How To Get The Most From A Hard Wax

Proper Waxing Techniques Will Always Make A Noticeable Difference

Waxes are a classic choice for summer car detailing, and we’re sure you already know they deliver a stunning finish. We believe nothing enhances a car’s appearance quite like a wax, especially when it’s time for a show. A deep, glossy finish, impressive water beading, and lasting protection make investing in a top-quality wax an easy decision.

This is likely why our Signature Wax Collection is more popular than ever. However, you'd be surprised at how often people apply wax in a way that doesn’t maximize its potential—ultimately wasting your investment.

The truth is, waxes create a fantastic finish, but with the right application techniques, they can look even better. Proper waxing makes all the difference, so here are some tips and tricks to ensure you get the most out of your wax...

Don't Forget To Cleanse Your Paintwork Before Waxing

Even after thoroughly washing and decontaminating your paintwork, it's crucial to cleanse each panel before applying wax. Proper surface preparation is key to achieving the best possible result from your wax application. Wax serves as a protective layer that enhances the optical finish, providing a deep, glossy look. What truly matters is ensuring your paintwork is in its best possible condition before adding any wax.

A small amount of Rejuvenate, our glaze-based pre-wax paintwork cleanser, will not only prepare the surface, providing the perfect foundation for wax to bond and enhancing the longevity of your protection, but it also contains cleansing solvents, glazing oils, and light abrasives that remove even the most stubborn, ingrained contaminants.

Designed specifically to prepare and enhance the application of our Signature Hard Waxes, Rejuvenate also makes an excellent base for Glisten Spray Wax. Apply using a microfibre Polish Pad or Microfibre Applicator, working one panel at a time with light to medium pressure, then buff off with a clean microfibre cloth.

Load your applicator with wax. For our signature waxes, we recommend using a Waxmate XL or Wax Spot Pad (paired with a Handi Puck). Simply dip your applicator into the pot and twist—just a quarter turn should be enough to load the applicator with plenty of wax to cover at least one panel. Keep in mind, a little wax goes a long way; using more than necessary is just wasteful.

Begin with your first panel, applying the wax in small, even circular motions. This technique ensures the best coverage, allowing you to spread the wax as thinly and evenly as possible.

Once you've finished your first panel, proceed directly to the second. This allows the wax on the first panel to bond properly. Keep in mind the curing times for different waxes—some can be applied to the entire car and buffed off later, while others should be done panel by panel. And above all, avoid waxing in direct sunlight.

Next, apply the wax to the third panel and then move back to buff off the second. Continue this "leapfrogging" method around the car. After finishing the second panel, return to the first and buff away any residue, working towards a deep, glossy shine. For best results, we recommend using a Micro Tweed Buffing Towel. The unique pockets in the microfibre tweed fabric are designed to prevent residue from clogging the paintwork, ensuring a flawless finish.

Layering multiple coats of wax will enhance depth, shine, and protection, but it’s essential to let each coat fully cure before applying another. If you don’t allow sufficient time, the results may not be as effective. Be sure to wait at least 3 hours between coats to achieve the best possible enhancement and a noticeable improvement in appearance.