How to Buff Clear Coat

Wait a day or so to let the clear harden if the finishing is new., Get a buffer., Use a product such as 3M Micro-finish which can be purchased at automotive paint stores. , Apply to an area no more than two feet square at a time., Experiment with...

9 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Wait a day or so to let the clear harden if the finishing is new.

    At this point, if you see "orange peel" or "trash" on the surface, wet sand with 1000 or 1200 grit wet or dry automotive grade sandpaper.

    This will smooth out the surface and allow for a super shine finish.
  2. Step 2: Get a buffer.

    A variable speed buffer with a lambs wool pad will be necessary to do a nice job.

    Single speed buffers are not recommend because of the increased chance of burning the finish down to the color coat. ,,  Keep the buffer moving and watch how the finish is changing to a high gloss.  , Don't overdo it. ,, This may be terry cloth or foam. , You can run the buffer at a higher speed for this step.  If there are swirl marks remaining on the finish you can also purchase a swirl mark remover.

    This will give you a professional high gloss finish.
  3. Step 3: Use a product such as 3M Micro-finish which can be purchased at automotive paint stores.

  4. Step 4: Apply to an area no more than two feet square at a time.

  5. Step 5: Experiment with the speed to achieve the best results.

  6. Step 6: Wipe off any residue on the surface after compounding the area.

  7. Step 7: Replace the lambs wool buffing pad with a polishing pad.

  8. Step 8: Apply a high quality liquid or paste wax and again

  9. Step 9: in a small area buff until you are satisfied with the results.

Detailed Guide

At this point, if you see "orange peel" or "trash" on the surface, wet sand with 1000 or 1200 grit wet or dry automotive grade sandpaper.

This will smooth out the surface and allow for a super shine finish.

A variable speed buffer with a lambs wool pad will be necessary to do a nice job.

Single speed buffers are not recommend because of the increased chance of burning the finish down to the color coat. ,,  Keep the buffer moving and watch how the finish is changing to a high gloss.  , Don't overdo it. ,, This may be terry cloth or foam. , You can run the buffer at a higher speed for this step.  If there are swirl marks remaining on the finish you can also purchase a swirl mark remover.

This will give you a professional high gloss finish.

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