Paste wax vs Liquid Wax

[305Supercharged]

Hey guys..did some forum searching but couldn't find any answers.

I can't remember the last time my car was detailed. I'm hoping by next week to give it a nice wash and detail but I had some people tell me that one type is better than the other and vice versa.

Would appreciate any recommendations or info with any experience that you've had with either.

Thanks!

[AVier]

For the most part it I don't think it really matters; the quality of the wax itself is key. I've had good luck with both. Liquid wax is easier to apply with a machine and paste wax is generally better done by hand.

[helix139]

When it comes to carnauba waxes, carnauba in its native state is very hard. Solvents and chemicals are added to soften it to the form you see in a liquid or a paste. The difference is the amount of the solvents. When you apply to the car, the reason you let it cure is so that those solvents and chemicals can evaporate, which hardens the wax, which is then removed by hand.

[TOGWT]

Wax consistency is formulated to suit different application methods; i.e. hand (literally) or foam applicator, the finished ‘look’ will be the same for either method.
Either way it’s important to apply a consistent thin layer, which may be more difficult with hand application. A machine application will provide a thin even coating as the pressure maintained on the foam is constant. The liquid application is more popular among users because it is considerably easier to work with.

This is personal preference. Both will give you very similar shine and protection, there is a direct correlation between difficulty of job and durability.
The hard paste is harder to work with, whereas a ‘soft’ paste wax is considerably easier, but the protection in terms of length of durability is superior. Liquid wax due to its higher solvent and / or polymer content has a more reflective (wetter) look than hard wax, whereas a hard wax is slightly more durable due to its higher wax content

They differ basically in the amount of solvents, oils and etc. Carnauba is diluted with solvents, when you apply a paste wax, the friction (heat) helps melt the wax and evaporate the solvents. A liquid wax usually contains more volatile solvents that evaporate out when the wax is applied. The excess wax, left over lubricants, excess bonding agents, solvent residues and whatever else is left forms the "haze" that is buffed out to reveal the wax.



If your really interested in the “How” and the “Why” of detailing wax these articles may be of some interest-

Organic Wax; It’s Origins - http://www.autopia.org/forum/guide-detailing/136858-organic-wax-%3B-%92s-origins.html

“Carnauba wax” - http://www.autopia.org/forum/autopia-detailing-wiki/138969-carnauba-wax-part-i.html#post1476919

[305Supercharged]

Thanks all!