Our S-Type sits outside 24/7 and we'd like to do our best to protect it from the elements. Is wax or sealant better at protecting the finish from the sun? I know there are points on both sides regarding which has the better shine but we're concerned with protection more than shine.

 

It has been my experience that sealants will last longer than wax and will offer better protection. I'm honestly thinking of switching only to a sealant because it is so easy to apply and removal rubbing is very quick and requires very little effort. You can always top your sealant with a coat of wax to get that deep wet look and crazy reflections.

 

From the research I've been doing online, that seems to be the consensus. Sealant lasts longer and you can always add wax over it for more shine.

 

I'm in Florida and haven't tried a sealant yet, but plan to at some time. I've used various carnauba-based waxes twice a year combined with using various wax as you dry products EVERY time I wash - which is at least twice a month - and my XJ6 is always beading water so I assume protected from sun damage. This could be an alternative to applying sealant.

 

Try applying a spray wax after rinsing the car and then dry the car off as you normally do with a soft microfiber towel in a shaded area.

 

I only use Liquid Glass sealant. Wax doesn't last long in the South during summer.

 

I always use the turtle wax as you dry every time i wash between using paste wax. It helps the paste wax last way longer. I only like to drive cars that are spotless and this spray is great when drying off. It also helps get any water spots or other items you might have missed plus it adds some lubricant to help prevent swirls. HIGHLY recc. it!

 

A polymer, unlike wax forms a molecular bond with paint once it’s had enough time to cross-linking, usually 12 – 24 hour. Fracture/evaporation temperatures - 350.0F

An organic wax also provides a sacrificial surface that will resist acid (salt brine, bird excrement, acidic rain, etc) better than a polymer, which forms a molecular bond with the paint, whereas a an organic wax forms a semi-hard protective shell (although it lacks durability) Fracture/evaporation temperatures - 180.0F

I've found that Opti-Coat™ has better resistance to chemicals (acid), scratches and release properties and ultra violet (UV) radiation protection than other automotive coating currently in use. This coating has a 2-4 µ (microns) applied thickness and a hardness of 9H (Pencil Hardness) when fully cross-linked (90 days) and provides a semi-permanent coating.

Its application is similar to that of a single component Isocyanate that forms a semi-permanent clear coat finish and lasts almost indefinitely. Unlike waxes and polymer paint sealants that require frequent reapplication.Fracture/evaporation temperatures - 350.0F +

 

I use both. The detailing procedure I do is:

1. Wash with dishwasher soap mixed with auto soap
2. Use IronX on paint and wheels
3. Wash car again (dry thoroughly)
4. Clay Bar
5. Wash car again (dry thoroughly)
6. Wipe car with alcohol solution
7. Mask tape over trim
8. Sealer
9. Wax

 

I agree with chazaroo. A sealant will give you more protection than a wax, but a wax will give you a better shine and depth in the paint. You can experience the best of both worlds. Apply a paint sealant first, but after you take it off you have to make sure to let it cure for about 12 hours.

After it is cured, go ahead and add your favorite carnuba wax. The paint sealant alone will last about 6-8 months. When you apply a wax over it, it actually adds another layer of protection on top and typically makes it last upwards of 1 year. The carnuba wax does only last about 3 months so you have to reapply it often since it's a natural based product. But with the paint sealant and wax, you definitely get the best of both worlds = protection and shine. I too live in South Florida and I use both personally. Hope this helps

 

Another tip I got was to use very hot water when you wash the car. I tried it and it seemed to rejuvenate the wax and left a better shine. Not sure why but it seems to work.