once the beading is minimal its gone.......
     

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