Wax and Cleaning Products
With the popularity of full-body painted RV’s today, the topic of waxing these surfaces is being revisited. Many of the cleaning products that worked well years ago on unpainted gelcoat may not be the right treatment for the full painted skin. Power wheel compound applications buff out oxidization on gelcoat. However, clear coat finishes on many newer coaches will be stripped off in time if abrasive compounds or like products and techniques are used.
Two Schools of Thought
There are two schools of thought here: one believing in the need to wax while the other perhaps not.
In fact, when you look at some of the high-quality multi-layered clear-coat finishes, standard waxing may be the last thing you want to do. Regular washing, a liquid polishing treatment and a good paint sealer might be better. There are many great new products, from wash soaps to protecting paint sealants available today.
On the other hand, there are many that will say the best protection can only be achieved by waxing, adding that it should be done at least twice a year.
Wax vs. Clear Coat
Well, perhaps, if a liquid non-abrasive wax was applied, then this may hold some merit. However, there is no question that continual hard scrubbing will wear away the clear-coat top finish. This does not mean the paint will not look shiny and new. However, it may need continued waxing in the future to maintain that look. Whereas the original clear-coat finish may retain its natural gloss with just a thorough washing and a regular sealant application regime.
So Which Is It?
So, what’s best for your rig? Well, it depends on the surface type: gelcoat, paint, decal or paint with clear coat. And it may also depend on who you ask!
The old phrase “Wax on, wax off!” may not be that simple today. What are your thoughts?
Peter Mercer – To Wax or Not To Wax