Water spots don't look great at all, detracting from your shiny paintwork that you work hard to maintain. Water spots are caused by mineral deposits that are left behind when water evaporates, and these deposits can be stubborn to remove.
If these imperfections are then left untreated they can cause damage that is costly to remove.
There is an easy to use solution, and that's Water Spot Remover. In this article we'll discuss water spotting and how to remove them from your car with Chemical Guys.
What are water spots and what damage do they cause?
Water spots are those annoying marks that are usually left by water that has evaporated on the surface. They can be particularly frustrating for seasoned detailers who diligently dry their car after a wash.
However, to effectively remove and prevent them it's important to understand what water spots are and how they appear on your car's paintwork.
Top causes of water spots
Mineral deposits
The most common type of water spots are caused by hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. When water evaporates, these minerals are left behind, forming visible spots on your car's surface.
Acid rain
Water spots can also result from acid rain, which contains pollutants like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. When acid rainwater evaporates, it can leave behind deposits that etch into the paint, making them harder to remove than typical mineral deposits.
Environmental contaminants
Water spots can form from various environmental sources, such as tree sap, bird droppings, and industrial chemicals. These contaminants mix with water and, when they dry, leave behind stubborn spots.
Potential damage from water spots
While water spots might seem like a minor cosmetic issue, they can cause more significant problems if ignored. The minerals in water spots can etch into your car’s clear coat, leading to:
Paint degradation
Over time, the minerals can erode the clear coat, exposing the paint to further damage and fading.
Surface roughness
Water spots can create a rough texture on your car’s surface, making it more challenging to clean and wax.
Permanent etching
If left untreated, some water spots can permanently etch into the paint, requiring professional polishing or repainting to fix.
Why Chemical Guys Water Spot Remover?
Chemical Guys Water Spot Remover is your go-to solution for eliminating stubborn water spots from your car’s surface. This advanced formula is designed to dissolve and neutralise the minerals and contaminants that cause water spots, leaving your paintwork smooth and clean. It works quickly to break down and remove even the toughest water spots.
Water Spot Remover is safe to use on clear coat, chrome or glass with causing any damage or scratches. It's pH neutral so it won't harm any existing finish which makes it ideal for regular use.
With a straightforward application process, you don’t need to be a car care expert to achieve professional results. The product is designed for both beginners and experienced detailers, ensuring that anyone can use it effectively.
For best results you need the right accessories
To achieve the best results with Chemical Guys Water Spot Remover, using the right accessories is crucial. These products not only enhance the effectiveness of the remover but also ensure that the process is safe and efficient for your car’s surface.
Microfiber towel - An essential for any detailing session. A soft microfiber towel is perfect for wiping off the product without scratching your car's paint. They will absorb any moisture leaving the surface clean and dry.
Applicator pad - Perfect for applying Water Spot Remover to your car's surface. An applicator pad with ensure an even application and is gentle to paintwork.
Detailing brush - For harder to reach areas you should utilise an exterior detailing brush. They're ideal for reaching tight corners and small crevices where water spots might accumulate.
Preparation is key to removing water spots
Proper preparation is key to effectively removing water spots from your car and ensuring the best results with Chemical Guys Water Spot Remover.
How to prepare you car for removing water spots:
1. Give your a car a thorough wash
Start by giving your car a thorough wash to remove any loose dirt, dust, and grime that might interfere with the Water Spot Remover’s effectiveness. Using a microfibre wash mitt, wash your car from top to bottom, ensuring all areas are covered.
2. Dry your car
After washing, it’s crucial to dry your car completely to prevent new water spots from forming. Use a clean, dry microfibre towel to gently dry the entire surface.
3. Park in a shaded area
Before applying the Water Spot Remover, move your car to a shaded area. Direct sunlight can cause the product to dry too quickly, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leaving streaks or residue. Working in the shade ensures that the product remains active for the required time, allowing it to break down the mineral deposits effectively.
4. Inspect the surface of your car
Once your car is dry and in a shaded area, take a moment to inspect the surface. Identify the areas with water spots and note their severity. This step helps you focus on the most affected areas, ensuring efficient use of the product.
How to apply Chemical Guys Water Spot Remover
1. Apply the product
Shake the bottle well and apply a small amount on top an applicator pad. It's always advisable to start on a small section to check how the product reacts with the surface of your car.
Spread the product evenly over the affected area using a circular motion to ensure you achieve complete coverage over the water spots. This technique also helps work the product into the mineral deposits.
2. Let the product sit and wipe off
After a few minutes gently wipe the product off with a clean microfiber towel. The dwell time is crucial to let the product work into the surface and dissolve the mineral deposits. It's important you don't let the product dry on the surface.
It's also important you rinse the treat area with clean water. This will ensure any remaining product and loosened deposits are washed away, and again completely dry the surface.
3. Inspect the results
Once you have completed the process, inspect the treated areas to ensure all water spots have been removed. The surface should look clear and smooth. If you notice any remaining spots, you can perform another round of application or use a detailing brush to target specific areas.
How to prevent water spots in the future
After successfully removing water spots from your car, it's important to take steps to prevent them from reappearing.
1. Avoid parking under trees
One of the simplest ways to prevent water spots is by being mindful of where you park. Avoid parking under trees, as tree sap and bird droppings can mix with water and create spots. Choose shaded or covered parking whenever possible.
2. Dry your car after washing or rain
After washing your car or after it rains, take the time to dry your car thoroughly with a clean microfibre towel. Leaving water to air dry on your car’s surface can lead to water spots, as minerals in the water are left behind when it evaporates.
3. Regularly wash your car
Keep your car in great condition by regularly washing the surface. You may also consider adding a sealant or wax to add a protection layer that will repel water contaminants that cause water spotting.
