More and more people are paint-protecting their new cars these days not only for the eventual higher resale value they may get for their car, but also for the sheer good looks paint-protection gives the car. And such car-owners are paint-protecting the cars themselves to save on labor or professional fees, have some fun doing the thing, and mostly because such work is very simple to do personally, even for an unhandy man like most of us.
Usually, paint-protection solutions are applied in two coatings: the first to remove dirt, grime, dust, and others from the paint surface, as well as seal the paint's microscopic cracks mainly due to the sun's heat and ultraviolet rays. The second coating applies the film of protection to the paint.
Most do-it-yourself kits sold in car shops and supermarkets come complete with manuals that detail application methods, while the cans or bottles themselves have the manufacturer's instructions printed on them. So there is little chance of anyone making a mess of it, as long as he can read the instructions.
On top of that, a car owner who is serious in applying paint protection solutions himself can surf the Internet to find tips and answers to whatever questions he might have. The first resources will be the manufacturers' sites, and second will be forums and blogs on the topic. There are probably video instructions and at least downloadable instructions to help the aspiring DIY car owner.
Failing them, following are some tips on how to paint-protect your car more easily:
a. Washing your car may be unnecessary when using certain kinds of paint-protection solutions, although it may be preferable or better. Most first applications take care of removing dirt, dust and grime off the paint, even those embedded into the wax layers. Simply wiping the paint with a wet rag is a lot easier and time-conserving.
b. Paint protection is not needed on all parts of the car, just the painted parts. The solution will have minimal effect, for example, on chrome and very little on windows and windshields depending on the brands. Take precautions on the window rims by covering them with plastic adhesive tape to protect them from the solution's effects.
c. Different solutions produce different effects. One make may not be the correct application to a particular part, such as windshield or window. The solution used for painted surfaces will not be effective in them, so carefully read the manual, accompanying literature, or instructions. However, tinted sealants are best for windshields and windows, as they are usually anti-UV also.
d. In many cases though, paint protectors can be used as fabric or vinyl upholstery protectors also. Many kinds double-function as such. Whatever you do, remember to carefully read and understand the instructions prior to actually doing it. It will be easier, simpler and more fun. Their are so many type of products on the market a tip would be to call up someone who does it professionally and ask them what they use if you go down the DIY path.