High Spots Explained: What Are They and How to Prevent Them?
When applying ceramic coating, proper leveling and wiping are essential. One common installation issue detailers may encounter is called "high spots."
What Are High Spots?
High spots are areas where excess ceramic coating remains on the paint surface after application and does not level or get wiped properly.
After curing, these areas may appear as:
Dark patches
Uneven gloss
Cloudy or rainbow-like marks
Visible streaks under certain lighting
Why Do High Spots Happen?
Common causes include:
✔ Applying too much product
✔ Waiting too long before leveling
✔ Uneven wiping technique
✔ Working in areas that are too large
✔ High temperature or low humidity affecting flash time
How to Prevent High Spots?
To achieve an even coating finish:
✔ Apply a thin and uniform layer
✔ Work panel by panel
✔ Follow the recommended flash time
✔ Use proper lighting to inspect the surface
✔ Always level and wipe thoroughly
How to Fix High Spots?
Fresh High Spots (Before Full Curing)
If high spots are noticed shortly after application, they can usually be corrected easily:
Use a slightly damp microfiber towel to gently level and remove the excess coating.
Follow with a dry microfiber towel to polish the surface and restore an even finish.
Fully Cured High Spots
If the coating has fully cured, the excess layer becomes much harder to remove. In some cases, polishing may be required to level the surface and restore a uniform appearance.
