Why use tape when buffing?

[Shack]

Is the purpose of using tape around trim to protect the trim, and/or allow you to get right up next to the trim with your buffer? Both? What other purpose? I did have a hard time buffing in small spaces (between 2 pieces of trim), as well as a difficult time getting swirls and scratches out that were right next to trim. Any other suggestions? I'm using the Meg DA polisher with 7" pads. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[SX4DUDE2013]

Re: Why use tape when buffing?

the main purpose of using tape in trim (espically black) is to keep it from discoloring. When waxes/sealents/compunds adher to trim it will tend to leave a white residue...and i guess to protect it as well...i usually dont tape up...just try to be careful...

[davey g-force]

Re: Why use tape when buffing?

The tape protects the trim from being marked / disclolored / marred by polishes and waxes.

I personally haven't had a problem with wax on my trims - it just buffs off and if anything, leaves the trim looking slightly better. I did however make the mistake (just once) of not taping up trim when machine polishing and I lived to regret it.

For those tight spots between trim, perhaps you should try a 4 inch pad. Either that or do the tight bits by hand. You should still tape up if polishing though...

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Why use tape when buffing?

Taping is done for a variety of reasons:

• It helps prevent getting compounds/cleaner/polishes/waxes onto trim that might stain
• The above also makes clean up a bit faster and easier
• It helps prevent a build up these products in crevices/cracks/gaps
• Wider tape is used to cover grilles and other openings so that a rotary buffer won't splatter product into them
• Taping off certain pieces of metal trim can save the pad from getting ripped up by the trim
• Tape can protect delicate trim from potential damage inflicted by a rotary, especially when using a foam cutting pad at fairly high speed
• When panel gaps are uneven tape can protect the higher adjacent panel from getting damaged by a rotary (the paint on the edge of a panel is thinner than on the face of the panel itself and is therefore more prone to burn through)

Some of the above applies only to the rotary, primarily those regarding trim protection, but for clean up and pad safety most apply to the D/A as well.

[J. A. Michaels]

Re: Why use tape when buffing?

I like to tape just because it makes cleanup easier and faster.

I am dog tired when I am done detailing a vehicle. The last thing I want to do is try to get off any polish/wax residue. Remove the tape and you are done. lol

[Shack]

Re: Why use tape when buffing?

Well thanks to all replies - Mr. Stoops included, as well as Mr. Michaels. As always, good to hear the professionals chime in. I appreciate the feedback.

Friday is ALMOST here............ Enjoy the weekend everyone!