What is car detailing? It is the process of keeping the vehicle’s surface in its most pristine and blemish-free condition. The process involves cleaning visible and invisible contaminants on the interior, polishing the exterior, and applying protective surface protectant coatings. The process can be a lucrative business for those who love car detailing. Here are some tips and tricks to make your car look as good as new. Invest in a detail business:
Taking a car wash a step further
If you’re starting a car wash business, one way to increase your profits is to add more services. One example of an add-on product is gasoline. A car wash that provides customers with gas can make up to $48 billion a year. However, this may not be feasible for every car wash. A creative marketing strategy is to partner with other local businesses. This way, your car wash can be exposed to new customers.
Another way to enhance the customer experience is to offer complimentary chauffeur services. This way, your customers can leave their cars with you in the hands of a professional while you clean them. Additionally, this will help remove the myth that vehicle washing takes time and is difficult for busy people. For example, you can provide free transportation to and from work. This will prevent clients from having to waste time driving to and from the car wash.
Using surface protectant coatings
A ceramic-based paint protectant is the latest advancement in car detailing technology. Initially only available for professional detailers, this product is now more consumer-friendly. Its unique coating provides high-level protection that can withstand water spots, environmental pollutants, and car-washes. These finishes last anywhere from three to five years. The cost of ceramic coatings depends on the type of car and the labor rate of the professional detailer. The application process can cost up to $2,000, depending on the car and the level of prep work.
Most popular paint protection products work by bonding to reactive sites on the vehicle’s surface. Once the film is applied to the car’s surface, it cures to a glass-like state at ambient temperatures. The crystalline film retracts during its cure process, providing scratch resistance. The films are chemically inert, and the paint can be protected without the use of any additional fillers or polymers.
Cleaning the wheels and tires first
When it comes to car detailing, cleaning the wheels and tires is an especially important task. These areas are often the dirtiest parts of the vehicle, as virtually any contaminant that gets close to the rotating surfaces will get transferred to the rest of the vehicle. This step is particularly important for cars that haven’t been detailed in a long time or have recently returned from a 4×4 mud-slinging adventure.
When washing the wheels and tires, be sure to use a suitable cleaner for each tire. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the wheels and tires are clean. Scrub away any brake dust and dirt, making sure to use a high-quality car detailing towel. Don’t use the same towel for both tires and wheels, as this can cause water spots and brake dust residue. Once the wheels and tires are clean, dry them thoroughly with a quality car detailing towel.
Investing in a detailing business
While starting a car detailing business is not difficult, you may need some capital to get started. You can purchase a starter kit or buy equipment. If you don’t have the capital to start a business on your own, you’ll need to secure investors. You’ll also need a place to work and an area for your business. Depending on the type of business you choose, you can invest anywhere from $1,900 to over $14,000.
When establishing your business, you’ll have to decide if you’d prefer to hire employees or work with contractors. An independent contractor means you have more control over the employee, less risk, and lower expenses. Make sure you create a job description for your employees or contractors so they will know exactly what the job entails. You’ll also need to get a business license in your state.