What is a Multi-Step Paint Correction Vs. a 1-Step Polishing Correction?

A Paint Correction is the process used to remove clear coat imperfections via machine compounding (heavy cutting to remove deep clear coat imperfections) & a 2nd step polishing (lighter cut, removes smaller clear coat imperfections). It is vital that a paint correction is performed prior to application of a hand-applied ceramic coating as a ceramic coating will “lock-in” these clear coat imperfections, making them very difficult to fix. At Apex, we perform a multi-step paint correction for all of our professional coatings (quality requirement for these coatings as they are backed by a manufacturer’s warranty). In fact, we only offer a 1-step polishing correction for our 1-2 year ceramic coating service, and that is vehicle dependent. One way to look at a multi-step paint correction is visualize compounding as using a “steak knife” to cut and fix deep swirl marks, micro scratches & polishing as using a “butter knife” to fix minor clear coat imperfections and level out the clear coat properly. It is important and necessary to follow up any compounding steps with a polishing step as the polishing step “levels” out the vehicles clear coat after heavy compound cutting, allowing for ceramic coatings to bond properly to this flat surface & even surface, maximizing the life span of the coating on your vehicle.