Beautiful leather is synonymous with clean leather and when the leather is looking its best it is a source of tremendous pride for automobile owners. Leather seats are one of the very first things we notice when entering a vehicle and dirty seats not only look bad but it can harm the long term health of the seats. Modern day leather can be comprised from a variety of natural and synthetic materials. Very few vehicles actually use just raw leather and many of them have a coating on them to help protect against wear and tear. All of these material are prone to drying out and breaking down over time so regular maintenance is essential.
The types of leather available in automobiles are usually divided into two important categories.
One process is called “Spray-On” dying, and is used by most American and Japanese manufacturers. Although this process creates a livid, vibrant color, it is not an everlasting achievement. The oils secreted from your skin may cause spray-on leathers to lose their color prematurely, dampening the effect of your lush leather interior. Removing these oils is paramount to leather care, but limiting the amount of bare skin you expose to your seats and interior is a great way to prevent discoloration. Once damage to the extent of cracking has been done to spray on leathers, there is no way to restore them to original factory condition without dying them.
The second process for treating leather is called “Vat-Dying,” and is predominantly seen in European and higher end automobiles. Unlike the spray-on technique, this process penetrates the leather and actually dyes the entire piece, inside and out. While vat-dyed leathers are harder to damage with oils, they are not completely safe from the natural secretions of your body, and should be cared for whenever you notice a build up. Absolutely no smoking should be tolerated in your car. This dangerous habit can do more than burn unsightly holes in your precious leather; the smoke can also cause unnatural yellowing of your ceiling fibers. Another obvious thing to avoid is setting metal items on the seats, such as wallet chains, car keys and zippers. These items all have rigid edges that can cause irrevocable rips and scratches. Use your head and be aware of what comes in contact with your leather to ensure it’s lasting beauty.
Leather surfaces are just like beautiful, delicate skin. Leather must be carefully cleansed before it can be properly conditioned. As leather ages, it loses essential protectants infused into the leather during the manufacturing process. That leaves the leather susceptible to dirt, oils, and UV damage. To keep leather looking and feeling its best, you must first clean it and then replace the lost moisture and protection.
Caring for virtually any type of seat involves the same basic steps which are cleaning, conditioning and protection. Inevitably over time dirt, dust, human oils, etc. work themselves deep in to the seats and can be quite challenging to remove. A good leather cleaner should be able to safely separate those contaminants and help bring them to the surface for removal. A quality leather conditioner can help keep the leather soft and flexible yet strong and durable. Cleaners and conditioners should not leave a glossy or oily finish behind. Some protection from a conditioner can help prevent UV fading while preserving the color and finish for decades to come. With proper care the seats will look and feel outstanding year round while increasing the resale value.
Have you seen leather that has been ignored and mistreated? What remains is dried, prematurely aged, and cracked leather. Without proper care and conditioning your leather will age rapidly, losing its luster and flexibility. This process is rapidly accelerated in warmer climates. Regular cleaning and conditioning is all it takes to keep leather looking fresh, supple, and soft.
If leather is to retain its beauty, it must be cared for, cleaned and conditioned. It’s much easier to spend a little time protecting and conditioning your fine leather upholstery than spending the energy and money to salvage it.
South Central Kentucky
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Thursday, December 13, 2012
The Revolution of Microfiber
Microfiber is causing a stir in the cleaning industry. It is quickly becoming the cleaning and polishing fabric of choice in all facets of auto detailing, from washing and drying to polishing, wax application and removal. But this versatile and highly absorbent material is also replacing traditional cleaning methods in hospitals and universities around the world!
A unique combination of two basic fibers: Polyester and Polyamide (a nylon by-product) are the backbone of microfiber. These are densely constructed fibers 1/16th the size of a human hair. This network of fibers is then woven and manufactured in distinct ways, producing different varieties for a myriad of uses.
Some Microfiber is processed into a “flat” weave. This weave actually repels water and is used in the textile industry to manufacture water resistant items, such as clothing and watchbands. This variety of Microfiber is not of a quality beneficial to cleaning or polishing applications.
In order to be effective for cleaning and polishing usage, the Microfiber must be “split” during processing. This is a costly method of actually splitting the polyester (the scrubbing fiber) from the polymide (the absorbing and quick drying fiber). Remember, if this costly method of “splitting” the fibers is eliminated the resulting product loses over half of its absorbing and cleaning ability!
Once the Microfiber is split the fibers are woven into a fabric, often consisting of 70% to 80% polyester and 20% to 30% polyamide, depending on the desired style of fabric construction. The polyester and polymide are combined during weaving to create thousands of microscopic “Loops”.
These “loops” form a web of hook-like claws that can reach into the tiniest nooks and crannies, scrubbing away dirt and grime while trapping it within the weave. This amazing “loop” is what makes Microfiber the ideal choice for gently buffing dirt particles off delicate glass and paint surfaces, without fear of abrasion.
Denier is the unit used for measuring the fineness of fabric. Microfiber is incredibly fine with a denier of approximately 0.01 to 0.02. Compare that against the denier of a single strand of silk at 8, or a human hair at 20! Now imagine buffing your treasured car with a fabric that is softer than the finest silk!
While it is true that microfiber is among the softest materials ever created by man, it is also incredibly strong. That's because “split” microfibers contain thousands of “loops” per square inch, and high quality microfiber cloths have upwards of 200,000 strands of fiber per square inch of material. This high density of fibers results in a fabric that is durable enough to withstand over 500 washings! Making microfiber extremely cost effective, since it is highly re-usable.
Microfiber actually traps dust and dirt, and can be used with or without chemicals. That is because the filaments are positively charged, while dust and dirt carry a negative charge. A quality microfiber will quite literally pick up all foreign materials! That is great news for allergy sufferers! Used dry, the fibers act like a dust magnet. Used wet, with simply water or a tiny amount of detergent, the fibers become formidable scrubbers, easily tackling the toughest grime.
Recent scientific research studies have revealed some interesting facts about Microfiber. One such study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States was recently released. The EPA found microfibers reduced chemical use and disposal (since they are designed to clean any surface using just plain water!), are less labor intensive, more cost efficient, and clean far more effectively than conventional cleaners.
A study conducted by the prestigious Royal Roads University, in Victoria, British Columbia was impressive. Michael Archibald, Director of the study concluded, “This system is simple, efficient, and effective, and represents the next generation in cleaning systems. Lastly, this system is as effective as cleaning with chemicals.” Strong words from a university that states its goal “is to become a global leader in environmental sustainability through innovative strategies, which foster the protection and preservation of the environment.”
When looking for a Microfiber cloth or towel bear in mind that less density of fiber, translate into less cleaning power and far less durability. The less dense cloths are also more abrasive to delicate surfaces. Look for at least 200,000 fibers per square inch of fabric.
Superior Microfiber cloths and towels rely on this dense weave to achieve greater cleaning results. Cheaper versions of Microfiber can use a weave that is too wide or a pile that is too long, which causes the fibers to break off during use, leaving a lint trail. This is not uncommon practice among manufacturers looking to make a tidy profit while leaving the consumer with a shoddy product.
High quality microfiber is the only material that ever touches my customer paint in the entire process, which includes washing, correction and protection steps.
A unique combination of two basic fibers: Polyester and Polyamide (a nylon by-product) are the backbone of microfiber. These are densely constructed fibers 1/16th the size of a human hair. This network of fibers is then woven and manufactured in distinct ways, producing different varieties for a myriad of uses.
Some Microfiber is processed into a “flat” weave. This weave actually repels water and is used in the textile industry to manufacture water resistant items, such as clothing and watchbands. This variety of Microfiber is not of a quality beneficial to cleaning or polishing applications.
In order to be effective for cleaning and polishing usage, the Microfiber must be “split” during processing. This is a costly method of actually splitting the polyester (the scrubbing fiber) from the polymide (the absorbing and quick drying fiber). Remember, if this costly method of “splitting” the fibers is eliminated the resulting product loses over half of its absorbing and cleaning ability!
Once the Microfiber is split the fibers are woven into a fabric, often consisting of 70% to 80% polyester and 20% to 30% polyamide, depending on the desired style of fabric construction. The polyester and polymide are combined during weaving to create thousands of microscopic “Loops”.
These “loops” form a web of hook-like claws that can reach into the tiniest nooks and crannies, scrubbing away dirt and grime while trapping it within the weave. This amazing “loop” is what makes Microfiber the ideal choice for gently buffing dirt particles off delicate glass and paint surfaces, without fear of abrasion.
Denier is the unit used for measuring the fineness of fabric. Microfiber is incredibly fine with a denier of approximately 0.01 to 0.02. Compare that against the denier of a single strand of silk at 8, or a human hair at 20! Now imagine buffing your treasured car with a fabric that is softer than the finest silk!
While it is true that microfiber is among the softest materials ever created by man, it is also incredibly strong. That's because “split” microfibers contain thousands of “loops” per square inch, and high quality microfiber cloths have upwards of 200,000 strands of fiber per square inch of material. This high density of fibers results in a fabric that is durable enough to withstand over 500 washings! Making microfiber extremely cost effective, since it is highly re-usable.
Microfiber actually traps dust and dirt, and can be used with or without chemicals. That is because the filaments are positively charged, while dust and dirt carry a negative charge. A quality microfiber will quite literally pick up all foreign materials! That is great news for allergy sufferers! Used dry, the fibers act like a dust magnet. Used wet, with simply water or a tiny amount of detergent, the fibers become formidable scrubbers, easily tackling the toughest grime.
Recent scientific research studies have revealed some interesting facts about Microfiber. One such study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States was recently released. The EPA found microfibers reduced chemical use and disposal (since they are designed to clean any surface using just plain water!), are less labor intensive, more cost efficient, and clean far more effectively than conventional cleaners.
A study conducted by the prestigious Royal Roads University, in Victoria, British Columbia was impressive. Michael Archibald, Director of the study concluded, “This system is simple, efficient, and effective, and represents the next generation in cleaning systems. Lastly, this system is as effective as cleaning with chemicals.” Strong words from a university that states its goal “is to become a global leader in environmental sustainability through innovative strategies, which foster the protection and preservation of the environment.”
When looking for a Microfiber cloth or towel bear in mind that less density of fiber, translate into less cleaning power and far less durability. The less dense cloths are also more abrasive to delicate surfaces. Look for at least 200,000 fibers per square inch of fabric.
Superior Microfiber cloths and towels rely on this dense weave to achieve greater cleaning results. Cheaper versions of Microfiber can use a weave that is too wide or a pile that is too long, which causes the fibers to break off during use, leaving a lint trail. This is not uncommon practice among manufacturers looking to make a tidy profit while leaving the consumer with a shoddy product.
High quality microfiber is the only material that ever touches my customer paint in the entire process, which includes washing, correction and protection steps.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Carnauba Car Waxes vs. Paint Sealants
When you have made the decision to wax, you have ascended to a new level of vehicle appreciation. The amazing depth and quality of the reflections displayed by a delicately waxed vehicle is truly a sight to behold.
A car without a fresh coat of car wax is exposed to the brutality of the elements. Exposure to adverse conditions can doom your precious paint to oxidation, scratches, and corrosion.
When it comes to car waxes and sealants there are two main options to choose from, natural carnauba or synthetic polymer. Or for maximum gloss and protection it's best to use both.
Carnauba wax is the preferred car wax of collectors and concours enthusiasts because it creates a rich, warm glow. It doesn’t appear to sit on the paint. It transforms the paint into a deep, liquid pool that shimmers under changing light conditions. The more carnauba wax, the more shine. That's the nice thing about carnauba wax, it can be layered on to add more depth and deep,wet, mirror reflections.
The wax is produced by the Brazilian Tree of Life (Copernica Cerifera), a palm tree, in order to coat its leaves. The wax provides protection from the sweltering sun and because of the natural moisture repellency of the wax the rain water is shed so it falls onto the ground and is absorbed by the tree’s roots. Of course as you know, plants release oxygen through their leaves. For this reason, carnauba wax is breathable. Good for the tree and good for your paint.
Carnauba is hard as brick in it's natural form. When the leaves of the Tree of Life are harvested, the wax flakes off as the leaves dry out, or they are put into a machine that removes the wax. It comes off in hard flakes. Car Wax makers have to blend the wax with oils, petroleum distillates, or a solvent called naptha (commonly used to thin wood varnishes and paints) in order to make the wax workable. The very best carnauba-based car wax is only about 1/3 natural carnauba. When a product advertises “pure carnauba car wax” or “100% carnauba car wax”, they are referring to the purity of the carnauba that is in the product, not the product as a whole.
That brings us to grading. Carnauba is harvested and then graded according to color, purity, and where it was grown. Trees grown in the northern area of Brazil produce the highest grade carnauba. The yellow wax is the most pure and therefore receives the highest grade. Some manufacturers refine the yellow wax again into an ultra-pure white wax to ensure that the wax produces the clearest, most reflective gloss once applied to the paint.
The drawback of carnauba waxes is that they do not last as long and are not as durable as a synthetic sealants. A carnauba car wax finish will wear off in approximately 6 to 8 weeks. It depends heavily on the climate in which you live and whether or not your vehicle is garaged. Daily commutes in a hot, humid climate mean a shorter life span for your carnauba wax coat.
In a nutshell, carnauba car wax is the wax of enthusiasts. It appeals to people who want the absolute most stunning show car shine available.
Paint sealants are kind of the anti-carnauba. They last a lot longer, and there’s nothing natural about them.
A paint sealant is made of polymers (hence the name synthetic polymer), which are composed of tens of thousands of synthetic particles that are linked together. When a sealant bonds to your vehicle’s paint, it forms a rigid shell. Synthetic sealants are real liquid armor for your paint. It is not the warm carnauba that seems to melt into the paint. Paint sealants sit on top of the paint like a transparent chain metal suit. They are glossy and slick. They give the paint a hard, glassy dazzling look. But carnauba lovers will tell you they do not have the warmth and depth of a carnauba.
Paint sealants have gotten progressively more popular as time goes on. Some people really love the hard-as-glass look. In an industry that is driven by technology, it seems appropriate that an engineered paint protector is the new favorite among many detailers.
However the big advantage and selling point of a paint sealant is it's durability. A premium paint sealant can last 4 to 6 months, sometimes longer. By “last”, I mean that water will continue to bead and the paint will remain protected from UV rays and contamination.
sealant for long lasting protection and then top it with a layer of carnauba for deep, dazzling shine. This creates the "wet fire over diamond ice" look. It’s the perfect marriage of beauty and longevity!
A car without a fresh coat of car wax is exposed to the brutality of the elements. Exposure to adverse conditions can doom your precious paint to oxidation, scratches, and corrosion.
When it comes to car waxes and sealants there are two main options to choose from, natural carnauba or synthetic polymer. Or for maximum gloss and protection it's best to use both.
Carnauba Waxes
Carnauba wax is the preferred car wax of collectors and concours enthusiasts because it creates a rich, warm glow. It doesn’t appear to sit on the paint. It transforms the paint into a deep, liquid pool that shimmers under changing light conditions. The more carnauba wax, the more shine. That's the nice thing about carnauba wax, it can be layered on to add more depth and deep,wet, mirror reflections.
The wax is produced by the Brazilian Tree of Life (Copernica Cerifera), a palm tree, in order to coat its leaves. The wax provides protection from the sweltering sun and because of the natural moisture repellency of the wax the rain water is shed so it falls onto the ground and is absorbed by the tree’s roots. Of course as you know, plants release oxygen through their leaves. For this reason, carnauba wax is breathable. Good for the tree and good for your paint.
Carnauba is hard as brick in it's natural form. When the leaves of the Tree of Life are harvested, the wax flakes off as the leaves dry out, or they are put into a machine that removes the wax. It comes off in hard flakes. Car Wax makers have to blend the wax with oils, petroleum distillates, or a solvent called naptha (commonly used to thin wood varnishes and paints) in order to make the wax workable. The very best carnauba-based car wax is only about 1/3 natural carnauba. When a product advertises “pure carnauba car wax” or “100% carnauba car wax”, they are referring to the purity of the carnauba that is in the product, not the product as a whole.
That brings us to grading. Carnauba is harvested and then graded according to color, purity, and where it was grown. Trees grown in the northern area of Brazil produce the highest grade carnauba. The yellow wax is the most pure and therefore receives the highest grade. Some manufacturers refine the yellow wax again into an ultra-pure white wax to ensure that the wax produces the clearest, most reflective gloss once applied to the paint.
The drawback of carnauba waxes is that they do not last as long and are not as durable as a synthetic sealants. A carnauba car wax finish will wear off in approximately 6 to 8 weeks. It depends heavily on the climate in which you live and whether or not your vehicle is garaged. Daily commutes in a hot, humid climate mean a shorter life span for your carnauba wax coat.
In a nutshell, carnauba car wax is the wax of enthusiasts. It appeals to people who want the absolute most stunning show car shine available.
Synthetic Sealants
Paint sealants are kind of the anti-carnauba. They last a lot longer, and there’s nothing natural about them.
A paint sealant is made of polymers (hence the name synthetic polymer), which are composed of tens of thousands of synthetic particles that are linked together. When a sealant bonds to your vehicle’s paint, it forms a rigid shell. Synthetic sealants are real liquid armor for your paint. It is not the warm carnauba that seems to melt into the paint. Paint sealants sit on top of the paint like a transparent chain metal suit. They are glossy and slick. They give the paint a hard, glassy dazzling look. But carnauba lovers will tell you they do not have the warmth and depth of a carnauba.
Paint sealants have gotten progressively more popular as time goes on. Some people really love the hard-as-glass look. In an industry that is driven by technology, it seems appropriate that an engineered paint protector is the new favorite among many detailers.
However the big advantage and selling point of a paint sealant is it's durability. A premium paint sealant can last 4 to 6 months, sometimes longer. By “last”, I mean that water will continue to bead and the paint will remain protected from UV rays and contamination.
| As you’ve seen, there are a lot of differences between paint sealants and natural carnauba waxes. Glassy, hard shell or deep, liquid shine? Six months or six weeks? However, some detailers and car enthusiasts simply refuse to choose. Instead they coat their vehicles with a |
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