Do I need clear coat on carbon fiber, or will it yellow over time?

UV exposure will dull the finish without protection. A clear coat layer locks in gloss and shields the weave from fading. Sand the surface lightly and apply your chosen clear coat before installation for long-term color retention.

How do I seal the grille edges to prevent water or debris from getting behind the weave?

Apply edge sealant or automotive silicone along the backside perimeter where the grille meets the bumper opening. This prevents moisture from creeping into the weave during wash or heavy rain and keeps the panel rigid at stress points.

Is the carbon fiber wet or dry layup, and does that matter for durability?

Hand-laid construction uses vacuum bagging for a tight resin cure, resulting in a panel that resists cracking and impact better than lighter layup methods. This is the same process used in high-end builds where the grille sees real road time.