Mark,
I find leaving the pads complete is better, the solution once absorbed into the pad seems to give a better coverage , whether this is right or wrong !!!!!! i,m not sure , just my preference.
The foamimg ability of surround is not as good as cimex encaps own solution, but better than rotobrite, i do now add a small amount of craftex high foamimg dry shampoo, this does help , as far as i am aware this goes not affect the properties of encapsulation as i have tried the saucer test to see the chrystalisation.
Geoff