What Is Poli Glow and How Does It Work?
Poli Glow® is a water-based acrylic polymer finish with UV inhibitors designed to restore a high-gloss appearance and help protect properly prepared fiberglass, gelcoat and other compatible exterior surfaces on boats and RVs. Poli Glow itself is the finishing and protective step in a larger restoration system—the oxidation and contamination must first be removed before Poli Glow is applied.
Is Poli Glow a Wax?
Poli Glow is not a traditional carnauba wax or conventional buff-and-wax product.
It is a water-based acrylic polymer that adheres to and seals the prepared surface, creating a high-gloss protective finish.
Instead of applying wax and buffing it to create the final shine, Poli Glow is applied in multiple thin coats and allowed to dry between applications.
Does Poli Glow Remove Oxidation?
The complete Poli Glow restoration system removes oxidation, but it is important to understand that Poli Glow itself should not simply be applied over an oxidized surface.
Surface preparation comes first.
Depending on the condition of the boat or RV:
Poli Prep® is used to thoroughly clean the surface and remove light to moderate oxidation, stains, dirt, grime, old wax and other detailing products.
Poli Ox® is used when additional oxidation-removing power is needed for moderate to heavy oxidation and stubborn staining.
The surface should be prepared until the chalky oxidized material is gone and the exterior appears uniformly dull without significant stains or blotches.
Only then is Poli Glow applied.
How Does Poli Glow Restore the Shine?
After oxidation has been removed, the underlying color may still look dull or bleached because the surface no longer has its glossy protective appearance.
Poli Glow is applied in multiple thin layers over the properly prepared surface.
As those layers build, the finish restores a deep glossy appearance while sealing and protecting the surface.
Poli Glow's current formula is designed to help protect against:
- Oxidation
- UV exposure
- Moisture
- Dirt
- Oil
- Environmental contamination
Does Poli Glow Require Buffing?
No electric buffer is required to apply Poli Glow.
The product is applied with the Poli-Mitt® applicator in thin vertical or horizontal strokes rather than circular buffing motions.
Each layer should be allowed to become dry and non-tacky before the next coat is applied.
The full finish requires approximately 48 hours to cure, during which the surface should be protected from rain and water exposure.
Where Can Poli Glow Be Used?
Poli Glow is designed for compatible surfaces including:
- Gelcoat
- Fiberglass
- Clear coat
- Compatible plastic and acrylic surfaces
- Painted metal
- Rubber moldings
Surface preparation requirements vary, and not every cleaner or oxidation-removal product is appropriate for every material.
Sensitive decals, graphics and painted surfaces should be protected or tested according to Poli Glow's instructions before restoration begins.
How Long Does Poli Glow Last?
Poli Glow is designed to be maintained rather than treated as a one-time permanent coating.
The finish should be regularly washed and inspected, and Poli Glow currently recommends maintenance coats at least annually.
A typical maintenance application includes approximately 3–4 coats of Poli Glow, although climate and exposure can change the required schedule.
With appropriate maintenance, Poli Glow states that the finish can last approximately five to six years before a complete removal and reapplication may be needed.
Can Poli Glow Be Removed?
Yes.
When a complete restoration cycle is eventually needed, Poli Strip® is designed to chemically remove the existing Poli Glow finish.
The surface can then be cleaned, any oxidation or staining can be addressed, and a fresh Poli Glow finish can be applied.
What Is the Complete Poli Glow Restoration Process?
The basic process is:
1. Clean and prepare the surface
Use the appropriate Poli Glow preparation products for the condition of the fiberglass or gelcoat.
2. Remove all oxidation
Continue preparation until the chalky material, stains and uneven oxidation have been removed.
3. Apply Poli Glow
Build the high-gloss protective finish using multiple thin coats.
4. Allow the finish to cure
Protect the surface from water for 48 hours.
5. Maintain the finish
Wash regularly, inspect the surface and add maintenance coats as necessary.
This combination of oxidation removal, surface restoration and ongoing protection is what makes Poli Glow a restoration system, rather than simply a bottle of wax or polish.
Related Questions
How do I restore badly oxidized fiberglass on a boat?
https://poliglow.com/pages/how-do-i-restore-badly-oxidized-fiberglass-on-a-boat
How do I restore faded fiberglass on an RV?
https://poliglow.com/pages/how-do-i-restore-faded-fiberglass-on-an-rv
Can oxidized gelcoat be restored without buffing?
https://poliglow.com/pages/can-oxidized-gelcoat-be-restored-without-buffing