What are High Spots?
Joe Senior working on a client’s car
“High Spots,” What are they?
In the world of professional car detailing, "high spots" refer to areas where an excessive amount of wax, sealant, or polish remains on the vehicle's paint surface after application and buffing. These spots are characterized by a concentrated buildup of product, creating a visible difference in gloss and texture compared to the surrounding areas. High spots often occur due to uneven application, applying too much product, or insufficient buffing to remove the excess.
High spots are best explained on the IGL Coating website
High spots are a result of un-leveled ceramic coating which has cured or is in the curing stage. One of the key factors contributing to high spots is poor buffing technique or inadequate leveling. Most ceramic coatings need buffing of or leveling, even consumer grade coatings.
Causes of High Spots
Several factors can contribute to the formation of high spots. One common cause is applying an excessive amount of wax or sealant to the applicator pad, leading to an uneven distribution on the paint. Improper application techniques, such as failing to work the product thoroughly into the surface or using inconsistent pressure, can also result in product buildup. Environmental conditions play a role as well; applying products in extreme temperatures or high humidity can affect their consistency and make them more difficult to buff off evenly. Additionally, the type of applicator pad used can influence the likelihood of high spots. Some pads may absorb and release products differently, requiring more attention to ensure even coverage.
How to Identify High Spots
Identifying high spots often requires a keen eye and attention to detail. They typically appear as hazy or cloudy patches on the paint surface, differing in gloss and clarity from the surrounding areas. On darker colored vehicles, high spots may be more noticeable as a smearing or streaking effect, while on lighter colors, they might present as a dullness or lack of depth. Feeling the surface can also help; high spots may have a slightly tacky or textured feel compared to the smooth, clean paint. The best way to reveal high spots is to inspect the paint under various lighting conditions, especially indirect sunlight or with a detailing light, as these angles will accentuate any unevenness in the finish.
Correction/Removal Process
Removing high spots requires a careful and methodical approach. For mild cases, often a quick detailer and a clean, soft microfiber towel can be sufficient. Spray a small amount of quick detailer onto the affected area and gently buff away the excess product using short, circular motions. It's crucial to use a high-quality microfiber towel to avoid scratching the paint. For more severe high spots, or those that have been left for an extended period, a light polish may be necessary. Apply a small amount of polish to a foam polishing pad and work it over the high spot using light pressure. Follow up with a clean microfiber towel to remove any polish residue and restore the paint's gloss. In some cases, you may need to repeat the process.
Prevention Tips
Preventing high spots is always preferable to correcting them. The key is to use the correct amount of product – less is often more. Apply wax, sealant, or polish in thin, even layers, working the product into the paint surface thoroughly with an applicator pad. Avoid applying excessive pressure, and ensure consistent coverage. When buffing off the product, use clean, high-quality microfiber towels, folding them frequently to expose a fresh surface. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, check your work under various lighting conditions as you go. This will allow you to spot and correct any high spots before they fully set.
Summary
High spots, while a common detailing issue, can be effectively prevented and corrected with the right knowledge and techniques. By understanding what they are, what causes them, and how to address them, you can achieve a flawless finish on your vehicle. Remember, proper application, careful removal, and attention to detail are paramount. For more advanced detailing tips or to learn about our professional paint correction services, please visit our Ceramic Coating page.