Wax question on newish paint

[jvincig01]

Last year, I had my roof cap painted professionally. Thread here: Rain Gutter and Top Restoration - https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/rain-gutter-and-top-restoration.1279454/page-13

Well, it's been on for about a year, so I figure it's time to give it a wax. I don't see a need to wet sand and polish because there really isn't much if any, orange peel on the top. I mean you have to be on a ladder looking really close to see something.

Anyhow, I see conflicting information online. Can I go straight to wax with a DA polisher, or do I need to do anything before that?

If I can just wax it, what products do you recommend? I will likely just end up waxing the whole vehicle while I am at it.

 

[Brew40]

 

[Brew40]

I believe I borrowed that image from @wngrog
Been using both for a year now and highly recommend-

 

[mattressking]

Wax is fine but ceramic coatings, albeit a little more expensive, are far more substantial. They come in multiple duration options and withstand the elements far better.

Once the wax comes off, switch over to ceramic and see what you think. I've been stunned by how much easier it is to maintain.

Gyeon has been my go-to and is a major asset when rinsing off winter salt/snow/grime. Even less ceramic spray on post wash will last for about 2-3 months and is a lot less labor intensive. Especially if you maintain with clay, iron remover and finish with a good polish from Sonax or similar.

 

[charliemeyer007]

 

[CondeCruiser]

I agree with @mattressking. Gyeon has great products. I use the pure ceramic coat from them as well as all of their products. Stay away from Chemical guys stuff. It's terrible and doesn't last. If you can feel any roughness to the paint, claybar it and use a good compound polish. I prefer to use 3D one for people that don't want a full paint correction. It goes on nice and wipes off easy. Then I apply Jescar Powerlock plus + sealant. Apply with a DA and let it sit for 30-40 minutes, and wipe off with a good microfiber towel. It lasts about 12 months and is super slick.

 

[Pierps]

I don't think you need to use compound or a DA polisher unless you need to correct the paint. I.e., remove scratches, even out the sheen, remove minor nibs in the clear, or remove minor orange peel. Every time you do those corrections, you're removing paint (single stage) or clear coat, so it's best to avoid if your paint is new and looks good. I would just apply and buff the wax by hand.

Ceramic coats sound interesting, but I haven't used them so I can't speak to it.