Car polishing is the process of cleaning and restoring fading car finishes. The goal is to remove imperfections in the paint while restoring the shine and luster. This can be done by hand or using a machine. It's best to clean and polish your car indoors.
Polishing your car's paint requires the use of chemicals and compounds. If you're not sure how to polish your vehicle, it's best to seek professional help. Professional detailers use a paint thickness gauge to determine how much clear coat is left on the car. They make several passes with the machine and then move to the next section. For best results, you'll need a good polishing pad and polishing compounds.
There are several different types of car polishers. Some are easy to use and others require a bit of practice. A rotary polisher works by spinning a polishing pad in a clockwise direction. This ensures that the product gets into the paint and is able to cut through imperfections. Other machines work by applying a compound to a pad and buffing it into the surface.
Using a rotary buffer allows you to do a lot of work quickly. But it's not recommended for beginners. Beginners should keep the pressure low and let the machine do the work. Ideally, you should only polish the paint for two to three cycles. You'll want to be careful to maintain even coverage, but you can also use a microfiber towel to wipe away excess polish.
Whether you're a novice or a pro, you'll want to buy a polishing pad with a crosshatch pattern that overlaps the paint. Most pads are colored for the purpose they're used for. For example, an orange pad is ideal for removing shallow scratches, while a black pad is for waxing.
Depending on the severity of your paint's defects, you may need to use a more aggressive polish or a finer one. You'll also want to be sure to choose the right speed for your machine. Start slow to avoid spilling product. Variable speed settings allow you to use the polisher with less effort and more control.
Lastly, you'll need to select a waxing product. This is especially important if you're attempting to remove swirls, marring, and other blemishes. Make sure you clean the paint before you apply wax to prevent any residue from contaminating the paint. Also, it's a good idea to wash the surface before you begin polishing. Having a clean, smooth surface means you'll have a better finish.
Car polishing can be a tedious and laborious task. But if you're committed to the job, you'll be rewarded with an incredible shine. Plus, it's a great way to show off your car! Keep in mind that hand detailing can reach curved surfaces that a machine can't. In addition, the finish is usually less damaged than by a machine.
Regardless of the type of machine you use, you'll want to check the depth of the clear coat before you begin. Hard clear coats can take longer to polish than soft ones, so be prepared for the work to take a while.