What’s The Difference Between Paint Sealant And Wax?

difference between paint sealant and wax

The exterior of your car comes into contact with the elements as well as all sorts of contaminants on a regular basis. These factors can easily result in the deterioration of the paintwork and this can affect the overall value of your vehicle. All the more reason to invest in regular professional detailing. That said, with so many different services to choose from, how can you tell which one is right for you? One of the most common questions is whether the vehicle owner should opt for wax or sealant. Each of which has a role to play and they each offer their own unique benefits.

What Is Car Wax?

You may have noticed that there are a number of wax products currently on the market. Each one has its own blend of ingredients. These materials are known as malleable solids because they are able to change from a solid to a liquid state at ambient or slightly warmer temperatures. Applying wax is like giving your car an extra layer of protection against impurities and the elements. Of course, it is important to make sure that the wax is applied properly in order to enjoy the maximum benefits.

It is also interesting to note that all types of car wax are blends. They do not contain wax only. This is because the wax is too hard to be spreadable. Solvents, oils, scents and colourants are added in order to achieve the desired results and make the wax easier to apply.

What Are Car Sealants?

Like many things in the automotive industry and life in general, sealants have come a long way over the years. In the past, they basically did little more than imitate the properties of car wax. They were known for being tougher and longer-lasting than wax but still not as robust as car owners would have liked. Today, sealants are stronger than ever and there is a variety from which to choose. Some of the most popular include ceramic coatings, silica, silicone-dioxide and quartz. Ceramic-based sealants work very differently when applied. This is because they generate a curing property. After the application process and once the sealant has cured, it will provide amazing protection and resistance to water, soaps and other pollutants. They hold up well against UV rays and heat that would normally damage the paintwork. Another important difference between wax and sealants is that wax remains on the surface of the paint whereas sealants create a bond with the surface which makes them that much stronger.

Making The Right Choice

Many vehicle owners want to protect their cars as much as possible. This is why they ask about the option of using both sealants and waxes. The fact of the matter is that these products perform a similar role but in different ways. So, if you have already applied a sealant, waxing is not necessary. In fact, once the sealant has cured, it can make it difficult for the wax to adhere so it’s best to stick to one or the other. In addition, it is a good idea to set a detailing schedule so that your car is cleaned on a regular basis to prevent any impurities from leaving their mark.

No matter the weather or the time of year, your car needs and deserves to be protected from the elements. At Wash Me Now, our mobile car detailing team is proud to offer a full range of detailing services to suit your needs. Simply take your pick from our wide selection of detailing packages and extra services to get your car looking its absolute best. Call us today at (647) 607-5199 to schedule your appointment.