coatings: my thoughts about it

[kevincwelch]

Scratch resistance? That's debatable. The relative difficulty in applying these would create its own risks for scratches--see original post. After application? Sure. At least a little. A good sealant creates what is for practical purposes an impermiable layer for as long as it lasts. And as we know, quite a few of them last a good long time. Three applications per year is plenty. Two would work for 80% of us.

Agree wrt the ease of application when it comes to waxes and sealants -- as well as the durability.

However, submicron level protection v. measurable micron layering...I don't think there's any debate there in the advantage of a coating over a sealant.

As for resistance, no, coatings aren't scratch proof; however, they do offer more resistance than a sealant or wax provides.

As far as the application of coatings goes, yes, there is a learning curve. I am inclined to say that scratching is the result of incomplete prep work, overaggressive buffing or contaminated MF towels/applicators. In some cases, the coating can harden on the microfiber and cause marring or scratching (e.g., C1 and improper cycling of MF towels).

No matter how you look at it, your LSP is going to be what works best for you and your client. IMO, coatings offer better protection for a longer period of time.

 

[c2a]

I much prefer a highly polished, glazed, carnauba waxed treatment on a car. The only issues with that is longevity. The vehicle will look great two maybe three months’ tops. My daily driver sits outside so if a coating will last longer and hold up and look good say a year. I would be very happy. That would mean having to do the exterior of my vehicles one time per year.
When I polish glaze and wax my vehicles that is an all day job. If I keep them up or let one go to say polish glaze wax two times per year. I have a couple months of my vehicles looking not as good as they should.
I like my vehicles to look good with the least amount of work on my part. Maybe that is not possible. And I will have to continue my routine time will tell.