Detailing 101 - By EZ Car Care
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Pre wash is an extremely important stage in the correct maintenance of vehicle aesthetics The aim is to safely and chemically remove as many lightly bonded contaminants as possible before applying any friction to the paint with wash media (wash mitts, pads, detailing brushes etc). (Also occasionally referred to as a ‘touchless or contactless wash’.) This helps ensure that potential paint defects are kept to a minimum by washing away as many dirt particles as possible.
PRE WASH
Citrus Wash – An alkaline based solution with high concentration that can be applied and used in multiple ways (see additional uses). This product holds serious cleaning capabilities and is best used to initially cut through road salt, grime, grease and organic fallout, especially favoured during the winter months without affecting your wax and sealant if used at the correct dilution ratios. Most effectively applied by pump/trigger spray but can also be used in a foam lance (dilution rates below.) Spray directly onto the soiled vehicle, coating the whole exterior in a fine film of the product. Allow to dwell for 1-5 minutes (depending on soiling) whilst it gets to work and then rinse thoroughly using a pressure washer (if available). Never allow this product to dry on surfaces, especially on hot panels and in direct sunlight as it may cause staining. See below for further information.
Arctic Meltdown – A PH Neutral solution with extreme foaming capabilities. This solution is better suited for regular interim/ weekly cleaning or on a sensitive finish such as bare metal, unlacquered finish or ceramic coated surfaces. It should be applied via a foam lance/ foam sprayer (dilution rates below). It can be applied directly to a dirty vehicle and left to dwell for 5-10 minutes depending on the level of soiling and ambient temperatures. The product is designed to cling to the surface, break the connecting bonds between the contaminant and the paint and then slowly ‘ooze’ safely to the lower sections of the vehicle. Then rinse thoroughly using a pressure washer (if available). Arctic Meltdown can also be used on top of an applied layer of citrus wash, this provides the best attributes of both products. Never allow this product to dry on surfaces, especially on hot panels and in direct sunlight as it may cause staining. See below for further information.
Sub Zero – An alkaline snow foam that attributes more cleaning power compared to that of Arctic Meltdown. This
pre wash should be used in the same way as the aforementioned product and holds the same qualities but is to be used when a stronger cleaning power is required. This is perfect for winter conditions where a longer dwell time is beneficial compared to using Citrus Wash alone. Never allow this product to dry on surfaces, especially on hot panels and in direct sunlight as it may cause staining. See below for further information.
Dilution Ratios
Citrus Wash – Dilute 10:1 for regular maintenance on a moderately dirty vehicle. Increase concentration between 10:1 & 5:1 for heavily contaminated surfaces. Use a pump/trigger sprayer or foam lance. Dilute 4:1 in a pump/trigger sprayer for heavier degreasing of engine bays, removal of tree sap or long standing organic fallout. Using citrus regularly at higher concentrations will impede on the performance/durability of sealants and waxes.
Arctic Meltdown – Dilute 5:1 or approximately an inch in a foam lance. Turn the gauge on top of the lance toward the (-) indication until a fine layer of clinging foam is produced.
Sub Zero – Dilute 5:1 or approximately an inch in a foam lance. Turn the gauge on top of the lance toward the (-) indication until a fine layer of clinging foam is produced.
Additional Information: Should I rinse first?
Rinsing before Pre wash is advisable if the surface has caked on thick mud and debris that is loose enough to be washed away. Prewash is developed to remove lightly bonded contaminants such as oily substances, road salt and organic matter. Whether a pre-rinse is necessary is down to the individual user, their environment and the vehicle in question; there is no universal right or wrong way.
Working with pre wash in hot conditions When the weather is hot always try to work in a shaded area out of direct light to help reduce panel temperatures. If this isn’t a possibility a tip is to rinse the vehicle with water until the panels feel cool then proceed to use the pre wash straight away.
Sometimes in hot weather it is also advisable to split the process into multiple stages of pre wash and rinse if necessary, maybe doing the top and then the bottom or even a couple of panels at a time.
What to do if pre wash dries and has stained a surface?
If in the unfortunate case of being faced with staining from prewash, all is not lost. First and foremost the issue has usually arisen from the panels being too hot so firstly move to a cooler/shaded area and allow panels to cool. Then begin with the safest and lightest medium of cleaning and try to wash the stain away as it may just be deceivingly residual. This is usually the case when the product has simply been left on the
surface too long, rather than being ‘baked’ by hot temperatures. If it persists then move onto try a cleansing polish, glaze or light compound by hand. The majority of the time this method will be enough to rectify the issue although in some severe cases a machine correction of the afflicted area may be necessary. Always start with the least aggressive method of rectification first and ‘work up’
Is thick foam better?
Whilst thick snow foam may look great on pictures, it is actually only necessary to have a fine even film of foam covering your vehicle. It is ideal to generate enough foam to cover your vehicle in a fine blanket of product that will stay dwelling for around 5 minutes or longer. It shouldn’t ‘clump’ or ‘roll’ off the surface. Anything thicker is going to actually hinder the working ability of the product by reducing its cling time and turn out to be a waste of time and product. Hypothetically, if you have an inch thick layer of product on your vehicle, only a 10th of it or the part that is in contact is actually doing the work, the rest is going to waste.
What pre wash is right for me?
When selecting the correct pre wash there are a few factors you should consider.
– How dirty is the surface and what are the contaminants?
– How old/fragile is the surface and is it going to be more susceptible to staining or damage from a slightly more aggressive cleaner.
– Are there delicate coatings already on the surface that require extra care.
Always aim to use the least aggressive method of cleaning possible to avoid premature degrading of waxes, sealants and coatings.
Additional and alternate uses for Pre Wash products As mentioned initially Citrus Wash has multiple uses, it is ideal for cleaning a whole host of areas on a vehicle.
These include the following:
– Door shuts and hinges – using the correct dilution range mentioned above, spray on the target area, leave to dwell for 1-5 minutes depending on soiling and then agitate with a clean detailing brush or soft microfibre towel.
Ensure all residue is wiped away, rinse if possible. Always be cautious of overspray when using this method.
Ensure the lubrication of the hinge is adequate, applying fresh grease if necessary.
– Engine bays – The same dilution ratios and method applies here but pay extra care ensuring electrical and air inlet areas are covered/ protected from ingress of water. Otherwise be sure that these areas can be wet/pressure washed without issue.
– Rubber trim/ Badges/ Plastic trim/ Grill surrounds – These areas can see a build up of muck over periods of time that can prove challenging to remove safely and efficiently. Using the correct dilution range mentioned above, spray on the target area, leave to dwell for 1-5 minutes depending on soiling and then agitate with a clean detailing brush with no pressure. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue remains.
Warning
– Using citrus/ sub zero at high concentrations will impede on the performance of sealants and waxes.
– Using citrus/ sub zero at high concentrations may stain unprotected metals and paint
– Do not allow the product to dry on surfaces.
– Always stand up-wind when spraying products, avoid contact with skin, irritant to eyes and the airways.
– Always wear eye protection where possible.
– If consumed do not induce vomiting and consult a doctor immediately.
– Keep out of reach of children and animals.
Storage – Store snow foams indoors during ambient temperature conditions of 5 degrees celsius or lower as the consistency may change after freezing / thawing.
WASH (WHEELS)
Wheel CleaningViper – Method 1
Viper is a concentrated wheel cleaner that can be diluted to your requirements. I find it best used at 10:1-3:1 for maintenance cleans, increasing that to 1:1 and neat where heavy soiling is present.
Apply viper to the whole wheel and allow it to dwell like you
would a prewash and then pressure rinse away. You will find this removes the majority of contaminants without actually having to touch the surface with any cleaning tools.
Viper – Method 2
Another way to use Viper is during the contact wash stage. Apply it to your wheel cleaning tools at your desired concentration and lightly agitate the surface to help remove bonded dirt that shampoo alone will not shift.
Geo Gel – Alkaline Foaming Wheel Cleaner Geo Gel can be used in the same way as viper but must be noted that it is non dilutable. It is a thicker formula that works great to remove heavier soiling through increased contact time.
Aurora – Fallout Remover
When dealing with ‘caked’ on brake dust, the safest way of removal without having to use any harsh acids and cleaners is to apply Aurora Advanced Fallout Remover to the wheels after they have been washed with standard practices. It is important not to apply it to the wheels before they have been cleaned as the product will automatically react with contaminants that are not actually bonded to the surface, these are contaminants that can be easily washed away using standard wash practices with the likes of viper, Geo Gel and shampoo wash media. Applying Aurora to a dirty, unwashed wheel is a waste of product! It is designed to remove embedded contaminants effectively, safely and efficiently. (See Aurora below in the decontamination section for more information)
Ultimate APC is a highly concentrated all purpose cleaner. It contains strong cleaning surfactants designed to break down oil, grease and heavy soiling. It can be diluted up to 20:1 for use on fabrics and other delicate materials but can also be used 1:1 or even neat where necessary to cut through heavy soiling in engine bays, wheel arches and door shuts. Ultimate can be applied and left to dwell through a pump sprayer, trigger or foam sprayer/snow foam lance as it also contains a mild foaming agent. It can also be used via a wet extraction machine with a de-foaming agent.
– Door shuts and hinges – using the correct dilution range mentioned above, spray on the target area, leave to dwell for 1-5 minutes depending on soiling and then agitate with a clean detailing brush or soft microfibre towel.
Ensure all residue is wiped away, rinse if possible. Always be cautious of over-spray when using this method. Ensure the lubrication of the hinge is adequate, applying fresh grease if necessary.
The decontamination process is the advancement from the standard wash procedure. This goes from removing lightly bonded dirt and grime to removing contaminants that are chemically bonded and embedded within the surface. This is achieved by using a specialist group of products designed to achieve results as effectively and safely as possible.
If your paint feels rough to touch or is covered in tin orange dots or black/brown spots. If it still seems dirty in high traffic areas and is still looking dull and lacks lustre after a wash. Typically every 6 months as an average depending on usage.
Types of bonded contamination/ fallout
– Industrial Fallout – Very small particles of airborne ferrous metal. This is caused by any type of metal on metal friction. Mainly caused by the iron rich dust emitted into the atmosphere from a vehicle’s brakes. This contaminant can also be picked up environmentally from nearby train tracks, factories, shipyards, metal foundries and workshops.
This type of fallout is more commonly visible on light colours and appears on paintwork and wheels as extremely small dots or rings of orange imperfections which are in fact fragments of oxidised/rusted metal.
These metal particles bond through getting wet whilst airborne and oxidising to the surface upon landing.
hard to avoid when having to park under or near trees. These contaminants are extremely sticky by nature and bond quickly to the surface. Some saps are also acidic and can therefore etch paintwork if left uncared for. This type of contaminant is usually found on horizontal/upward facing surfaces.
– Tree sap appears as small, tacky, clear dots. If left to build up through prolonged exposure it may appear as a film of residue that feels rough and sticky to the touch.
– Resin appears as small hard domes on the surface. These are usually a light amber colour and are brittle but difficult to remove. It bonds to the surface upon impact as a liquid which then cures to a hard solid over a short space of time.
– Pollen is very small in particle size but can cover a vehicle in a yellowish film that looks like dust. A standard rinse and pre wash will usually remove the majority of the contaminant but due to pollen’s sharp, barbed like features it may ‘anchor’ into the paint surface through friction or pressure and is worth noting. See GTR Glue and Tar Remover.
via car tyres and surrounding traveling vehicles. They form an instantly strong bond to surfaces and can be abrasive, unsightly and difficult to remove. See GTR Glue and Tar Remover.
A hydrocarbon based, non dilutable tar and glue remover. This product is to remove bonded contaminants such as road tar, bitumen, built up traffic film, adhesive residues and stubborn organic fallout such as tree sap, resin and pollen.
A Clay bar should only commence after the previous wash processes have been carried out. The vehicle should be clean and have had chemical decontamination prior to remove as many contaminants as possible beforehand, this will help reduce marring while using the clay.
Aurora – Fallout Remover
Aurora is a revolutionary fallout remover, not only focussed on removing iron, but other harsh metals also.
Just like an ordinary fallout remover, Aurora will turn purple upon contact with iron contaminants but additional to this, Aurora will turn green whilst it is reacting with other heavy metal contaminants such as lead.
Aurora is safe to use on paintwork and glass as well as wheels.
First of all carry out the standard prewash and wash process as required and detailed above. Spray the
product liberally to produce a fine even film on the afflicted area. Allow to dwell for 5-10 minutes depending on ambient temperature but do not allow the product to dry.
Pressure rinse thoroughly from top to bottom to ensure all residue has been washed away. Once complete, assess the surface to see if the contaminants are removed, in severe cases a repeat application may be required.
Reset is preferably to be used on a clean and dry vehicle. Simply spray the product onto the surface creating
a fine film and allow it to dwell for around 5 minutes, do not let the product dry to the surface and do not use it in direct sunlight or on hot panels! Take extra care with sensitive finishes like plastic and aluminium trim etc.
To avoid overspray or contact with certain areas of the vehicle Reset can also be sprayed directly into a clean microfibre cloth and worked over the surface panel by panel. Once complete, rinse the vehicle thoroughly to remove any product residue, dry the surfaces and its ready for panel wipe and protection!
Eliminator – Paint Cleansing
Panel Wipe
Eliminator is designed to remove any residual oils, fingerprints, water marks etc from previous stages in preparation for applying protection such as sealants and waxes. It should be the last thing you do before applying protection to help ensure that the wax you’re applying can achieve the best bond with the surface. It will help ensure the best results and durability from any protection product.
Reset is ready to use out of the bottle and should not be diluted. Once the surface is clean and dry, (preferably decontaminated if required) a couple of sprays into a clean plush microfibre cloth or direct to the surface working panel by panel and buffing dry; move methodically around the vehicle ensuring all areas that are to be waxed have been treated.
INTERIOR PRODUCTS
Clarity – Window & Glass Cleaner
A good tip when using Clarity is to buff the interior in one direction and the outer in the other direction. That way if you have a smear it’s easier to spot whether it’s on the inside or the outside. Don’t forget to drop any windows to clean the area of window threshold usually tucked away in the door seal.
The complete range of EZ air fresheners work in the same way. They are non-dilutable, ready to use products that are easily applied to any soft materials by simply spraying the product directly to the surface. A great tip for adding longevity of the scent is to spray a few squirts of the product onto the vehicles cabin filter, that way every time fresh air is circulated into the cabin it will bring the pleasant scent through with it. Another tip when finishing an interior clean is to spray a fine film of air freshener onto the freshly vacuumed floor mats. Then using a stiff brush or pet hair remover with forward and backward motions, carefully trace lines in the pile of the mat to drag it each way producing a ‘freshly detailed’ striped finish that also smells great too.
Restore 2.0 – Leather Cleaner & Conditioner
Restore 2.0 has been developed to not only clean but condition your leather. Containing no abrasives, Restore 2.0 allows for a safe yet effective experience. Perfect for use on leather seats, steering wheels or leather dashboards.
One thing to note when it comes to leather in your vehicle is that it should be matte. For example, if your seats have started to develop a shine then this often means that they have gathered natural dirt & grease and could do with a clean using Restore 2.0.
Sleek is a dedicated interior dressing with added cleaning abilities. It is ideal to use during maintenance cleans of interior surfaces to cleanse and dress at the same time without being greasy to the touch. It is designed to leave a satin/ semi gloss finish that can be built on by adding layers or reduced by buffing after application. To use, it is recommended to spray a couple of hits into a clean microfibre cloth to reduce the chance of overspray to any other surfaces (i.e windows etc). Sleek is a ready to use, non-dilutable product.
Last stage product/ last stage protection or ‘LSP’ is a product to be used as the very last step in the cleaning process. LSPs are there to add a layer of protection from the elements your vehicle is exposed to with day-to-day use. They are usually hydrophobic, gloss/colour enhancing and occasionally include additives to add slickness of feel to the paint, to protect from UV rays and fill defects on a micro level.
Spread, cure and buff – This method of application takes the most amount of time and effort to complete but usually returns the greatest results. It is predominantly used with paste and cream type products. Apply a small amount of product to a foam/microfibre applicator and work panel by panel spreading the product thinly and evenly across the surface. Either work the product in small overlapping circular motions or in a ‘crosshatch’ style moving in straight lines one way across the panel and then through 90° in the other. Allow the applied product to cure for 5-15 minutes depending on the ambient temperature and humidity.
The warmer and more humid the environment is, the sooner the product will be cured and ready to buff. As the environment changes day to day there is a more accurate method to use as an indication of when the product is cured and ready for removal. Carefully swipe a finger through the applied LSP and note how the product moves under your finger tip. If it smears on the surface and leaves a greasy mark it is usually too early to remove. If the product is removed cleanly and smear free; it is a good indication that the product is cured and ready to come off.
be in greater quantity than that of a spray and buff product. Your towel will become filled with the product as you remove it, a way to aid removal as mentioned earlier: fold a clean microfibre buffing cloth into four and without pressure begin removing the left over product. Rotate the towel to reveal a fresh side frequently, a good rule of thumb is to turn the towel around every other panel.
NOTE: Spreading into the thinnest and most even layer possible will ensure the product cures efficiently, buffs off easily and provides the best results and durability possible.
There are currently 6 base waxes available in the EZ line-up. They all apply in the same way as detailed above and all have ease of use as one of their main qualities by specification. Below I will detail the differences between each wax and when/where to best to utilise their attributes.
Ceramic Wax A T1 grade carnauba and microcrystalline based wax containing multiple oils, polymers and packed with Sio2 to aid gloss, hydrophobic qualities and durability. It is extremely easy to apply and remove and will endure 6 months if applied correctly. It is great to use as a standalone wax but can also be layered on top of Synthesis or Ceramic Wax Extreme.
Ceramic Wax Extreme contains all of the same waxes as its little brother, therefore mentioned Ceramic Wax but has had its polymer and additive system restructured to contain even more SiO2 to further boost its attributes and durability. What’s also worth noting is that due to some minor tweaks to the carrier oils, Ceramic Wax Extreme is still an easy to use product despite its higher content of active ingredients.
With durability of around 8 weeks it’s great to use for added gloss in the summer months or as a top layer to a more durable wax/ sealant.
Rim – Temperature Resistant Wheel Wax
Rim was developed with heat resistance and durability in mind. With a prominent content of High-Temp Microcrystalline wax blended with T1 grade Carnauba and synthetic carrier oils it is specially formulated to be used on alloy wheels and exhaust tips to withstand heat cycling and the wear and tear of ‘high traffic’ areas. With its curable resin additives it is also very durable and chemical resistant.
This wax is similar in its attributes to Olympea as mentioned above. The main difference being is that Gloss Boss contains high quality montan wax in place of the T1 grade carnauba. This provides a slightly different gloss finish, Gloss Boss wax is more of a ‘crystalline’, cool look whereas Olympea/ Carnauba based waxes have a tendency to provide a warmer, softer finish. It has been noted that Gloss Boss Wax is great to use on light colours for this reason.
This wax is the latest development of graphene technology, it shares all of the same attributes and benefits of the graphene wax but with added temperature and chemical resistant properties to help it withstand the ‘high traffic’ use for wheels and exhausts. The base makeup of this wax is a compilation of microcrystalline waxes known for their high temperature resistance combined with a curable resin system, synthetic oils and polymers.
Revolution has been developed with ease of use and longevity in mind, Revolutions silicone-based gel formula is the perfect option for those who love that deep black look on their plastic trims & tyres.
Revolution accommodates state of the art UV protection which drastically helps your trim & tyres from getting that dreaded faded look whilst additionally having added waterproofing agents to keep it on the surface during washes.
Revolution should be applied to tyres that have been cleaned using an APC (all purpose cleaner) such as Ultimate. The reason for this is pretty straight forward… If there is dirt present on the tyre, Revolution will not be able to create the bond it needs to offer the best results. Although you may find that Revolution even makes a dirty tyre look great, not cleaning the surface will greatly hinder the effects of the product. The same rule applies for plastic trims.
Graphene Wax
Graphene Wax is the latest technology breakthrough from Innovation Chem,it is a carnauba prominant wax formula attributed by other natural and synthetic waxes infused with polymers, specialised additives and synthetic carrier oils. Not to mention the meticulously developed suspension of Graphene. It is to be applied as per any other wax from EZ although it should be noted that application can be slightly tougher than that of the Ceramic Wax or Olympea for example, it is important to ensure that the layer of wax applied is as thin and evenly spread as possible. It is also recommended to apply one layer and then at least one hour later apply a second, this will help achieve maximum results and durability. Graphene is the strongest known substance to man, extremely heat resistant and very durable.
Fusion – Ultra Hydrophobic Spray Sealant Fusion is a ready to use Sio2 spray sealant with multiple easy to use application methods. It is to be applied after the wash process or after a full decontamination for superior results. The easiest and fastest application is to spray a mist of the product systematically in sections onto wet panels. Ensure to rinse after 10-15 seconds thoroughly to remove the excess product. As you spray the product onto the wet surface you will notice the water behaviour changes almost immediately, it is important to rinse thoroughly to avoid any residues being left behind, this is notably more common when used on glass. Whilst using this method of application is favourable for time and ease, working incredibly well as a quick protection top up after maintenance cleans, the best method of application for performance of the sealant is to use it as a spray and wipe product on a dry car after a wash or full decontamination. Simply spray a couple of hits per panel or into a plush microfibre cloth to avoid overspray; spread the product over the surface and buff with another cloth. Due to the increased contact and cure time with the surface the product is able to provide longer durability and better contact angles for better beading and sheeting.
Instagloss is a concentrated wax additive that is best applied via a foam lance or spray and rinse method. It is best diluted at 4:1 or 400ml of water to 100ml of product. It promotes great gloss levels from a very simple and effortless application, it also creates great sheeting qualities to aid the drying process. It should be applied to a clean car that has been rinsed off and is still wet. Coat the vehicle in a layer of foam and allow it to dwell for around 60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly from top to bottom. Instagloss can also be used as a ‘drying aid’. When the vehicle is wet, coat each part of the vehicle working one panel at a time with the diluted solution, then with a high GSM microfibre towel work the product across the surface and dry with another towel. The benefit to this is that you are applying the product to the surface whilst drying the vehicle at the same time, this saves time and effort. It is advised not to use dedicated drying towels with drying aids as the towel will soak up the excess product as well as the water and this will hinder the absorption of the towel in the long run. Instagloss can also be used via a spray and rinse application, use the same dilution ratio as mentioned above (4:1) and cover the car panel by panel in a fine film of product rinsing after each panel has been coated. Systematically work around the vehicle until everywhere has been covered. It is important to ensure that this product does not dry to the surface as it will result in residue marks on the paint/glass. Do not use it in direct sunlight or on hot panels.
Deflector is a foaming spray and rinse product. It is super easy to use and very effective, simply pour 100ml into a snow foam lance and add 400ml of water, that’s a 4:1 ratio. Apply the foam to a vehicle that has been cleaned and is still wet. Allow the foam to dwell for a short period of time, usually around 30 seconds and then rinse thoroughly from top to bottom. It is an extremely hydrophobic product that has great sheeting capabilities. It should be noted that Deflector also has UV inhibiting properties to protect surfaces from UV degradation. It is an ideal protection top up to use when time is short, for example if you’re caught in the rain at the end of a wash and can’t use a quick detailer or top up sealant. It also works great as a quick and easy way to bring a degrading wax/sealant ‘back to life.’ It should be noted that Deflector can also be used via a spray and rinse application, use the same dilution ratio as mentioned above (4:1) and cover the car panel by panel in a fine film of product rinsing after each panel has been coated. Systematically work around the vehicle until everywhere has been covered. It is important to ensure that this product does not dry to the surface as it will result in residue marks on the paint/glass. Do not use it in direct sunlight or on hot panels.
Gloss Boss is a dedicated quick detailer that is extremely easy to use as a spray and wipe product. It comes ready to use and shouldn’t be diluted. It is ideally to be used on a washed/clean vehicle as a last step product. It is designed primarily to add gloss and slickness of feel/ slip to painted finishes. Another attribute that should be noted though is its hydrophobic protection qualities, it has abilities to really aid beading and sheeting of water on the surface.
It is durable for approximately one month and can be layered for added longevity. To use, simply spray two/three squirts directly per small panel/ half a door, spread across the surface with a clean microfibre buffing towel before flipping the towel or using a separate cloth to buff
to a high shine. Remember less is more with LSP’s, if you over apply it will become harder to remove the product upon buffing.
Due to its lubricity, Gloss Boss can also be used as a clay lube alternative. In this instance dilute the product 1:1 with water and then in a spray bottle or pump sprayer spray liberally to the surface and clay bar, then proceed as you would normally. (See clay bar treatment in decontamination section.)
Chrome works in the same way as a quick detailer with a difference. It contains a carnauba wax emulsion to add another level of gloss and protection. It is a spray and buff product but it should be noted that due to the curable wax content it is ideal to spread a fine layer of product with one cloth and then allow the film of the product to cure for a short period of time. Usually 1-2 minutes depending on ambient temperature and humidity. After this brief curing period use a separate buffing cloth to effortlessly remove the excess product and reveal the glossy protected finish.
Remember less is more with these products and a little bit goes a long way. Two sprays of Chrome should cover a small panel or half a door size area. It is very important not to use this product on hot panels or in direct sunlight, if you do use it this way you take risk of the product not curing correctly and ‘smearing’ around the surface without actually curing and buffing clear.
A hybrid quick detailer packed with active ingredients to bring fantastic gloss and hydrophobic qualities whilst ensuring long lifecycle durability. It contains multiple emulsified waxes, polymers, resins and gloss enhancing additives. Despite its complex formulation, application is still easy to carry out as long as the product is used sparingly. Two sprays will roughly be enough to spread over half a bonnet size and still remove without any additional effort. If over applied, Voodoo 2.0 will smear and continue to move around the panel proving difficult to remove. It is very important not to use this product on hot panels or in direct sunlight, if you do use it this way you take risk of the product not curing correctly and ‘smearing’ around the surface without actually curing and buffing clear.
Ghost is a dedicated spray and wipe sealant. It is 100% synthetic in its makeup and provides the longest lasting protection in the ‘mainstream’ product lineup from EZ. It is packed with a complex formulation of polymer resins, curable and non-curable polymer additives and a blend of Si elements designed to provide a crosslinking bond with any gloss painted surface. It is extremely hydrophobic, glossy and provides a finish that is slick to the touch. Two sprays will roughly be enough to spread over half a bonnet size and still remove without any additional effort. If over applied, Voodoo 2.0 will smear and continue to move around the panel proving difficult to remove. It is very important not to use this product on hot panels or in direct sunlight, if you do use it this way you take risk of the product not curing correctly and ‘smearing’ around the surface without actually curing and buffing clear.
Lotus is a spray and wipe exterior hydrophobic glass coating with added cleaning abilities. It can be used in the same way as Clarity to cleanse whilst also adding a layer of protection to aid visibility when driving in poor weather conditions. To use simply spray into a clean dedicated glass cloth and move the product around the surface, allow it to haze and cure then buff. Another way to use Lotus is to apply it liberally with a cotton pad or applicator in small circular overlapping movements, cover the glass completely, allow it to cure for approxi-mately five minutes and buff off remaining residue with a microfibre or dedicated glass cloth, similar to how you would apply a wax or paint sealant. Applying it in this manner will increase durability and hydrophobic qualities.
Wheel Armour is a product that was designed as a spray and wipe sealant dedicated for wheels. It is a non dilutable, ready to use product that is very easy to use. It is ideally to be used on washed/ clean wheels as a last step product. Its predominant attributes are hydrophobicity and longevity but it should be noted that it also contains a wax additive to aid gloss and depth of colour. Whilst primarily designed as a spray and wipe sealant it is interesting to know that it is concentrated enough to be used as a spray and rinse sealant if time is short. Wheel armour is safe to use on any painted finish which also means it makes a great sealant to use on the rest of your car.