Car sealing - protection & shine for the paintwork

Paint sealing is the most important step in protecting vehicle paintwork in the long term. Environmental influences such as UV radiation, acid rain, road salt, insect residue or bird droppings continuously attack the paintwork. A high-quality vehicle sealant forms a protective barrier on the surface that protects the paintwork from these stresses.

In addition, a sealant provides an intense shine, a smooth surface and a beading effect (hydrophobicity) that makes cleaning easier. The paintwork stays clean for longer, is more resistant to micro-scratches and retains its color intensity. If you seal your car properly, you are investing in value retention, appearance and ease of care.

It's not just the paintwork that benefits from sealing - many areas of the vehicle can be protected:

• Paint surfaces: Classic paint sealing or ceramic sealing
• Wheel rims: Protection against brake dust and road dirt
• Windows & glass surfaces: Glass sealing for better visibility in the rain
• Plastic and rubber parts: Color refreshment and protection against fading
• Headlights: protection against yellowing and UV damage
• Interior surfaces: Sealing leather, plastic or textiles against soiling

You can achieve optimum sealing results with the following products:

1. paint sealants

• Wax sealant: Classic, easy to apply, with good gloss - durability: Weeks to a few months.
• Synthetic sealant: Longer lasting, more chemically resistant - Durability: several months.
• Ceramic sealant (SiO₂-based): High-performance sealant with extreme durability (up to 2 years), very resistant.

2. preparation products

• Paint cleaner or IPA (isopropanol): Removes residues and degreases the surface.
• Polish: Optional, to remove scratches and smooth the surface before sealing.

3. accessories

• Applicator pads: For even application of the sealant.
• Microfiber cloths: For removing residues.
• Protective gloves: Especially recommended for ceramic sealers.

With these products, you can achieve a professional result - from glossy paintwork to long-lasting protection.

These are the most important steps to sealing a vehicle perfectly:

Step 1: Wash the vehicle thoroughly

Use the two-bucket method with pH-neutral car shampoo. Remove coarse dirt, insect residue and rim dirt.

Step 2: Prepare the paintwork

• Knead: Remove deep-seated residues with cleaning putty.
• Polishing (optional): Remove small scratches and swirls.
• Degreasing: Use IPA or paint cleaner to clean the surface without leaving any residue.

Step 3: Apply sealant

• Apply evenly with an applicator pad (in small sections depending on the product).
• Observe exposure time (manufacturer's instructions).
• Polish with a microfiber cloth until no more residue is visible.

Step 4: Observe curing time

• Do not wash the vehicle or expose it to moisture for 12-24 hours (up to 48 hours for ceramic sealant).

How long does a paint sealant last?

• Wax: 4-8 weeks
• Synthetic sealants: 3-6 months
• Ceramic sealant: 12-24 months

Which is better - wax or ceramic sealant?

Wax is easier to apply but offers shorter protection. Ceramic sealants are much longer lasting, harder and offer better protection - but require more preparation and care.

Do I need to polish before sealing?

Not absolutely, but recommended. A polish removes scratches and ensures a smooth surface - this improves the adhesion and appearance of the sealant.

Can a car also be sealed in winter?

Yes, as long as the ambient temperature is right (usually >10 °C) and the vehicle remains dry. Especially in winter, a sealant provides effective protection against salt and moisture.

How can you tell if the sealant is still effective?

A simple water test shows it: If water beads up and forms droplets, the sealant is still active. If the water remains flat, it should be resealed.