Do you have to wait to wax new paint?

[atikovi]

Just had a bumper painted and remember years ago you have to wait a few months before waxing so the finish would cure properly. Does that still apply? I'm sure they compounded and buffed it because water beads nicely.

[larry0071]

Yes, 30-60 day period for reducers to escape. I'm in the same boat currently with my car, New fender installed a week ago.

You can put show car glaze over it while you're waiting. The glaze will live a couple weeks in the paint and offer mild protection and a wet/glossy shine.

[mis3]

Re: Do you have to wait to wax new paint?

I was in your exact position a few years ago and instead of waiting 90 days, I gave up after 60 days. All I did to the newly-painted panels was to wash often. I just repainted my alloy wheels and I would do the same; wait 60 days before I wax them.

I see many paint jobs failed after a few months or 1-2 years and I am sure that they failed because of waxing too soon. The problem is many body shop people tell their customers they can wax the panels after a few days. While these guys know how to make the cars look great, they have no idea of the de-gassing process.

[atikovi]

Re: Do you have to wait to wax new paint?

So what is different between wax and the buffing compounds they use at the body shop after painting? Does the compound just sand the paint smooth but doesn't seal it like the wax? Then why does the bumper bead water like wax does?

[mis3]

Re: Do you have to wait to wax new paint?

The whole idea is wax seals the surface so the thinning agents cannot escape.

[larry0071]

So what is different between wax and the buffing compounds they use at the body shop after painting? Does the compound just sand the paint smooth but doesn't seal it like the wax? Then why does the bumper bead water like wax does?

Compounds have no Wax/sealant (typically).

Yes, the compound has a carrier (lubrication/encapsulation) with the working product being the abrasives. Think liquid based sand paper on a micro scale.

Not sure what your asking about a bumper? Was it just painted? If so, it likely has been topped with a glaze, similar to Meguiars show car glaze. That will provide some protection and bead water for a week or two... Maybe a bit more.

[mis3]

Re: Do you have to wait to wax new paint?

I read that you can use Cleaner or Polish for the newly painted panels.
I would not take a chance because both cleaning (using a paint cleaner) and polishing involve rubbing which would disturb the new paint.