68 • Section 3 — Exterior & Interior Care Cayman 2006
Waxing
Whether to wax the motorhome or not is often debated. The two most common thoughts on this issue are:
1. The clear coat needs to “breathe.” A layer of wax will seal the clear coat and not allow it to breathe,
possibly leading to failure of the clear coat.
2. If the surface is not waxed, what is protecting the surface from the environment (road salts, rain, road tar,
ultraviolet light)?
It is recommended to wax the motorhome twice a year: spring and fall. Many types of protective
barriers are available today that may be applied to the clear coat: glazes, waxes, polishes, rubbing compounds or
combinations of these products.
NOTE:
Use a grease and wax remover before applying another coat of wax. Chemicals can become
trapped between layers of wax, possibly damaging the paint finish.
INFORMATION:
When selecting a product for use, follow the product manufacturer’s recommended
application instructions.
Types of Products:
Glazes - Glazes are generally used to fi ll very fi ne scratches in the clear coat, being applied either by
hand or by using a polisher with a special pad.
Waxes - Waxes come in many types of chemical make-up. The popular Carnauba wax is a naturally
occurring wax from the leaves or fronds of the Carnauba palm tree. Mineral waxes have a paraffi n
base. Other waxes that contain silicone are also available.
Polishes - Polishes combine wax based substances with an abrasive to clean and polish at the same
time. These products can be too abrasive for clear coats and are not recommended.
Rubbing Compounds - These types of products are generally applied by using a buffer. The use
of rubbing compounds should be left to professionals as undesired results can quickly occur. These
products are generally used to correct or fl atten a surface by removing high spots or small amounts of
material.
When selecting a product the container should be marked “safe for clear coats” or “clear coat safe.” Carefully
follow the application instructions when using a product. Upon fi rst use of a product, try it on a small test spot in
an inconspicuous area in case an undesired reaction occurs.
Observe the test area from different angles checking for hazing or swirl marks. If an abnormal reaction to the
fi nish occurs, discontinue product use and consult the product manufacturer. If the product is a paste, do not allow
dried paste to be baked on by the sun. Remove paste shortly after drying. Clean, dry, 100% cotton cloths are best
suited for the removal of dried paste. Turn the cloth often. Use a separate clean cloth to buff. The surface should
feel slick when rubbing the cloth lightly over it. Avoid repeated wax applications which can cause wax to build
up. Some very fi ne scratches or swirl marks may be removed by an application of a glaze. These types of glazes
fi ll the scratches or swirl marks.
The motorhome has a large surface area. Washing and waxing may not be completed in one afternoon. Select
sections to wax until the motorhome is complete. If the task seems overwhelming, have an automotive detailer
perform the task.
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