Polishing or coating: what is the difference?
Your car no longer shines like it used to. In the sun you see fine scratches and swirl marks in the paint, and dirt sticks more quickly. Should you have it polished or coated? The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they do very different things. In this article, XCS Automotive in Merchtem explains the difference, and why the two treatments together often give the best result.
How does paint get damaged?
Your car's paint usually consists of several layers, with a clear coat on top that protects the colour layer. That clear coat takes a beating every day:
- Washing with dirty sponges or brushes leaves fine scratches and swirl marks.
- Bird droppings, insects and tree sap can damage the paint if they stay on for long.
- Sun and weather dull the paint.
- Road salt, dirt and stone chips leave their mark.
What is polishing?
When polishing, a very thin layer of the clear coat is removed with a polishing machine and polishing compound. Light scratches, swirl marks and dull areas disappear or are reduced. The paint becomes smooth again and therefore reflects light better. The result: a deeper shine and a fresher colour.
Polishing is therefore a correction. It restores the paint but does not protect it. Over time, use and washing create new scratches.
What polishing cannot do
Deep scratches that go through the clear coat into the colour layer or down to the metal cannot be polished out. That needs a paint repair. Stone chips and dents cannot be fixed by polishing either. For damage repair we work with Carrosserie Bury.
What is coating?
A coating is a protective layer applied to the paint. A nano-ceramic coating bonds to the paint and forms a hard, smooth layer. This layer makes the paint shine and means dirt sticks less. Water beads off, and cleaning becomes easier.
A coating is therefore protection. It does not repair scratches. Applying a coating to paint full of swirl marks seals those marks under the protective layer.
Why often both?
That is why polishing and coating are often combined. First the paint is thoroughly cleaned and polished, so light scratches disappear and the shine returns. Then the coating is applied to protect that result. In short: polishing removes light scratches and restores the shine, a coating protects the result and makes cleaning easier.
Wax, sealant or coating?
Besides coatings there are also waxes and sealants. These also give shine and a protective layer, but that layer is usually less durable than a coating and needs to be reapplied more often. A coating requires more preparation but offers longer protection. Exactly how long depends on the product, use and care.
Which is right for whom?
- Polishing: your paint is dull or shows light scratches and swirl marks, and you want the shine back. Also worthwhile before you sell a car.
- Coating: your paint is in good condition or freshly polished, and you want to protect it and make it easier to maintain.
- Both: you want the best result and to keep the shine as long as possible. Ideal for a new or recently bought car, or an exclusive car.
After the treatment: how to care for your paint
- Wash your car by hand, with a soft wash mitt and two buckets: one with soapy water and one with clean water to rinse the mitt.
- Use a mild car shampoo.
- Dry with a soft microfibre cloth.
- Remove bird droppings and insects as quickly as possible.
- Avoid brushes that cause scratches.
Detailing at XCS
We bring your car back to showroom condition, exclusively in cooperation with professional detailers. We offer polishing and minor paint correction, as well as a full nano-ceramic coating. The price depends on your vehicle, its condition and the chosen treatment. You receive a tailored quote. Read more on our page detailing, coating and wrapping.
Want to sell your car? Well-kept paint makes a better impression on buyers. Also see our page sell your car or consignment sale.
Frequently asked questions
Does a coating remove scratches?
No. A coating protects the paint but does not repair scratches. That requires polishing.
Can every scratch be polished out?
No. Deep scratches into the colour layer or down to the metal need a paint repair.
How much does a coating cost?
The price depends on your vehicle. You receive a tailored quote.
Who carries out the detailing?
We work exclusively with professional detailers.
Have your paint cared for?
Book your appointment online via make an appointment or call Jorne on 0471 46 40 17 or Quinten on 0470 56 61 21. You will find us at Stoofstraat 43 in Merchtem, open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm and on Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Anywhere in Merchtem, we collect your car and bring it back free of charge.