waxing with da vs. by hand

[VSUScotty]

Novice question, and I apologize if this is already covered somewhere else.

What are the advantages of waxing with a da rather than by hand?

I understand the advantage to the machine when compounding and polishing but am curious if there's any difference or if it's mostly preference.

[C8N]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

Personally, I get a better thin and uniform layer of wax with a DA.
When I wax by hand, I tend to blob.

[jfelbab]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

I rather do it by hand if I'm only working on one car. My cars have too many areas that a pad just doesn't get into well. It's also like a form of relaxation therapy for me.

[dm1179]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

DA polisher - increased speed, reduced effort, apply product in a more uniform manner
By hand - you can get as detailed as you want specially on corners and edges

If you need to wax more than one car, then DA polisher would save you time.

[Jarhead0754]

I like both. I use a da and for the hard to reach areas such as under my spoiler, or the door handles I follow up with a paste wax by hand. Basically I use the da for the whole car, then quickly follow with the paste, and by that time it's ready to wipe off.

[wifpd4]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

Agree with most comment given. Arthritis makes a DA faster and more enjoyable. Generally use liquid Ultimate Wax and "thin to win" is easier for me with a DA.

[Sleper]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

I use a machine as well as it does give a thin coverage and I think I get better overall coverage and is easier on the arm. I take off by hand. My $0.02

[ajb39oh]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

I like both. I use a da and for the hard to reach areas such as under my spoiler, or the door handles I follow up with a paste wax by hand. Basically I use the da for the whole car, then quickly follow with the paste, and by that time it's ready to wipe off.

Thats how I do it.

[The Guz]

Re: waxing with da vs. by hand

I use a 4" pad on a DA to apply a paste or a liquid. Gets into those smaller areas. There are still some areas that I do by hand. Applying by DA gives a more uniform application and of course a thing application.