What is the difference between coating agent and waxing?
2 Answers
The differences between coating agent and waxing are: Different compositions: Car wax mainly derives from petroleum, being polyethylene emulsion or silicone-based high-molecular compounds, which are oxides. Coating agents mostly contain inorganic silicon, with some exceptions being organic. Different hardness: The coating can form an inorganic glass layer on the surface, which is harder than the wax layer. The wax layer, being an oxide, is prone to oxidation and typically lasts only about a month. In contrast, the coating is inorganic, less prone to oxidation, and can generally last about half a year. Different prices: The price range for coatings is relatively wide, while waxing is cheaper. Different application processes: Waxing is simple to perform and can be done by oneself. Coating requires higher technical skills and environmental conditions from the applicator, and the application time is longer, usually taking 3-6 hours. Coating involves polishing the car paint before applying a high-grade wax to form a film. Spraying coating agent does not harm the car; it helps prevent aging and oxidation of the car paint. Waxing, on the other hand, involves applying a protective wax to the car's surface and then polishing it to a shine, representing the traditional first-generation car paint beauty solution. Frequent waxing can affect the car paint. Automotive coating projects literally mean applying a protective film on the car paint, emphasizing protection. Unlike car wax, the molecular structure of coating agents is smaller, allowing them to form a stronger and more durable film on the car's surface. It not only resists being washed away by rain but also protects against UV rays, acid rain, industrial dust, and other natural environmental damages, preventing the car paint from discoloring. Additionally, after coating treatment, the car not only enhances the glossiness of the paint but also forms a significant water-repellent effect on the surface, turning rainwater into droplets. It is particularly convenient to use: simply clean the paint, wipe off the moisture, spray the coating agent onto the paint, and immediately wipe it with a microfiber cloth until the spray disappears, completing the coating process. Automotive coatings can increase the surface hardness of the car paint and firmly bond with it, reasonably reducing the formation of scratches and better protecting the paint from external corrosion, providing a sealed protective effect. After fluorine treatment, the surface of automotive coatings becomes super water-repellent. When water falls on the car's surface, it contracts into droplets like on a lotus leaf, preventing dirt formation and environmental pollution of the paint. Made from glass crystals, automotive coatings can effectively reflect sunlight and radiation during hot summers, ensuring heat resistance and preventing high temperatures from damaging the car paint.
Coating agents and waxing are both methods to protect car paint, but they differ significantly. A coating agent is a chemical layer that acts like a tough protective film over the car body, resisting UV rays, acid rain, and scratches, with effects lasting from several months to over a year, requiring minimal maintenance. Waxing involves applying a wax block or liquid to form a temporary protective layer, offering good shine but being easily washed away by rain, necessitating reapplication every 1-2 months. Through repeated use, I've found that coating agents are more expensive and may require professional application, but they offer long-term convenience. Waxing is cheaper and easier for DIY, suitable for routine maintenance, though it lacks durability. If you live in a rainy area, a coating agent provides better water resistance, preventing paint aging, while waxing is more suitable for budget-conscious car owners.