Here are some of the biggest reasons carnauba waxes and sealants remain relevant:

1. The Warmth and Depth of Carnauba

One of the biggest reasons enthusiasts still reach for a quality carnauba wax is simply the look.

Carnauba creates a rich, warm glow that many describe as making paint appear “deeper” or “wetter.” Dark colors, reds, blacks, and classic cars often benefit from this softer, more natural finish compared to the sharper, highly reflective appearance of many ceramic products.

For owners who value aesthetics above all else, the final look is hard to beat.

2. Easier Application

Traditional waxes and sealants generally require:

• Less preparation
• No special lighting
• No time needed before the vehicle can be exposed to the natural elements
• No coating-specific leveling techniques
• No concerns about high spots

Most can be applied in the garage over the weekend with minimal tools and experience.

For someone maintaining a daily driver, simplicity and practicality matter. In its testing, Road & Track named Collinite No. 845 Insulator Wax its Top Pick, writing:

That simple statement captures why products like 845 have remained popular for decades. Drivers don’t necessarily want the newest technology—they want products that deliver consistent, repeatable results every time they detail their vehicle.

The magazine also praised 845 because it “bridges the gap between user-friendliness and professional-grade results,” noting that it “goes on easily, lasts for months,” without requiring multiple coats or complicated application techniques.

That’s exactly why so many weekend detailers continue reaching for traditional waxes. You don’t need specialized lighting, careful leveling, or curing windows. Just apply, buff, and enjoy the finish.

3. Lower Cost

A quality wax or hybrid sealant often costs a fraction of a professional ceramic coating.

Even premium paste waxes, like Collinite No. 915 Marque D’Elegance, typically provide dozens of applications from a single tin, making them one of the most economical paint protection options available. Plus, many “waxes” actually contain polymer additives to aid in durability and UV protection. Marque D’Elegance for example, provides up to 8 months of protection from a single application.

4. More Forgiving

Ceramic coatings reward precision.

Traditional waxes reward enthusiasm.

Apply a little too much? Buff it off.

Miss a spot? Apply another coat.

Need to fix a mistake? It’s usually simple.

That forgiveness makes them approachable for beginners while remaining enjoyable for experienced detailers.

5. Enjoyable to Use

Many enthusiasts genuinely enjoy waxing their vehicles.

It’s relaxing. It’s hands-on. It creates a connection with the vehicle.

For some owners, detailing isn’t simply maintenance—it’s part of the hobby. Spending a Saturday applying a favorite paste wax is just as rewarding as driving the car afterward.

That sentiment came through perfectly in Car and Driver’s review of Collinite 476 Super Doublecoat, which described it as:

That’s something ceramic coatings often overlook.

For countless enthusiasts, detailing isn’t simply another maintenance task—it’s part of owning the car. The ritual of applying a favorite paste wax, slowly buffing each panel, and watching the paint come alive is part of what makes the hobby enjoyable.

6. Easy to Refresh

Rather than waiting years before reapplying protection, waxes can be refreshed whenever desired. With coatings, you often subscribe to a regimen that if altered, may void a warranty.

Many automotive enthusiasts enjoy waxing:

• For Seasonal Maintenance
• Before car shows for show stopping gloss
• Before winter for protection against salt
• Immediately after a paint correction

Each application restores depth while providing additional durability.

7. Plenty of Protection for Most Drivers

One of the biggest myths surrounding wax is that it offers only short-lived protection. While ceramic coatings certainly last longer, many people don’t actually need multi-year durability.

A quality hybrid wax or polymer sealant can still provide:

• Excellent water beading for up to 10 months
• UV protection for up to 1 year
• Road salt resistance
• Detergent resistance

For vehicles that are washed regularly, this is often more than sufficient.

Road & Track specifically noted that Collinite 845 “lasts for months” while producing strong water beading and a rich gloss.

That reinforces an important point:

For many drivers, especially those who wash their vehicles regularly, several months of durable protection is more than enough. They aren’t necessarily looking for a multi-year coating—they simply want dependable protection that’s easy to renew.

8. Great Compatibility with Paint Correction

After polishing, many enthusiasts enjoy selecting the perfect finishing wax.

A premium wax or sealant highlights the freshly corrected finish while adding slickness and gloss without permanently locking in the surface.

If additional polishing is needed later, removing a wax is much simpler than removing a ceramic coating.

9. Works Well on Older Paint

Not every vehicle has a flawless clear coat.

Older finishes, single-stage paint, and classic vehicles often respond beautifully to traditional waxes, which can visually soften minor imperfections while enriching color.

Many collectors continue using traditional waxes on vintage vehicles for exactly this reason. Ceramic coatings should generally only be applied to surgically clean or nearly perfect paint.

10. No Long-Term Commitment

One advantage that often goes overlooked is flexibility. Use a different auto shampoo when it suits you, or top a wax with a different polymer or ceramic spray wax. Chances are it will be compatible and only add to the gloss and protection.

Want to try a different product next month? No problem.

Traditional waxes gradually wear away and can easily be replaced with another favorite product, allowing enthusiasts to experiment with different looks and formulations.

A ceramic coating may offer a 5 or 7 year warranty which is often longer than the average owner will keep their vehicle.

The Best Choice Depends on Your Priorities

Ceramic coatings excel when maximum longevity, adding an element of paint hardness and chemical resistance are the primary goals.

Traditional waxes and carnauba/polymer hybrid sealants shine when owners value:

• Exceptional gloss and warmth
• Easy application
• Affordability
• Flexibility
• An enjoyable detailing experience
• Simple maintenance and reapplication

For many enthusiasts, the choice isn’t either/or—it’s about using the right product for the right vehicle and the right lifestyle. A daily commuter may benefit from the long-lasting protection of a ceramic coating, while a weekend cruiser or show car might look its absolute best under a fresh coat of premium carnauba wax.

The enduring popularity of traditional waxes proves that while detailing technology continues to evolve, there’s still something timeless about the satisfaction of hand-applying a quality wax and stepping back to admire a finish that looks deep, glossy, and unmistakably cared for.

Traditional Doesn’t Mean Obsolete

The automotive industry has embraced ceramic technology, and for good reason. Ceramic coatings offer exceptional longevity and chemical resistance.

But as many independent tests demonstrate, that doesn’t mean traditional waxes have become irrelevant.

Road & Track selected an old-school hybrid liquid wax as its overall winner because it combined durability, appearance, and ease of use in a package that simply works. Meanwhile, Car and Driver recognized a classic paste wax because it still delivers the experience—and results—that many enthusiasts value most.

The takeaway isn’t that one technology has replaced the other. It’s that the “best” paint protection depends on what matters most to the owner. For someone seeking years of protection, a ceramic coating may be the ideal solution. But for drivers who appreciate a rich, warm finish, straightforward application, and the satisfaction of hands-on detailing, traditional waxes and carnauba/polymer hybrid sealants continue to earn their place in the garage—just as they have for generations.

The post Why Traditional Carnauba Waxes and Sealants Still Have a Place in Your Garage appeared first on Collinite.

If you’re putting in the time, you want the results to last. Below are three of the most common (and costly) mistakes—and how to avoid them using the right approach and products.

1. Using the Wrong Products and Tools

The Problem

Not all detailing products are created equal—and what works on your car isn’t always suitable for gelcoat, marine paint, or sensitive boat surfaces.

Using harsh soaps, low-quality waxes, or aggressive pads can:

• Strip protective layers
• Cause micro-scratching or swirl marks
• Fail to bond properly with marine surfaces
• Accelerate oxidation and fading

Additionally, cheap towels or the wrong polishing pads can undo hours of work in minutes.

The Solution

Use marine-grade products specifically designed for durability in harsh environments, including sun, salt, and water exposure.

Recommended Approach

• Wash with a pH-balanced marine soap that won’t strip wax
• Choose high-quality foam, wool, or microfiber pads suited to your level of correction
• Use premium microfiber applicator pads, towels, and wash mitts to prevent scratching

Recommended Products

• Collinite No. 83 Foamr
• Collinite 3” x 5” Applicator Sponge
• Collinite Deluxe Microfiber Wash Mitt
• Collinite 16” x 16” Edgeless Microfiber Towel

The right tools and products don’t just improve results—they make the process easier, safer, and more consistent.

2. Waxing Over a Contaminated Surface

The Problem

This is one of the most common and overlooked mistakes in boat detailing.

If your surface isn’t properly prepped, you’re essentially sealing in:

• Oxidation
• Embedded dirt and salt
• Old, failing wax layers

Wax is designed to protect—not clean. Applying it over contamination leads to:

• Poor bonding
• Reduced longevity
• Uneven shine or hazy finishes

The Solution

Proper surface preparation is critical for long-lasting results.

Before Waxing, Always:

1. Thoroughly wash the boat
2. Decontaminate the surface using a cleaner or polish
3. Remove oxidation if present
4. Ensure the surface is smooth and clean to the touch

Recommended Products

• Collinite No. 920 Heavy Duty Cleaner – A great starting point for safely removing grime without damaging surfaces
• Collinite No. 870 Fleetwax Cleaner-Wax (All-in-One Restorer + Protector)
• Collinite No. 631 Machine Compounding Polish
• Collinite No. 435 Streak Fixer (Black Streak Remover + Protector)

Finish With Protection

• Collinite No. 925 Marine Wax High Gloss Sealant
• Collinite No. 885 Fleetwax Paste Ultra Durable High Gloss Sealant

Think of wax as the final step—not the fix. The better your prep, the better your results.

3. Focusing Only on the Hull

The Problem

It’s easy to focus on large, visible areas like the hull—but that’s only part of the detailing process.

Ignoring other surfaces can lead to:

• Corroded metal fittings
• Faded or cracked upholstery
• An unfinished overall appearance

Your boat is made up of multiple materials—not just fiberglass.

The Solution

Take a complete detailing approach and address every surface on your boat.

Don’t Forget:

• Metal components (rails, cleats, fittings, propellers)
• Glass and clear plastics
• Seats and upholstery
• Non-skid surfaces

Recommended Approach

• Clean and protect metal to prevent corrosion
• Use appropriate cleaners for vinyl and upholstery
• Apply protective products to extend lifespan and maintain appearance

Recommended Products

• Collinite No. 850 Metal Wax (Medium Cut Metal Polish)
• Collinite No. 855 Leather and Vinyl Wax
• Collinite No. 21 All-In Universal Interior Detailer
• Collinite No. 150 Slickr 3-in-1 Ceramic Detailer – recommended on clear plastic and glass, or as a maintainer over waxed surfaces.

While sealants and waxes protect your fiberglass, a truly detailed boat reflects care across every surface.

Final Thoughts

Boat detailing isn’t just about making your vessel shine—it’s about protecting your investment against some of the harshest environmental conditions.

Avoiding these three mistakes will help you:

• Extend the life of your finish
• Improve durability and performance
• Save time and money over the long term

The key is simple: use the right products, prepare the surface properly, and take a comprehensive approach to detailing.

With the right process—and trusted products like those from Collinite—you’ll achieve results that not only look great on day one, but continue to perform season after season.

The post Three Common Boat Detailing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them appeared first on Collinite.

For decades, Collinite has been synonymous with industrial-grade durability. As the detailing industry shifts toward SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide) and ceramic coatings, the core question is whether modern chemistry compromises the “bulletproof” reputation of legacy waxes. Collinite’s approach integrates ceramic technology not as a replacement, but as a specialized expansion of their legendary protection standards.

The Collinite Benchmark: Engineering for Failure-Prone Environments

Unlike brands driven by marketing cycles, Collinite’s DNA is rooted in high-stakes environments:

• Power Line Insulators: Protecting high-voltage equipment from electrical arcing.
• Marine Applications: Withstanding constant saltwater saturation and UV degradation.
• Automotive Extremes: Surviving harsh northern winters and road salt.

Whether a formula utilizes natural carnauba or nano-infused ceramics, the benchmark remains the same: it must survive real-world conditions, not just laboratory tests. If a product cannot offer multi-season longevity, it does not earn the Collinite name.

Technical Comparison: Traditional Wax vs. Ceramic SiO₂

To help users choose the right protection, it is essential to understand the structural differences between these two technologies.

Old School: The Heavy Lifters (476s, 845, 915)

Traditional Collinite sealants are “physical” protectors. They create a thick, tangible layer over the clear coat.

• Key Advantage: They excel at masking light swirls and providing a warm aesthetic that ceramics often lack.
• Durability: Renowned for resisting chemical stripping from road salt and heavy detergents.
• Application: Ideal for enthusiasts who prefer a tactile waxing process and want a “bulletproof” winter prep.

New School: The Slick Shield (Ceramic Technology)

Collinite’s entry into SiO₂ technology focuses on surface energy. Rather than relying on the mass of the product, ceramics modify the paint surface at a molecular level.

• Self-Cleaning Properties: The extreme slickness reduces dirt adhesion, meaning the vehicle stays cleaner for longer.
• Chemical Resistance: Superior protection against bird droppings, acid rain, and environmental fallout.
• Efficiency: Designed for faster application and simplified maintenance cycles without sacrificing the brand’s signature longevity.

Conclusion: Coexistence Over Replacement

The evolution of Collinite is not about abandoning the past; it is about providing the right tool for the environment. While Collinite 845 remains the gold standard for rugged, “set-it-and-forget-it” protection, their Ceramic offerings provide a modern solution for those prioritizing ease of maintenance and high-tech water shedding.

The post Collinite Heritage vs. Ceramic Technology: Evolution of Paint Protection appeared first on Collinite.

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Check them out HERE

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Recently, one of my buddies was asking me about our waxes.

“What makes yours better?” he asked.

“Mainly the durability-how long our waxes last. That’s our staple and it’s why people like it” I answered.

“So if it’s so durable, why isn’t Collinite more popular?”

“Well, we really don’t push it down people’s throats. Plus, it can be tough for some consumers to look past anything but lowest price nowadays. Ironically, if you break it down, the durability ends up saving you money and time in the long-run.”

“Then you should break it down…like, what it actually costs a customer to use Collinite’s most durable car wax, and then show the value.”

Good idea.

Excluding life’s necessities (food, utilities, taxes etc), think of the products and services that might make up your fixed expenses in a given month; dining out, haircuts, cups of coffee, 200” screen televisions. Of course the significance we assign to these products and services is relative based on our different priorities, tastes, values and habits.

Let’s go ahead and take haircuts. A quality trim is fairly inexpensive -depending on your preference and possibly your gender (women spend about 2-5X’s more on haircuts than men do, so let’s use men’s as an example to keep that variable consistent.) With tip, average price for a wash and cut is around $17. (I just got my ears lowered for $9, so it looks like I’m successfully bucking the trend.) Now think about how long-on average-the haircut will last before a return visit is needed. Let’s say once every 3 weeks/17 times a year/once every 21 days.*

Your dome grooming is costing you:

$295 a year

$24.57 a month

80 cents a day

So what’s some Collinite costing you?

One 9oz can of No. 476s retail price: $18.99 USD.

Estimated cost of one coat to cover a mid sized sedan: 1/14^th or 7% of said 9oz can: $1.32

Average longevity of one coat in a moderate climate (rounded down so it doesn’t look like we’re fudging this): 5 months/150 days

So what’s it costing you to shine, protect and preserve the finish of your car with Collinite 476s?  It might just blow your hair back.

$3.21 a year    

26 cents a month 

Less than a penny a day     

*Return barber visits depend on different factors; i.e.  If you’re active military, if your team is in the playoffs (a trim could prove detrimental during winning streaks), if you play percussion for a Pantera tribute band, or if Locks of Love is your charity of choice.

The post Theory of Relative Durability appeared first on Collinite.

I just got off the phone with Bob in Clinton, NY. For those unfamiliar with Central New York, Clinton is a quaint village about 10 min outside of Collinite’s home in Utica. Bob and I spoke at length about what Collinite marine products might best suit his needs as he’s preparing to take his 24 foot Chaparral out of the water (pretty short boating season here in upstate NY).

We talked shop about the trade offs between using the No. 925 vs. the No. 885 (ease of use/durability etc), the weather this past year, as well as our shared frustration with a certain sports team’s shortcomings. Bob spoke about the great results he’s found from using our waxes, finally concluding with, ”Plus, you’ve always gotta support local products.”

I couldn’t let Bob off the phone until I was completely honest.

“Eh…not always,” I answered. “Only if it’s a good product.”

I think that left Bob momentarily puzzled. “Why was this guy from Collinite shooting down a compliment? “, he must have thought.

“What do you mean?”, he asked.

I tried to elaborate. “I appreciate the fact you like Collinite and that you support what we do here, but if the wax we pour 20 feet from my desk was a less than average product, if it was inconsistent, or if it was of lesser quality, I would never hold it against locals, or anyone, if they didn’t want to use it. Especially in times like this, you can’t just expect people to show up and help you out just because of your proximity. If you’re not providing something valuable, you can’t hide behind the locally-made card.“

Don’t get me wrong-In so many ways, I agree with Bob. Whether it’s from a pumpkin farm, restaurant, or hardware store-buying local is a fiscally healthy consumer trend. As small business owners and workers, no one shares this sentiment more than we do at Collinite.  Buying local sustains and creates jobs in our area, makes use of our local taxes, and invests in our community. It also feels good to partake in. You’re contributing to your neighbors’ success stories.

But let’s be honest-buying locally from small businesses, while gratifying, can sometimes prove inconvenient compared to chain retail outlets. It can also be costly. You have to expect as much or more from what you get. Even Bob agreed with this.

Case in point: Saranac is brewed just down the street from the Collinite plant. If its beverages were sub-standard, how could I be expected to buy them-simply because of where they’re made?  That just doesn’t cut it. And it shouldn’t. Luckily, Saranac churns out very good products. They may cost a bit more than their nationally known counterparts, but its worth it to some consumers. When I bring Saranac to friends or relatives from out of town, I’m proud to say it’s made in my own backyard. I’m happy to see Saranac at grocery stores in downstate NY. It’s gratifying to see it’s Pale Ale on draft in Maryland. It’s awesome to find its Root Beer on shelves in Alaska.

I think Bob appreciates the standard we hold ourselves to here at Collinite. I’m certain he appreciated the honesty.

Expect more from what you buy-no matter where it’s from.

The post Buy Small. Buy Local. Buy Well. appeared first on Collinite.

Us waxers are an ambitious, impatient lot. We want to beautify our rides-car or boat… whatever the cost, whatever the weather. The problem is, our detailing desires occasionally get the best of us.

I spoke to a gentleman from Pittsburgh today. He’s been using Collinite’s No.845 Insulator Wax (IW) for over 15 years. He explained a problem he’d encountered this past weekend. After the IW was removed, his black SUV looked great, but he was noticing slight streaks once the vehicle was brought out into the sun.

Here in the states, cold weather is beginning to set in; especially where we are in the northeast (nights are beginning to drop into the 40’s). We all know how this goes; that inevitable urgency we can’t shake to get an extra coat of winter wax on our car or boat to protect against Mother Nature’s future wrath. And herein lies the predicament. Cold nights lead to cold surfaces. Cold surfaces lead to wax drying harder and faster during hurried wax jobs the following morning. And this can lead to wax steaks-unsightly, frustrating, awful wax streaks. Streaks lead to customers asking, “What did I do wrong?”

Some things to remember when using Collinite last step waxes this fall:

1. Following a wash, ensure the finish is free of imperfections; water spots, pre-existing wax, residues, swirls, stains, discoloration etc.

2. Air temperature does not = surface temperature. Just because it’s 11:30AM and 72 degrees F, doesn’t mean your car or boat’s surface is suitable for wax application-paste wax or gel wax. The finish is still warming up from a possibly cooler night. You’re running the risk of streaking the surface if a coat is put down too soon. Optimal conditions are as follows:

• Surface is lukewarm-room temperature to the touch

• Surface is out of direct sunlight

• There is little to no wind factor

3. Thin layers, means THIN layers. Sometimes, when detailing we start applying in thin coats, but subconsciously add more wax as we go on, thinking it’s going to improve Collinite’s signature durability or shine. It won’t. It will create streaks. Apply as thin and as evenly as you can.

4. Watch your set up times. Don’t go with an arbitrary time framework (i.e. 3 minutes, 5 minutes or 30 minutes). Different conditions will invariably affect how long it takes the wax to dry. Use your eyes-look to see when the wax changes pigment and begins to cloud or haze as this is your most important visual cue for removal. It will go from clear to a white cloudiness. When that begins to happen, remove immediately.

5. Skill and familiarity with Collinite is easily one of the biggest variables we come across. Some detailers have different preferences when it comes to set up/drying times, sometimes allowing Collinite waxes (gel or paste) to harden even further past the hazing/pigment changing phase. This is where detailing proficiency/skill, equipment, prep work, finesse, and a comprehensive knowledge of paint and products really come into play. One detailer’s preference could be a novice’s nightmare when it comes to removal. If you’re a newbie with Collinite, always work in small sections at a time (2X2 ft).

6. If streaks result because one of the aforementioned tips was not considered, try misting the surface with cold water or quick detailer product, and then remove with microfiber towel. An initial wash may also make the streaks disappear.

What tricks or tips made you rethink your Collinite application and removal process? Email brand@collinite.com or tell us on Facebook. You could win a Collinite t-shirt ….always a great way to cover up after some streaking.

The post We’re Going Streaking appeared first on Collinite.

Sometimes it’s tough to trust people who are always dressed up. It’s almost as if certain motives or empty promises might be lying underneath a polished look or spiffy threads. Maybe that’s why politicians aren’t always looked upon with the highest regard. (Our apologies if you currently hold office.)

We’re not fancy dressers here at Collinite. Our friends know it. Our families know it. Casual is comfortable to us. There’s rarely any smoke and mirrors with our presentation-what you see is what you get, and we typically dress things down whenever possible. Putting more stock in someone’s character than their cardigan has always been our compass.

However, we take a softer line when it comes to weddings, celebrations or other special events of the like. Once in awhile it’s OK to clean up. Case in point, I for one wasn’t thrilled to don a wedding day tuxedo, but I knew the occasion called for it. My family, my friends and my wife deserved a little better than Dickies work shorts and a hand-me-down t-shirt.

And I suppose that kind of underscores the philosophy behind the new website. If you’re reading this, then you can already see the look (and more importantly-the function) of collinite.com has been dressed up. But 2011 is one of those special events for us. It’s our 75th year of making Collinite. And there’s a product line, a legacy of tradition, and a slew of loyal customers that deserved a little better.

Whether you’ve bought Collinite, used it, sold it, or continue to spread the word about it (regardless of its dressed-down approach) we’d like to take the opportunity to sincerely thank you for helping support our small family business for the past 75 years.

Here’s to keeping up appearances…on our vehicles that is.

The post All Dressed Up appeared first on Collinite.

“What you guys do at Collinite is authentic; family business, blue collar, small focus, quality products. People like to hear about that kind of stuff nowadays. Don’t be afraid to include that in your message to customers. “

This was the advice (and probably the most coveted advice) we were given when initiating the new collinite.com project. The best part is, we never had to fake the authenticity card in our messaging. We keep things small at the Collinite plant, so everyone here helps out and pitches in-whenever possible, with everything. Just ask anyone who’s stopped by and been around us.

Yesterday was the first day the site went live. I came in at 7:45 AM and envisioned putting some finishing touches on the product pages and getting prepared. But our all-hands-on-deck operating procedure means day-to-day tasks aren’t just passed off to someone else. You do your best to take care of them yourself and pitch in.

Among other things-cleaner-wax cases needed to be stacked, customer phone calls needed to be answered, production schedules had to be determined, and a quick personnel line change was required for hand-pouring No. 885 Fleetwax Paste (literally 15 feet from my desk).

Maybe now you can see why the site took us so long to finish. You may even notice a few typos and minor discrepancies littered throughout the site that we still have to address (or for that matter-this entry, as I had to pick up the phone four times). Don’t worry-between pouring, shipping and landscaping today-we’ll get it straight. But for now it’ll just have to be chalked up as us being ourselves-authentic to a fault.

The post Authenticity? Shouldn’t be a problem. appeared first on Collinite.