Auto detailing is a dynamic field that requires technicians to refine their skills. This involves learning how to use a range of cleaning products and tools as well as understanding the best ways to protect vehicles from harmful chemicals and environmental hazards.
Improves resale value – Experienced detailers are aware of market standards and customer preferences, so they can help the owner of a vehicle improve its condition. This can significantly increase its resale value when the time comes to trade it in.
Paint
As mentioned above, one of the primary purposes of professional detailing services is to prevent paint oxidation, which will eventually lead to break through of clear coat (and ultimately a full repaint). A detailers primary goal is to protect the base coat and other paint layers from this type of damage.
Typically, this is done by means of a series of cleaning and decontamination steps that reveal the true condition of surface materials and eliminate products or contamination that may hide or mask imperfections. This type of preparation is especially important before a physical paint correction process, as contaminants can dramatically reduce quality and/or efficiency of work and increase service costs for the customer.
Depending on the level of restoration and protection desired, detailers often choose to add an extra layer of clarity and durability to their finishing work by applying a ceramic coating to the surface of the vehicle. This nanotechnology-based protection is far superior to waxes and sealants in terms of longevity, types of protection, gloss enhancement, and water and dirt repellency.
Upholstery
A portable, self-contained cleaning machine that delivers cleaning solution or rinse water to a surface being cleaned, then immediately returns the surface clean and dry with concentrated vacuum action. It’s a staple piece of equipment used by detailing professionals for heavily soiled surfaces like carpet and fabric seats.
Upholstery fabrics are thicker and heavier than the textiles used for clothing, drapes and tablecloths, and can be made from natural fibres such as cotton, wool or silk or synthetic materials like acetate or olefin. They are typically abrasion resistant and easy to maintain.
Upholsterers may consult with clients to understand their preferences and requirements, then use pattern-making skills to ensure upholstery fabric fits furniture frames precisely. They also use sewing skills to add piping or trim, sew seams and create cushion covers that look polished and professional.
Interior
The interior of a car is made from a variety of materials such as synthetic fiber carpeting and upholstery, natural leather, carbon fiber plastics and wood. Cleaning these components requires different techniques such as vacuuming and steam-cleaning. The interior cabin may also be decontaminated using automotive clay to remove bound contaminants such as tar and iron fallout.
The specialized equipment and products used in auto detailing can add to the cost of the service. However, it reduces the risk of rework and provides a higher return on investment. It also saves customers time by eliminating the need to drive to a car detail shop and wait while the work is performed.
If you’re planning to sell your car, getting it detailed regularly will increase its value and make it more attractive to potential buyers. It will also help you get a better trade-in offer from a dealer when it’s time to replace it. A clean, fresh-smelling interior can also improve the overall driving experience.
Exterior
When you’re in the market for an auto detail, it’s important to find a professional with experience in the type of work you need. Experience with vehicles of different shapes and sizes is crucial, as is a good understanding of the best products to use.
A detailed exterior can protect the resale value of your vehicle. It can help to get rid of-or at least reduce-surface scratches that are caused by weather damage and outdoor contaminants, such as tar, bugs, and dirt.
When detailing the exterior, it’s recommended to start with a pre-wash inspection to identify any issues that may need attention later on. It’s also helpful to follow a task order for efficiency. For example, cleaning filthy door jambs before washing the body of the car prevents contamination from dripping onto clean paint. Finally, it’s important to clay the car after the contact wash is complete. It can remove all remaining contaminants from the paintwork.