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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Paint sealants

Greg Zyla King Features Syndicate

A car’s paint finish is susceptible to deterioration without proper protection. There are two forms of protection: waxes and paint sealants. Waxes are the traditional, natural, time-tested form of protection for cars; paint sealants are newer — chemically formulated to do the same thing as a wax.

What’s the difference? Waxes, some say, produce an enviable deep, wet, healthy shine that you can’t attain with a sealant. However, waxes have a melting point that is easily reached in very warm climates, have limited longevity (eight to 12 weeks) and are typically more difficult to apply and buff off than paint sealants. Paint sealants are formulated to mimic the level of depth and wetness that a good wax produces, but just a select few can even come close. On the other hand, today’s paint sealants last six to eight months! Sealants also will not melt, wash off or wear away.

If you demand the best look, go with a high-quality pure Carnauba wax. If you’re after long-lasting protection, go with one of the latest paint sealants.