Do You Know the Difference Between Glaze and Wax for Professional Automotive Detailing?
When it comes to professional auto detailing, there can be a great degree of confusion amongst the car-owning public regarding different treatments, and what they consist of.
It’s true that different auto detailing treatments, including glazing and waxing, are ultimately methods to ensure a vehicle looks better, but the process and effect of each differ quite a bit. The results of glazing and waxing differ wildly—differences that students become well versed in as they prepare for careers in auto detailing.
Defining the Difference Between Glaze and Wax
Glazing and waxing are two commonly confused processes. Essentially, a glaze is a substance that is applied to the surface of a vehicle in order to fill and obscure any small imperfections or scratches that are visible. Applying a glaze to a vehicle’s surface makes it appear shinier and more vivid. Used in isolation, however, a paint glaze is only a short-term treatment and is easily removed by any prolonged exposure to the elements. Importantly, it also does not provide any additional protection to the paintwork.
By contrast, a wax is a layer of oil-heavy product that is applied to the vehicle surface after polishing and glazing. Wax acts as a protective coating. It actively shields the vehicle’s surface while providing a slick, “wet” look upon application. Typically, a properly applied wax will last for several months and can withstand extended exposure to the elements.
Why Glazing and Waxing Treatments Aren’t Often Recommended on Their Own
Glazing and waxing treatments, while distinct, work best in unison or in combination with other treatments to provide the best look and protection for a vehicle. The differences between these treatments will be apparent to any user who undergoes these processes in isolation. This can often occur when a customer insists on a specific treatment from a business offering professional automotive detailing, and is surprised to find their vehicle looking quite different from what they expected.
For example, applying a wax finish to a surface will provide a consistent layer of protection, but will also essentially seal in any flaws already visible on the vehicle’s surface. Simply glazing the vehicle, on the other hand, will result in a more attractive look, but this will not last for any considerable period of time without a wax added on as a protective coating.
If during your career as an auto detailer you encounter clients who ask for only one treatment, it might be a good idea to explain the benefits of both glazing and waxing. Open communication can help clear up any misconceptions, so that none of your future clients wind up feeling disappointed.
A Complete Professional Automotive Detailing Job Means Polish, Glaze, Wax, and More!
Learn auto detailing and you’ll soon have the in-depth knowledge and hands-on skills you’ll need to get vehicles looking in tip top shape again. While glazing and waxing can work well together, a complete treatment includes a little more than just those two options.
Often recommended for a customer who wishes to retain or regain the “new car look” of their vehicle, a more complete service consists of a professionally delivered polish (which gently smooths away imperfections from the paint coat), followed by a comprehensive glaze and finally a waxing. In addition, you might also want to recommend that clients opt for other detailing services like a vacuum and shampoo of the interior of their car. By combining services, you’ll be able to keep customers coming back throughout your detailing career!
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