Purple Haze

Hi. Usually when applying the 303 protectant to the roof it is early in the morning and the sun will dry it off, shining on the roof all day. Actually, the roof seems pretty dry very shortly after applying a thin coat of 303.

Now I'm reading info that 303 reps think it is very important to wipe the 303 dry right away.

What is the real story, what is your opinion?

Vanishing Point

Basically, I towel dry the top after allowing it to be absorbed. I believe that's what stated on the back of the bottle, I don't have a bottle with me to confirm this, I always apply more 303 to the seam/stitched areas.

Purple Haze

Yes, the back of the bottle stipulates very boldly to quickly wipe it dry. But, it doesn't seem "wet" in the first place! When I wipe it dry, my towel doesn't seem wet from the excess.

Vanishing Point

Ok, the wiping off of the 303 makes the top more repellant to moisture, contaminants, and bird droppings according to the makers of 303. I assume they mean that by wiping the top off you are further imbedding the 303 into the top which adds the aforementioned attributes.

my 2 cents.

Purple Haze

That makes a lot of sense. Thanks. New top, new habits.

wanabe

main reason is that its makes a mess of your paint if it runs off onto the paint---
like in rain

Purple Haze

Here is what I learned on Gt NFR's thread on the 3rd page of this forum: From a 303 rep:

"Better mention this. What happens if you don't completely dry the surface
when applying 303 A. Protectant? The excess, unbonded 303 solution sets on
the surface. After the water evaporates out this excess is the liquid 303
polymer. As a liquid it retains dampness which will ATTRACT dust/pollen/etc
instead of repelling it as is promised on the label. If wiped completely dry
when applied, however, this removes the excess and causes the bonded 303
polymer to change form and become repellent...exactly what is desired.
Excess buffing of the treated surface with a dry cloth actually INCREASES
bonding, INCREASES repellency AND longevity."

alSpeed2k

Good to know!