What is varnish sealing?
Paint sealing is a synthetic paint protection that functions as a further development of car wax. It protects the car's paint against dirt, grime, salt and water. Paint sealing Available in both liquid and solid form, it can provide paint protection that lasts from one month up to a full year, depending on the product and maintenance.
One of the most popular paint protection products is Fusso Coat from Soft99. Although it is applied in the same way as traditional wax, it is technically a varnish seal The product is a hybrid solution that combines the properties of both wax and varnish seal . This means that it protects like a varnish seal , but still delivers some of the shine and warmth that wax provides.
4 Steps - How to Apply Paint Sealant
To achieve optimal protection and a great result, it is important to follow a correct application process. Here is a four-step guide:
- Optional step: Start by cleaning the car with snowfoam or another pre-wash to loosen dirt.
- Wash the car thoroughly with car shampoo to remove all remaining dirt and grime from the car's paintwork.
- Optional step: Use fly rust remover, tar remover and/or clay bar to remove embedded dirt and stains. This ensures a clean and smooth surface.
- Dry the car thoroughly with a microfiber towel so that the paint is completely dry before applying paint sealant.
Once the car is ready, you can start applying the paint sealer. Follow the instructions on the product you have chosen for the best results.
Paint sealer vs. car wax
The biggest difference between varnish sealer and car wax lies in their properties and durability. Car wax is known to give a warm shine and makes water bead off the paint. Paint sealer on the other hand, creates a stronger paint protection where the water runs off in flat sheets rather than beads.
While car wax often needs to be reapplied every month or two, varnish sealer can last up to 12 months with proper maintenance, making it ideal for those who want long-lasting paint protection, while wax is suitable for those who prioritize shine and warmth.
How do you prepare the car for paint sealing?
Good preparation is essential to achieve the best results with any type of paint protection. If the car has traces of rust, tar or other dirt, the paint sealer can bond to this rather than the paint itself. This reduces its durability and effectiveness.
For optimal protection, you must:
- Wash the car thoroughly to remove loose dirt.
- Apply a rust remover to remove small metal particles from the paint. Leave the product to work for 3-5 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
- Use a tar remover on areas with tar stains. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
- Clean the surface with a clay bar to remove the last of the ingrained dirt.
Once the paint is completely clean and smooth, you can finish the preparation with a degreaser like Scan Inspection Spray. This ensures that there are no residues from previous products that could affect the paint seal.
How to apply paint sealant
Depending on whether you use a liquid or solid varnish seal , the method varies slightly:
- Liquid paint sealer Products like Wet Protector or Ceramic Foam from Shiny Garage are applied directly to the wet surface of the car. Rinse the car with water, then dry it with a microfiber towel.
- Solid Paint Sealer Use a damp applicator and apply a thin layer of product like Fusso Coat . Let dry for 5-15 minutes. Test dryness with a finger – if it is not greasy, it is ready to wipe. Use a soft microfiber cloth to remove excess product.
The end result
After application, your car will have a smooth and protective surface that makes it easy to clean and maintain. Paint sealing not only protects the paintwork, but also provides an improved shine and a more attractive appearance. With proper care, your car will remain clean and protected for many months to come.