Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

[badcarma58]

I have a center console that I just got done polishing.

It doesn't look as good as I thought it would. Seems a little spotty. I used a polish with PTEF in it.

Do I need to wax first, then polish later? Or, should I put some wax on top of the polish already applied?

The bottom isn't painted either. I had to use muriatic acid to get bottom clean. I was going to wax the bottom next. Any thoughts on that?

Any advice is appreciated.

 

[magster65]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

My last boat (pictured) was black so everything had to be just right... cut polish (if needed), fine polish, (if it's black then a swirl remover) and then wax to keep it shiny. Polishes have a grit or chemical for addressing flaws and cleaning and wax is the 'sealer' and therefor always last. I always use Macguiars products... I don't know if they're the best but I like them.
Another consideration; our (new to us) boat I just waxed with a one-step 'cleaner wax' and I'm very happy with the results... mind you it's white and white is very forgiving.
Be sure the gelcoat is clean and remove as much 'old wax' as you can before you start. Hot water and dish soap works ok.
A quality polisher will improve your results too. I have a Makita and it's great!

 

[doyall]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

I was led to believe that polishing was to clean and prepare the surface for a protective waxing. However, it might be that waxing a teflon (PTEF) coating is an exercise in futility. Some also say that waxing the bottom is a similar exercise, but I do mine nonetheless. I perceive that it helps me to keep lake scum cleaned off. I do not boat in salt.

 

[badcarma58]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

My boat is white. I will try a Cleaner Wax combo and see what it does.

I am waxing the bottome because Im sure the acid wash damaged the gellcoat somewhat. How could it not? Different advice received about acid washing a bottom, is that you should wash and wax afterward to put a layer of protection back onto bottom. Plus, from what I've seen in friends boats, waxing the bottom seems to help with excess marine growth and make easier cleaning also.

Thanks for advice.

 

[ricohman]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

On my black boat I use Mothers clear coat polish as its pretty gentle. Then I seal it with 3M Marine wax.

 

[magster65]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

oops

 

[magster65]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

My boat is white. I will try a Cleaner Wax combo and see what it does.

I am waxing the bottome because Im sure the acid wash damaged the gellcoat somewhat. How could it not? Different advice received about acid washing a bottom, is that you should wash and wax afterward to put a layer of protection back onto bottom. Plus, from what I've seen in friends boats, waxing the bottom seems to help with excess marine growth and make easier cleaning also.

Thanks for advice.

Yes. Acid washes leave marks if they're allowed to dry. Sometimes the best way to get rid of the spots is to carefully scrub the area with the acid (diluted) again but hose it off before it dries. Don't buy expensive bottom cleaners, buy cheap muriatic acid (brick cleaner / concrete wash) and dilute it about 50%... same stuff. Watch the fumes. You may be stuck cut polishing whatever marks are left.
Almost everyone uses bottom paint around here but we're in the salt.
Cheers,
John

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

generally here is my waterline up process:

normal - cleaner wax, then wax

mildly oxidized - cutting compound, cleaner wax, then wax

highly oxidized - wet sand, cutting compound, cleaner wax, then wax

waterline down varies from boat to boat, however any acid washing is usually preceded with barnacle scraping and pressure washing, then a scuff and re-paint of bottom paint. However with a non-painted hull, I would probably go to a cutting compound, cleaner wax, and a few applications of wax.

 

[Taxus812]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

Try Buff magic. You just apply with a paint brush then run a hand held buffer until shiny. The compound breaks down to a finer and finer grit as you buff it. When happy wipe off with a clean cloth then follow up with a polish. I had great results once I learned how to use it.

Buff Magic
Shurhold Buff Magic Fiberglass Reconditioner & Metal Polish - 22 oz. YBP-0101 - iboats

Polish:
Premium Fiberglass Sealant PRO POLISH, 16 OZ BOTTLE. - Yacht Brite YBP0202 - iboats

Be careful of some of the auto spray waxes (turtle wax for example) they can turn your white gelcoat a green hue .

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Polish then Wax or Wax then Polish ???

I just use the 3M Cleaner/Wax all-in-one. As was mentioned, polishes generally contain a light grit in them to smooth surfaces, waxes are more of a protecting coat which gives the glossy finish.