Unlock the Secret to Restoring Exterior Trim and Bringing Back That Like-New Shine

As any car enthusiast knows, the exterior trim and plastic components on a vehicle can take a real beating over time. Exposure to the elements, UV rays, and general wear and tear can leave once-vibrant plastics and rubbers looking dull, faded, and downright unsightly. But fear not - there's a solution that can breathe new life into your car's tired trim, and it comes in the form of Solution Finish.

In this in-depth guide, we'll dive into the ins and outs of Solution Finish, a revolutionary product designed to restore and protect exterior plastics, rubbers, and vinyls. Straight from the expert himself, Chris West of Solution Finish, you'll learn why this product stands out from the competition, how to properly apply it for long-lasting results, and the best techniques and tools to get the job done right. Whether you're a seasoned pro detailer or a DIY enthusiast looking to revive your ride, this post has everything you need to know to make your car's trim look better than ever.

What Makes Solution Finish the Ultimate Plastic Restorer?

Solution Finish was created with one goal in mind: to provide a simple, effective, and long-lasting solution for restoring and protecting exterior plastics, rubbers, and vinyls. Unlike traditional dressings and protectants that merely mask the problem, Solution Finish actually penetrates deep into the material to revive its original color and luster.

At the heart of Solution Finish's formula is a unique blend of antioxidants and light stabilizers that work to shield the plastic from further UV damage and oxidation. This "sunscreen for your plastic" effect means that with regular application, your trim components can maintain their like-new appearance for years to come, rather than quickly fading and deteriorating.

But what really sets Solution Finish apart is its ability to absorb into the microscopic pores of the plastic, creating a strong, lasting bond. This is in stark contrast to silicone-based dressings, which merely sit on the surface and eventually wear off, leaving the plastic vulnerable once again. With Solution Finish, you're not just masking the problem - you're addressing it at the root level for truly transformative results.

The Right Way to Apply Solution Finish Trim Restorer for Maximum Impact

Proper application is key to getting the most out of Solution Finish, and Chris West has a few tips to share:

• Vigorously Shake the Bottle: Before use, make sure to give the Solution Finish bottle a good, vigorous shake. This helps to ensure the formula is properly mixed and ready to deliver optimal results.

• Apply with a Microfiber Applicator: Use a high-quality microfiber applicator to apply a small amount of Solution Finish to the desired surface. This allows for even, controlled coverage without waste.

• Wipe Off Excess: After applying, be sure to wipe off any excess Solution Finish with a clean microfiber towel. You want the finish to be a dry, matte look, not wet and glossy.

One common mistake Chris sees is users skipping that final wiping step, which can leave the trim looking tacky and unfinished. By following these three simple instructions, you'll ensure the Solution Finish has the chance to properly soak in and work its magic.

Chris also recommends taking the time to properly prepare the surface before application. Using a product like Paint Coating Surface Prep, you can break down any previously applied silicone-based dressings and help the Solution Finish bond more effectively. This extra step can make a big difference in the final results.

Tackling Tough Spots with the Right Tools

While the basic application process is straightforward, there are some areas on a vehicle that can be tricky to reach and treat effectively. That's where the right tools can make all the difference.

Chris is a big fan of the Detail Factory Foam Applicator and Terry Applicator Sponge from The Rag Company. These specialized applicators allow you to get Solution Finish into tight spaces, around edges, and into intricate trim pieces with precision and control.

"I love having the right tool for the right job," Chris says. "Solution Finish, we know that's the right product. Now we just need to pair it with the right tool."

The terry sponge applicator, for example, is perfect for covering larger surface areas quickly and evenly. Meanwhile, the foam applicator excels at getting into tight corners, vents, and other hard-to-reach spots. By using the right applicator for the job, you can ensure complete and consistent coverage, even on the most challenging trim components.

Extending the Life of Your Trim with "Over the Top" Plastic Sealer

While Solution Finish is an incredibly effective product on its own, Chris has developed an even more comprehensive solution for long-lasting plastic restoration: the "Over the Top" Plastic Sealer.

Designed to work in tandem with Solution Finish, the Over the Top Sealer provides an extra layer of protection and sheen to the treated surfaces. It's not a ceramic coating, but rather a specialized formula that helps lock in the benefits of the Solution Finish and prevent future oxidation and fading.

The key advantage of the Over the Top Sealer is that it won't interfere with Solution Finish's ability to absorb into the plastic. Many other sealants and coatings can actually prevent Solution Finish from penetrating properly, defeating the whole purpose. But with the Over the Top Sealer, you get the best of both worlds: the deep-cleaning, revitalizing power of Solution Finish, combined with the long-lasting protection of a specialized sealant.

By applying the Over the Top Sealer on top of Solution Finish, you're essentially creating a one-two punch that extends the life and appearance of your trim components. It's the perfect way to keep your car's exterior looking showroom-fresh for years to come.

Choosing the Right Solution Finish for Your Needs

Solution Finish comes in a few different formulations to suit a variety of needs. The standard black Solution Finish is the go-to choice for most applications, but Chris has also developed a Fusion Gray version specifically for restoring truly gray, oxidized plastics.

In terms of sizing, Solution Finish is available in both a 12-ounce "Pro" size and a 2-ounce individual bottle. The Pro size is designed to cover 30-36 cars, making it a great value for professional detailers or those with multiple vehicles to maintain. The smaller 2-ounce bottle is perfect for DIY enthusiasts or those with just a single car to work on.

Regardless of which size or color you choose, one thing remains constant: a little Solution Finish goes a long way. Chris emphasizes that over-application is a common mistake, leading to waste and potentially suboptimal results. By using a small amount and properly wiping off any excess, you'll get the most out of this powerful plastic restorer.

Bringing Your Trim Back to Life: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to transform your car's tired, faded trim? Here's a step-by-step guide to getting the job done right with Solution Finish:

1. Prepare the Surface: Start by using a product like Paint Coating Surface Prep to remove any existing silicone-based dressings or contaminants from the plastic. This will help the Solution Finish bond more effectively.

2. Shake the Bottle Vigorously: Before applying, give the Solution Finish bottle a good, vigorous shake to ensure the formula is properly mixed.

3. Apply with a Microfiber Applicator: Dip a high-quality microfiber applicator, like the Detail Factory Foam Applicator, into the Solution Finish and apply a small amount to the desired surface.

4. Wipe Off Excess: Use a clean microfiber towel, such as the Ultra Rip N' Rag XL Multi-Purpose Microfiber Towels, to wipe off any excess Solution Finish, leaving a dry, matte finish.

5. Repeat as Needed: For best results, apply multiple thin coats of Solution Finish, allowing each layer to fully soak in before adding the next.

6. Seal it with "Over the Top": Once you're satisfied with the restored appearance, apply a layer of the Solution Finish Over the Top Plastic Sealer to lock in the benefits and provide long-lasting protection.

By following these steps and using the right tools, you'll be able to breathe new life into your car's exterior trim and keep it looking its best for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Solution Finish be used on tires?

While Solution Finish works great on a variety of exterior plastics, rubbers, and vinyls, Chris doesn't recommend using it on tires. He suggests there are better, more specialized products out there for tire dressing and protection.

How long does Solution Finish last?

One of the standout features of Solution Finish is its impressive longevity. With proper application and maintenance, the product can last 8-12 months on a vehicle's exterior trim. This is thanks to its unique blend of UV-blocking ingredients that shield the plastic from further damage and degradation.

Can Solution Finish be used on oxidized or clear-coated paint?

Chris cautions against letting Solution Finish dry on the paint. If any Solution Finish gets on the paint, it's best to wipe it off immediately. For vehicles with oxidized or clear-coated paint, it's important to be extra careful, as the product can potentially absorb into the paint and cause issues.

How does Solution Finish compare to silicone-based dressings?

Unlike silicone-based dressings that merely mask the problem, Solution Finish actually penetrates deep into the plastic to revive its original color and luster. While silicone dressings can provide a temporary "wet" look, they eventually wear off, leaving the plastic vulnerable to further oxidation and fading. Solution Finish, on the other hand, acts as a long-term "sunscreen" to protect the plastic from UV damage.

Revive and Protect Your Ride with Solution Finish

If you're tired of seeing your car's once-vibrant trim and plastics looking dull, faded, and neglected, it's time to discover the power of Solution Finish. This revolutionary product, developed by the experts at Solution Finish, offers a simple, effective, and long-lasting solution for restoring and protecting exterior trim components.

By following the proper application techniques, using the right tools, and pairing Solution Finish with the Over the Top Plastic Sealer, you can breathe new life into your car's appearance and keep it looking showroom-fresh for years to come. So why settle for a tired, weathered look when you can unlock the secret to reviving your ride's trim and making it shine like new?

Ready to get started? Be sure to check out the Solution Finish Trim Restorer, the Solution Finish Over the Top Plastic Sealer, and the other high-quality tools and accessories from The Rag Company to make your plastic restoration project a success. Your car's trim has never looked better!