car due out paint shop
- Thread starter S3-Andy
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CliffNotes® Version
Applying a Polymer Sealant or Waxing Re-Painted Surfacesa) Polishing or Waxing Post-production Paintwork
1. Refinish paint products, materials and paint drying methods are very different from original equipment materials (OEM) specified materials.
2. This is only relative to re-painted surfaces that use a solvent based paint. Modern environmentally friendly paint systems being utilized today are mostly water-base (EU- Sikkens, BASF, and Brillux), which evaporates quickly from the paint during the baking and drying process (US, only a limited number of painters are utilizing water-based pain, most are utilizing solvent based urethane).
One of the most often asked question (besides Leather care and Glass cleaning) and a subject that results in a great deal of confusion and misinformation regarding polishing or waxing re-painted panels. The majority of refinish paint is supplied by BASF DuPont, PPG and Sherwin Williams is 2K (2 component paint + activator) polyurethane systems; one component is polyisocyanate and the second is a polyol (acrylic or polyester polyol). Solvent-based paints (which still constitutes the majority of what is still being used, despite VOC regulations) once the two components react they form a strong polymer chain.
Newly applied paint is soft, much softer than OEM paint, while newly refinished paint is about 90% cured within 24 hours, although it does take up to 30 days for it to become fully cross-linked (even with the help of a drying oven and various additives).
Fresh paint safe glaze - while a paint is cross linking, using solvent- based waxes or sealants is not ideal since the solvents penetrate the paint and soften it and will interfere with the outgas / cross linking process. The common ingredients in a fresh paint safe glaze are: water, glycerine or mineral oils(to produce a high shine) and a mild abrasive Kaolin (China clay) to burnish the surface and produce a gloss, some polymers are also formulated as fresh paint safe for the same reasons
The application of a specific fresh paint safe water-based or polymer type product, Zaino Polishes (exclude the use of either Z1 or ZFX) Optimum Car Wax is water-based and is safe on fresh paint, or use Presta Fast its a liquefied paste wax manufactured with premium, natural and synthetic ingredients. This unique wax can be applied over 24-hour old clear coat and single-stage finishes without risk of die back, because it creates a breathable film that permits solvents to cross the wax film. Allow an initial gas off (evaporate) /cure aerobic process of 7 days before application
These products are completely safe for any fresh paint system as they allow the solvents in a water-based paint to outgas / aerobic cure process and provide some protection for any type of paint surface. After thirty days (30) the paint surface can be protected with a regular polymer sealant and/or Carnauba wax.
Note:
1. DuPont and , PPG recommend a 90 day period whereas BSAF advise 30 days; but any recommendation is dependent upon what paint, hardener, drying system, additives etc were used, the body-shop / paint manufactures know their products; seek their advice
2. Paint manufacturer have specific technical guidelines (see Product Sheet or P-Sheet) on how to use their products to affect a warranted spot/panel/ repairs or a full repaint. This preserves both the paint manufactures and factory warranty (if offered)
3. Abrasive polish should be avoided until the paint has cured (an abrasive polish will not necessarily harm the soft new paint but unless its absolutely necessary I would avoid it)
4. Vehicle washing is encouraged but avoid car wash concentrates that contain any harsh detergents, alkali, acids, wax (recommended products- Zaino Z-7 Show Car Wash, Groits Car Wash) also avoid car washes that uses a high-pressure spray, harsh detergents or brushes
5. Don't use a car cover until the paint is fully cured?
6. A paint film surface is a delicate thin coating easily dulled and very easily scratched, so choose carefully the advice you listen to and most importantly what advice you act upon.
7. Some Carnauba wax contains paraffin wax, which effectively seals the paint surface more than a polymer due to its formulation.
8. The use of water-based products is highly recommended
Washing Fresh Paint
Freshly painted vehicle finishes are soft and easily penetrated by dirt and other airborne contaminants. This makes it especially important to wash your car more frequently and very carefully during the first 30-90 days. Regular vehicle washing is the easiest way to remove contaminants before they have enough time to bond to your paint finish and is a good practice to maintain the condition of your vehicle.
I would however, strongly advice against using commercial car washes due to the harsh chemicals that are often used and don't use an ice scraper and try to avoid spilling petrol (gasoline) on the finish. (See also Washing and Drying Vehicle Paint)
