How Does Car Wax Protect Paint? – Jackson, MS
Even though we all appreciate the shine from a fresh car waxing, the central purpose of the process is to protect the paint of the vehicle. But how does waxing accomplish this successfully?
Positive Properties In The Right Ingredients
It should be noted that some waxes are worse than others. The reason this should be mentioned is because most of the effective solutions incorporate synthetic polymers that cross-link to create a barrier that offers ample protection. Carnauba wax, which originated from Brazil, is also frequently used, but wears off more quickly. Car wax protects paint by encasing it in a durable film. How strong this layer is depends on the ingredients of the wax, and the more inexpensive the chemicals, the less they will positively bond with your paint finish.
“Waxing seals the structure of the car, so the chemical balance of your paint is never altered…. Pollution is a very real threat to your vehicle, and if you are in high traffic areas the negative affects of the smog are compounded exponentially”
Sunscreen For Your Car
Car wax protects by acting as a blocker between the sun’s rays and your paint. Exposure adversely affects all cars over time, but as owners, you can fight back providing a sort of ‘sunscreen’ for your ride. Excessive heat will stain and dry out a finish so rapidly, if untreated it will cause paint to flake and gray out. Applying an efficient wax routinely makes the body nearly impenetrable to most environments the vehicle is in.
Water And Paint Don’t Mix
It goes without saying that paint and water do not have a co-dependent relationship, as moisture will not allow chemicals to set properly. Every car is manufactured with some hydrophobic component to ensure water never damages the exterior or is even soaked up. Liquid is stubborn on cars because even a minimal amount that has not rolled off or evaporated can cause monumental problems for a paint job. Waxing a car makes water beads resting on the vehicle a non threat, as they will not be absorbed.
No Foreign Agents Detected
A thorough waxing, particularly if layered, can resist the toxic impurities in the air flawlessly. Exhaust, along with the thousands of other harmful particles that make up our atmosphere, are essentially poisons. These agents disrupt the consistency of a paint job by causing them to decay. Waxing seals the structure of the car, so the chemical balance of your paint is never altered. Pollution is a very real threat to your vehicle, and if you are in high traffic areas the negative affects of the smog are compounded exponentially.
Reflection Is Preferred
Any time a car drives by that has a mirror-like quality to its exterior, it appears as if it has just been cleaned. In reality, what you are really witnessing is the vehicle reflecting more light. The film car wax creates accomplishes this by having the sun’s rays bounce off of the body. Besides being visually pleasing, this reflection protects paint by the pigment, primer, and metal not being in harm’s way. The paint on a car cannot adequately deteriorate if it is not reached.
Conclusion
Guaranteeing your paint will always shine and never fade with car wax is only half the battle, as applying it takes a considerable amount of skill to do so effectively. Utilizing professional auto detailers like ours in Jackson – MS for this task every few months is the most foolproof solution to promising your ride will always be preserved.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-does-car-wax-protect-paint-jackson-ms/
Posted on May 17th, 2018
How Does Waxing A Car Help? – Minneapolis, MN
To understand how a waxing helps a car, it is beneficial to know the order in which car maintenance and protection is applied. Though there are an innumerable amount of additional things that can be done to enhance your vehicle, the standard three step process is wash, polish, and wax. Washing your car with or without water clears loose debris and dust. It is an imperfect task that does not last long on its own. Polishing goes a step further, and expounds upon a wash by using chemicals to cover or even remove scrapes and scratches while letting the paint’s color shine through naturally. So where does waxing come in?
Sparkling From Another Coat
Polishing removes impurities on the exterior to make the body of the automobile glow and stand out. Waxing adds an additional layer of brightness to the vehicle, even though that is not its main objective. An admirable car wax is one that will increase the depth of color, while promoting healthy reflective properties. Whenever you look at a car and it appears to have a mirror-like gloss, it has likely been waxed.
“An admirable car wax is one that will increase the depth of color, while promoting healthy reflective properties… Whenever you look at a car and it appears to have a mirror-like gloss, it has likely been waxed”
Seal And Protect With Authority
The primary reason waxing helps a car is because it is the last line of defense of protection against the environment it is in. With its application, a barrier is formed by synthetic polymers. This is a fancy way of saying that it places a film over the automobile that is resistant to UV rays, which are actually far more damaging to the body than dirt. At its core, wax is a paint sealant. If paint is compromised, the aesthetic of the vehicle is worsened, in addition to making it more susceptible to damage and scratching.
Reduce Moisture
Water is the enemy of vehicles, unless it is used in moderation like for a wash. The reason moisture is to be avoided is that it causes corrosion. Hydrophobic polymers in wax positively alter the surface tension on cars making liquid roll off with ease. This is the reason why in a heavy rainstorm water will not rest on your paint job, but disperse immediately instead. If you have not waxed your car in some time, more moisture is retained, causing the body to wilt.
Resist Pollution
Not only is car exhaust bad for our lungs, it is horrible for our ride as well. Most individuals do not realize that toxic elements in the air hurt a vehicle no differently than it harms us. Car waxes resist pollutants, meaning that foreign agents do not embed in your paint.
Conclusion
Car waxing is a science and an art, and as such, should be applied by those that have mastered the craft through auto detailing. Using professionals like our team in Minneapolis ensures that the best sealant is used, and also that numerous coats have been applied to promote the longevity of its care. Moreover, experts in placing wax can amplify reflection and make your vehicle appear as if it just had its sale sticker taken off. Utilizing this protection will help your automobile have a beautiful finish and extend the life of your paint job.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-does-waxing-a-car-help/
Posted on May 17th, 2018
How Headlight Restoration Works – Detroit,MI
Headlight restoration is a meticulously orchestrated process that brings back the beam’s integrity in numerous stages. The first stage is clearing the surface, followed by various levels of sanding, and rounding out with a polish and sealant.
Prep Each Light
To make sure the task is successful overall, you must first work to clean the polycarbonate plastic that headlights are manufactured with. This includes scraping things like bugs and lodged debris. The purpose of this, beyond not wanting to look at the grime, is that it prepares the surface for a major sanding.
“It is a myth that sandpaper cannot be used on plastic, in fact it is necessary since polycarbonate resists scratching to a certain point, unless the damage is so severe that total replacement is prudent”
Smooth Equals Results
The goal of sanding the headlights is to make each lamp as smooth as possible. The smoother the surface, the easier the forthcoming polish will bind to the plastic and give it that desired luster. While a single grit of sandpaper can be used, incorporating a 400, 600 and 2000 sheet will maximize the results. Lower grits have more abrasive surfaces, which is why you want to start with them because you are disrupting the hardest layer that has encased the beams. Sandpaper, mixed with a splash of water to make wiping easier, begins to restore headlights by eradicating a firm film that has been caused by the UV rays of the sun. Exposure from the elements makes them foggy and brittle to the touch. It is a myth that sandpaper cannot be used on plastic, in fact it is necessary since polycarbonate resists scratching to a certain point, unless the damage is so severe that total replacement is prudent.
Buff, Wipe, And Shine
The atmospheric chemicals that have laid to rest on your headlights need to be disturbed as they have made them oxidized and prone to cloudiness. This can be accomplished by using toothpaste, or a car grade polishing compound. Using an applicator pad on a buffer works tremendously for this stage, and around this time you will begin to see the original appearance of the headlight. What is taking place are the ingredients in the polish and toothpaste are breaking up the bonded debris, allowing clear plastic to once again see the light of day. Using an automotive sponge can also solve this by wiping in circular motions starting from the middle of the lamp and working your way out.
Seal With Assurance
A flawless reflection in the plastic means the restoration is nearly complete. To ward off UV rays in the future, use a car wax, particularly ones specializing in covering polycarbonate. This is not an absolute must, but if this is listed on the cleaner’s bottle it is a huge bonus. It is advantageous to apply the wax with either a microfiber towel or sheepskin cloth where there is little resistance and the solution rolls in seamlessly.
Conclusion
Headlight restoration works by mixing preparation with the right cleaners and application devices to rid each one of damage effectively. Sometimes this deterioration is not even noticeable, however after the surface has been sanded and rubbed, the result is a healthy beam that looks brand new. Since there are at least 3 different high grade detergents necessary for the best headlight recovery available, it is highly recommended to let professionals detail them so they will retain positive results much longer before they need attention again. To learn more visit The Detailing Syndicate – Detroit,MI.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-headlight-restoration-works/
Posted on May 16th, 2018
How Long Does A Headlight Restoration Last? Baltimore, MD
Since conditions where a car is housed vary so dramatically, there is no blanket amount of time that headlight restoration lasts. That being said, there are numerous factors that contribute to diminishing the longevity of a light, and they directly determine when maintenance will be necessary again. A flawless cleaning can give a vehicle roughly a ten month grace period until the quality of the beam’s visibility should be revisited, but this is best case scenario. Variables that affect the length of efficiency of headlight restoration include:
Excess Exposure
UV rays are the biggest cause for a headlight’s shelf life to deteriorate, even more than a vehicle constantly driving through dirty conditions. For the most part, debris can be washed and cleared, whereas the damage from the sun is harder to get rid of. The more a vehicle is constantly exposed to the elements, the more frequently headlight restoration should be undertaken. Every make and model is different, using various polycarbonate plastics to create headlights. Because of this it is impossible to pinpoint how long a fresh restoration would procure positive results, but if your vehicle is outdoors all day without any covering, 3 months is a good rule of thumb to follow before giving it an attentive look.
“It is impossible to pinpoint how long a fresh restoration would procure positive results, but if your vehicle is outdoors all day without any covering, 3 months is a good rule of thumb to follow before giving it an attentive look”
What Did The Restoration Include?
The extensiveness to how well your headlights were cleaned will determine when it is time to wash them again. Sandpaper or a rough surface should be used to clear off the lamp initially, as often times foreign elements are embedded into the plastic itself. This is what causes headlights to appear foggy, and is incredibly dangerous to leave untended. Most people that take on this endeavor at home home use a quick spray of the hose and assume the problem has been rectified. Producing a shiny headlight is a far more extensive process. The layer of grime on the plastic needs to oxidize, which allows the impurities to separate and be washed away with ease.
Was Sealant Used?
Just as the name implies, sealant is critical to a headlight’s shelf life because it traps the polish, cleaner, and most importantly UV ray deterrent under a fine film. Unless otherwise directed by your auto
detailer, sealant should almost never be skipped over. A car whose headlights have been restored but does not have a protective shield buffed in afterward will not last more than a few months before it
will start to fade.
Conclusion
Headlight restoration is perhaps the most vital aspect of car maintenance outside of the engine because it is a driver’s lifeline in poorly lit environments. Safety should always be of paramount concern to whoever has access to the vehicle, and because of this one should always err on the side of caution by having a professional headlight restoration on your car every few months by making each lamp sparkle as if they have just been purchased. Auto detailing experts also have access to the most effective polishes, agents and sealants, and are sure to produce strong beams of light illuminating from your headlights to ensure you are never at the mercy of poor visibility.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-long-does-a-headlight-restoration-last/
Posted on May 14th, 2018
How To Clean Car Windows Without Streaks – Portland, ME
Cleaning car windows is important not just for aesthetic purposes, but to increase the vision capability of the driver. This is particularly pertinent to view blind spot angles, which are more dangerous than others. Even though it seems easy to wash a window without leaving streaks, often after cleaner has been applied, the leftover residue actually makes the glass look worse than before. With the proper steps and technique, you can make your windows shiny and crystal clear without those frustrating leftover lines.
“Spray your window cleaner into a microfiber cloth…the use of microfiber or sheepskin cloth is crucial because it actually eliminates most of the liquid streaking for you as you wipe”
Pre-Wash Each Window
Using a hose or power washer, soak every window generously at a distance of about two feet away. The purpose of this task is to loosen dirt and eradicate bugs and foreign debris. Window cleaner is utilized to restore glass, but this will prove ineffective if the surface is not cleared first.
Microfiber Is Your Friend
Spray your window cleaner into a microfiber cloth. The use of microfiber or sheepskin cloth is crucial because it actually eliminates most of the liquid streaking for you as you wipe. The reason for this is because the surface blends well with glass, giving it a soft, even sparkle. While you are able to use a rag, the contours of its design will work against you and you will have to consistently go over the same areas to get rid of excess chemicals.
Use Technique In Your Favor
When you are rubbing your microfiber cloth, first go in a vertical pattern across the entire window, then in a horizontal one. The towel will take care of most of the streaking, but if done quickly with some residue remaining, it will be pushed to the edges of the glass. After your windows are shiny enough to see a perfect reflection out of, place one finger under the cloth and trace the shape of the window to eliminate any extra liquid. Squeegees can also be used if you want an even line, however you will still need to use your trusty cloth to shore up the path it creates.
Clean The Interior With Precision
When washing the inside of your windows, never spray the liquid directly on the glass. Not only will it induce more streaking as it rolls downward, additional chemicals can cover your upholstery. Using the same technique as on the exterior, wipe up and down and then side to side to have each window perfectly restored.
UV Protection Will Prevent Future Streaks
A bonus tip when cleaning your windows is to use cleaner that has UV resistant properties. The reason for this is that rays from the sun place a fine film on glass over time. Though not visible to the naked eye, this deterioration makes windows rough to the touch. These impurities promote streaking because the glass itself is not smooth.
Conclusion
Professional auto detailers are experts at making your windows streak resistant, and among all of the other enhancements they can provide, should really be the ones taking care of business on your vehicle. In addition to making glass appear brand new, they have the ability to completely overhaul your car to reach showroom level quality.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-clean-car-windows-without-streaks/
Posted on May 13th, 2018
How Long Should Car Wax Sit? Boston, MA
Car wax is the defender from your car’s exterior cracking, fading, or rusting over time. Not only is it magnificent at restoring a diminishing shine and protecting your paint job, it helps add years of life to your automobile overall. After car wax is applied, it needs to sit and ‘rest’ before any additional components are added to the vehicle. It is wise to wax your car with numerous coats, and this will add time to each grace period. So what factors determine how long car wax should sit?
“Though not universal, liquid car wax does not typically embed into a paint job as well as substance wax…. Because of this, liquid wax evaporates faster and requires less rest time”
Condition Of The Vehicle
To be clear, a wet automobile should never have wax used on it until it has dried for at least an hour. If this rule is ignored, the wax will be sitting far longer because the water will have diluted the substance. This is an unwanted outcome for two reasons: the first of which is because you will have to reapply the wax, and the second that it will double the amount of time the wax will need to sit the second time.
Environment Where The Wax Was Applied
Car wax should be placed on a car that is in the shade. In the sun, after it has been applied, while it is resting it can get blotchy and force you to redo the process. The more controlled your environment
is, like a garage or under a tree, the less time wax needs to dry successfully.
What Type Of Wax Is Used
Car wax typically comes in two forms; liquid or solid. Though not universal, liquid car wax does not typically embed into a paint job as well as substance wax. Because of this, liquid wax evaporates faster
and requires less rest time. Usually about 10 minutes is the amount of time for one layer of wax to sit. When using car wax that is in paste or balm form, it is wise to wait at least 20 minutes before adding anything else to the car, should you desire to.
How Many Layers Applied
In truth, the incorporation of wax should be a multi-tiered process if you want to garner the best results. The first layer of wax on the vehicle’s exterior should always rest the longest, as the coat needs
to be retained before more is added. With every successive layer of wax added, waiting between 5 and 15 minutes is prudent. Keep in mind all of these time frames are only recommended for people wanting to finish the process as soon as possible. To get the most out of your wax, doing your due diligence and taking your time is obviously far more advantageous.
Conclusion
To produce a perfect layer of protection with the precise amount of rest time, having a professional auto detailer wax your vehicle regularly throughout the year will deliver optimal results at an affordable cost. Waxing too quickly is not only a mess, but a waste of time and energy better utilized by having a pro put their skills in effect and systematically layering each application appropriately on your ride.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-long-should-car-wax-sit/
Posted on May 13th, 2018
How To Pressure Wash A Vehicle – Louisville, KY
Pressure washers are a terrific resource to wash a vehicle if you are knowledgeable as to how to do so. Believe it or not, there is actually a ‘wrong’ way to perform this exercise, and it can be a costly mistake, so it is wise to heed the warnings.
Calibrate With Care
Before a single drop of water comes out of the pressure washer’s nozzle, have the setting be around 2,000 PSI. The biggest mistake people make when using these types of washers is that they just assume they need 10 times the power generated from a standard garden hose. While we want to use the finite stream in our favor, you also don’t want to blast the paint off of your automobile. Always start at a delicate setting and gradually increase until you reach the desired flow. The setting on your power washer is too high if it starts to sound as if gravel or small rocks are bouncing off of the body.
“Always start at a delicate setting and gradually increase until you reach the desired flow. The setting on your power washer is too high if it starts to sound as if gravel or small rocks are bouncing off of the body”
Pre-Soak Every Surface
The point of a pre-soak is NOT to get rid of all the dirt and debris. Instead, it is to loosen any particles that you do not want to spread when the washer is on a higher setting. Jarring foreign elements before washing is advantageous because they will be easier to clear later on. Don’t forget to soak your wheels and rims just as much as your car exterior.
Spray The Detergent
Some power washers come with tips and nozzles that can be replaced to allow users to distribute liquids other than water, like detergents and cleaners. If you are in possession of just such a model, evenly spray car soap all over the outside until it looks as if it is taking a bath. Never ever penetrate inside the engine. Common sense will get you far in what is a smart approach to take with where to place the chemicals. After you have soaked your automobile with detergent, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. All too often drivers wash immediately after applying soap. It is integral the cleaner bonds with the paint to rid it of its impurities.
It should be noted that if you do not have a pressure washer with replaceable nozzles, then you can apply detergent by an applicator pad or sponge. This isn’t as effective, but can do the trick in a pinch. If you are even remotely concerned about clogging your pressure washer, choose the hand method.
Wash Away!
Standing a few feet away from where you are directing its force, spray the pressure washer to remove all grime and dirt, starting from the top and working your way down. The tactic that is most smooth is to move around the entire vehicle spraying the top, middle and bottom almost like you are walking in a circle. After you are satisfied with the results, wash the wheels and rims efficiently. Tires can handle more power than your car’s paint, so a closer application is just fine.
Conclusion
Making a single mistake pressure washing your vehicle can result in thousands of dollars of damage, not to mention the effort you will have to go through getting a new paint job. The task itself should be routinely performed by auto detailers who can clean effectively and make your vehicle appear flawless.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-pressure-wash-a-vehicle/
Posted on May 9th, 2018
Is Pressure Washing A Car Bad? Baton Rouge, LA
Pressure washing can be an efficient way to clear off your ride, but if wielded by a careless hand, can do more damage than its worth. Most automobiles can handle the power of these types of washers in moderation, but only new makes and models can typically withstand its strength, provided the paint job has not been previously compromised. That said, it is a myth that the newer the vehicle, the less careful you have to be when spraying with them. A brand new exterior can be punished just as much as a car that is years old with flaking paint. There are instances when pressure washing a car is not ideal, and they include:
“Do not make the mistake of assuming that a power washer is akin to placing your finger over the opening of your garden hose… These washers are designed for things like heavy machinery and clearing off patios and rock”
Direct Application From Up Close
The worst thing you can do with a pressure washer is place it a foot or less away from the body of a car. The speed of the water is no joke, and has been known to damage even the toughest of paneling. Do not make the mistake of assuming that a power washer is akin to placing your finger over the opening of your garden hose. These washers are designed for things like heavy machinery and clearing off patios and rock. The common denominator for these examples is that they are nowhere near as delicate as the paint job that rests on your vehicle.
Flaking Paint Is Not A Green Light To Pressure Wash
If your ride has paint that has seen better days, this is not an invitation to pressure wash. Unless you have grand plans of completely overhauling the body, spraying even loose paint will frequently result in scratching. This will give you two problems to deal with as opposed to one. Pressure washers may be used on vehicles with flaky paint, but be sure to remove as much as you can by hand and car detailing clay before spraying these surfaces with liquid. Moreover, when applied on aged paint, start with a lower setting on the washer. You can always increase the speed of the stream, however you cannot undo your paneling taking a shot causing an indentation or scratch.
Choose An Environmentally Friendly Place
Pressure washing is not a good idea if it cannot be done on a concrete or similarly solid surface. There are numerous reasons for this, the first of which is its environmental footprint. Presumably during your wash, chemicals and cleaners will be utilized, so be mindful about where your stream is headed and whether such use is even allowed in your neighborhood. Secondly, without a flat, forgiving surface to use a pressure washer, it will make a giant mess, especially with dirt and grass underneath. Massive amounts of water can release from the nozzle in a short period of time, so do not bite off more than you can chew.
Conclusion
None of above listed reasons for when using a pressure washer is bad mean that it is not a worthwhile endeavor, but the truth of the matter is that a qualified and knowledgeable expert in auto detailing should be handling this task for you in a safe environment that allows for the maximum amount of positive effects on your car’s body and wheels. Overall, using pressurized washers is only bad if done by someone inexperienced.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/is-pressure-washing-a-car-bad/
Posted on May 8th, 2018
How Do Car Pressure Washers Work? Wichita – KS
Car pressure washers are a goldmine of ingenuity when it comes to providing thorough cleanings, and it is important to differentiate them between a standard flow of water and discover why they are so efficient.
Pump Vs. Valve
Any time you fire up the garden hose to wash your vehicle, in most cases you are simply opening up a valve that regulates the amount of water you can use at a given time. This is why usually the flow itself leaves a lot to be desired and is not the most effective way to distribute water. Pressure washers on the other hand, are essentially a pump that is compartmentalized in a transportable chamber. An electric motor powers the pump, which gives it the ability to generate a massive amount of force and speed, depending on the model and brand being utilized. Power washers use acceleration and pressure to their advantage by moving the liquid within the chamber at a higher rate than normal. If you have ever had the misfortune of having your hand in front of a pressure washer you know that it is a lot stronger than someone spraying you with the hose. The water inside the washer is typically sent through a thin rod and nozzle which allows it to distribute liquid so swiftly.
“Power washers use acceleration and pressure to their advantage by moving the liquid within the chamber at a higher rate than normal…. If you have ever had the misfortune of having your hand in front of a pressure washer you know that it is a lot stronger than someone spraying you with the hose”
Interior Components
Though a fairly simple device, knowing the parts of a pressure washer will help better illustrate its function. The water inlet is what connects the unit to where it will be receiving its liquid. Almost always there is a filter installed here to cut down on foreign elements and debris from entering the cleaning attachment. If your washer is clogged the filter is the first place to check for problems. It should be noted that not every pressure washer has the capability of handling detergents. While most are water based, some foams and certain ingredients in cleaners can cause the nozzle to be stuffed up and ineffective. This is particularly true of older pressure washers. Washers of yesteryear used gas, however most incorporate an electric component these days due to its ease. Put simply, the juice provided to the washer powers the pump to work its magic.
The water pump is the heart and soul of every pressure washer, and does all the heavy lifting in its application. The easiest way to understand how it works is to picture it both sucking and pushing repeatedly. Water is sucked in by the source, and then energy is transferred to pushing it out of the nozzle. Washers utilizing an electric power source is what allows this process to repeat quickly and effectively over and over. Most pressure washers can handle almost 2 gallons a minute, so use sparingly unless you want a gigantic bill.
The hose attaches to the gun, rod, or whatever is dispersing the water. This hose can handle high pressures by having multiple layers and usually being reinforced by wire mesh. If you were to use a generic piece of tubing it would either fly off immediately or deteriorate in no time. Pressure washer hoses should be able to take around 6,000 PSI with relative ease.
The rod or gun you use to spray the liquid is basically a valve you open every time you pull the trigger. Because so much energy is stored when it is resting, upon releasing it, water shoots out at high speeds. This allows for terrific force in clearing off your vehicle.
Conclusion
Pressure washers are a nice addition to any car cleaning lineup, but they should be controlled by specialists in auto detailing to guarantee they only retain its positive effects, and does not damage your car’s exterior.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-do-car-pressure-washers-work/
Posted on May 8th, 2018
Will A Pressure Washer Remove Car Paint? Des Moines – IA.
Stumbling across a pressure washer will undoubtedly get you to wonder if it will remove car paint from the amount of power it generates. It is no surprise they are often coveted to clean a vehicle, as just watching them in action displays how effectively spaces are cleared, even when compared to coin operated car washes. The answer to the question as to whether or not it will negatively impact car paint is yes, but with some caveats. There are a few variables to keep in mind if you plan on using this type of washer on your automobile’s exterior.
“If you plan on using a pressure washer on your car, if you want to avoid paint removal from its force, the setting should be between the ranges of 1200-1900 PSI… In most cases this will guarantee that the finish on your automobile will remain intact”
What Is The Current Condition Of Your Ride?
This is the most important component as to whether a pressured stream of water will lift paint from the car’s body. Perform an extensive inspection to see if there are any areas that are flaking or exceptionally damaged by debris or the elements. It is a general rule of thumb that if your car is 5 years old or newer that your paint has likely not been compromised. The older your vehicle, the more you are going to want to carefully survey it, especially in the region near the wheels.
What Is The Setting On Your Pressure Washer
Power washers are used because when placed side by side with a standard garden hose it is like operating a bazooka in lieu of a pistol. Massive amounts of water are controlled to a finite stream, which makes it effective for cleaning, but also harsh to the surface that is on the receiving end. If you plan on using a pressure washer on your car, if you want to avoid paint removal from its force, the setting should be between the ranges of 1200-1900 PSI. In most cases this will guarantee that the finish on your automobile will remain intact. Remember, no two washers are created equal, and some of them produce a much higher PSI than a car allows for, as they are used in other environments like construction sites.
Distance From Your Car Is Key
Just because pressure washers are powerful does not mean they are a beast that cannot be tamed. Because the stream they create is so laser focused, the closer you are to your vehicle, the more you are increasing the chances you will hurt the exterior. Standing at least 2 feet away from your paint job will regulate the water to a mist, albeit still a very strong one.
Better Methods For Paint Removal
Some individuals inquire as to whether or not pressure washers can remove car paint because they desire to before repainting it. Unless recommended by your detailer, in most cases this is unwise because a washer infiltrating chipping paint will scratch the surface and negatively affect the integrity of the vehicle, which will leave you with more problems than you started with.
There Is No Substitute For A Pro
Pressure washers are hugely rewarding when used for rinsing your vehicle but can destroy thousands of dollars of paintwork in seconds if not properly wielded. It is wise to lean on professional auto detailers who can service the outside of your car, utilizing them with skill and precision to deliver a vehicle fit for a showroom floor.
Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/will-a-pressure-washer-remove-car-paint/
Posted on May 8th, 2018