Why a DA Polisher Should Always Follow a Rotary in Paint Correction by detailer and friend Kyle / KAD …

For years, many professional detailers and hobbyists alike have relied on rotary polishers as the workhorse for paint correction. Rotary machines excel at cutting through imperfections and achieving significant results quickly. Their ability to remove heavy defects and tackle edge work with precision makes them invaluable tools in any detailer’s arsenal. However, the reality is that just because you can finish with a rotary—and have been doing so for years—doesn’t mean you should. Here’s why incorporating a dual-action (DA) polisher in your workflow is critical for achieving a flawless finish.

Understanding the Nature of Rotary Marks

Rotary polishers operate on a direct-drive motion, creating a circular, high-speed action that aggressively cuts into the paint surface. While effective for leveling scratches, oxidation, and other imperfections, this aggressive action can leave subtle, yet distinct, patterns on the paintwork—often referred to as holograms or rotary marks.

Even when these marks are not immediately visible to the naked eye under shop lighting, they can become evident in direct sunlight or under certain angles. These marks occur because the rotary’s single-axis motion doesn’t evenly distribute heat and pressure, which can create uneven leveling of the paint’s surface.

The Role of a DA Polisher in Paint Correction

Unlike a rotary, a dual-action polisher combines both a rotating and oscillating motion. This dual movement mimics the randomness of hand polishing, ensuring that pressure and heat are evenly distributed across the surface. When used as a follow-up to rotary correction, a DA polisher refines the surface, removes any residual rotary marks, and ensures a consistent, defect-free finish.

The Myth: “Rotary Marks Aren’t There If I Don’t See Them”

It’s easy to assume that if the finish looks flawless under shop lighting, the job is done. But the truth is, every time we correct paint, we’re leveling the surface to a plane that our eyes can perceive as smooth. In reality, paint is full of microscopic peaks and valleys. Rotary polishing may appear to eliminate these imperfections, but it often leaves behind subtle inconsistencies that can only be resolved with the nuanced action of a DA polisher.

Why Proper Technique Matters

Critics of DA polishers sometimes claim that they leave their own marks or lack the cutting power for serious correction. While it’s true that improper technique or poor pad and polish selection can lead to subpar results, when used correctly, a DA polisher will not leave polishing marks. Instead, it will refine the surface and enhance clarity without the risk of introducing further defects.

The Bottom Line: A Holistic Approach

The best approach to paint correction is recognizing the strengths of each tool and using them synergistically:

1. Rotary Polisher for Cutting: Use the rotary for heavy correction, particularly on edges and areas requiring significant leveling. Its aggressive nature is unmatched for tackling deep scratches and severe defects.

2. DA Polisher for Finishing: Always follow with a DA polisher to refine the surface, eliminate holograms, and achieve a swirl-free, flawless finish.

Final Thoughts

Paint correction is both an art and a science, requiring precision and attention to detail. While rotary polishers are powerful tools, relying solely on them for finishing work can leave subtle marks that compromise the overall result. Incorporating a DA polisher into your process ensures a finish that stands up to scrutiny under all lighting conditions.

By embracing a holistic approach to paint correction, you’ll not only achieve better results but also elevate your craft to a professional standard that speaks for itself.