Polishing Mistakes Even Pros Still Make – What to Watch Out For
Think swirl marks only come from washing? Think again. Here are the polishing habits that quietly ruin your finish—and how to fix them.
1. Polishing Too Fast
High-speed arm movement leads to inconsistent correction, micro-marring, and missed spots. Slow it down and let the machine and polish do the work.
2. Using the Wrong Pad for the Paint Type
Every paint system is different. Too aggressive a pad on soft paint causes haze. Too soft a pad on hard paint wastes your time. Picture Perfect Polish is pad-dependent, so choose wisely based on your goal.
3. Not Finishing With a Soft Pad
If you compound with a heavy-cut pad but never follow up with a softer one, you’ll likely leave holograms or haze—especially on black paint. Even in a one-step, try finishing with a softer pad for final gloss.
4. Using Too Much Product
More isn’t better. Overloading your pad clogs the foam, reduces cut, and creates dust. Use 3–4 small drops per section, not a lake of polish.
5. Not Cleaning Your Pad Mid-Polish
A dirty pad is a dull pad. Use compressed air, a brush, or swap pads every few sections. This keeps your cut consistent and prevents trailing haze.
6. Skipping the Paint Prep Step
Polishing a dirty panel—or one with residual oils, dressings, or wax—means poor bonding and inconsistent finish. The Super Soaper is perfect for pre-polish prep when followed by clay and a panel wipe.
7. Not Inspecting Under Good Lighting
What looks perfect indoors may show swirls in the sun. Use handheld LEDs or bright white light to check your work before sealing or coating.
Final Thoughts
Polishing isn’t just about technique—it’s about avoiding the subtle habits that cost you time and clarity. Whether you're one-stepping with Picture Perfect Polish or doing a multi-step correction, these tips will help you finish better and faster—every time.
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