Plane Detailing Extends the Life of Your Aircraft
Are you looking to improve the appearance of your aircraft and protect its exterior? Whether flying through the skies or parked on the tarmac, planes are affected by weather conditions that can contribute to exterior damage. But how does plane detailing work to extend the life of your aircraft?
Sunlight and UV rays can speed the rate of corrosion and paint fading on any metal surface. As a plane owner, hanger owner, or corporate aviation firm, preventative measures serve to protect your airplane’s (or your aviation fleet’s) finish from the destructive effects of weather damage. Polishing the exterior of your aircraft will not only keep your plane in pristine condition, but it will also likely increase the life of your paint and reduce corrosion and oxidation.
In the past, polishing a plane was labor intensive with expensive rubbing compounds and rotary equipment that left swirl marks. BuffPro offers a non-rotary, swirl-free electric buffer and an innovative polishing system that will give you a protective mirror shine in half the time.
No matter the age of your aircraft, the following tips and tricks for plane detailing with the BuffPro line of aviation products will help you get the mirror finish you want:
#1 Prepare the Surface for Polishing
Using warm water and a mild detergent, clean the surface you wish to polish. Washing the exterior of the aircraft removes residues and contaminants that can get trapped under the polishing compound and become embedded into the surface.
Taking the time to prepare the exterior also allows you to examine the surface condition for areas of corrosion and erosion that need repair.
Finally, tape off the leading edges of the wings and any ports to keep polish from entering.
#2 Apply Polishing Compound
Next, apply a strip or two of polish onto the surface you will work on. We recommend working on one small section of the plane at a time. For example, focus first on the nose and then work your way to the rear of the fuselage.
Try applying the polish in a hashtag pattern across the surface, horizontally first and then vertically.
#3 Use an Electric Buffer for a Professional Finish
When using the BuffPro buffer, start spreading the polish on the lowest setting over the area you’re working on. Once you’ve spread the polish, increase the buffer’s speed, and slowly move it back and forth across the surface until it’s shiny or the polish compound is used up.
Lastly, wipe away any excess polish. When you have finished, your aircraft should have a mirror finish and protection from corrosion.
How Often is Plane Detailing Recommended?
We recommend polishing your aircraft about three times a year or whenever you notice cloudiness, oxidation, or water spots on the exterior surface. We also suggest a thorough polish before putting your plane in storage for an extended period.
By following this schedule, you can remove spots and other surface damage before they become problems and ensure continued longevity for your aircraft.
BuffPro is All You Need to Keep Your Aviation Fleet Buffed & Polished
With all the curves, angles, and different materials, polishing a plane isn’t easy. This is especially true when attempted by hand or with a traditional rotary buffer.
The BuffPro polisher drum action works smoothly around all surfaces of your aircraft. Also, we have designed the polishing compound for use on painted surfaces, metals, fiberglass, gel-coated surfaces, resins, and more. Furthermore, the polisher efficiently applies less compound without waste and doesn’t leave swirls and streaks. Your plane will have the high-gloss, durable shine that you want. And, with the BuffPro buffer, you can complete the job in 50% less time than it takes with a traditional rotary buffer.
To give your plane a professional shine, order your kit online today (we have super savings on BuffPro starter kits). If you have questions about which kit to start with, call our customer service professionals for assistance at 1-800-699-4160. We are standing by ready to help!
