Why Exterior Detailing Matters

Road film, salt, rail dust, bug acids, and UV degrade finishes fast. Left alone, contamination builds up, clear coat loses gloss, and plastics chalk. Our process removes bonded fallout and restores slickness so protection bonds properly and lasts longer.

• ✨ Gloss that looks wet in sun and clean under shade
• 🛡 Protection that beads, sheets, and resists grime
• 🧽 Faster wash times and less towel contact
• 💰 Better resale photos and inspection results

Our Exterior Process, Step by Step

1. Pre-Rinse & Foam: Loosen grit to reduce contact marring.
2. Two-Bucket Hand Wash: Fresh mitts for uppers and lowers, grit guards, pH-neutral shampoo.
3. Contact-Point Detail: Emblems, fuel door, window edges, badges, and grills with soft brushes.
4. Chemical Decon: Iron remover targets embedded ferrous particles from brakes and rails.
5. Mechanical Decon: Clay bar or synthetic media lifts bonded contamination to a glassy surface.
6. Drying: Flood rinse, blower assist, then plush microfiber to minimize towel drag.
7. Polish (as needed): Single-stage refinement knocks down wash haze and boosts clarity.
8. Protection: Wax, polymer sealant, or ceramic options matched to your goals.
9. Finish Work: Trim conditioning, exhaust tip polish, glass cleaned in and out as selected.

We scale aggressiveness to paint condition. If the finish is soft or thin, we prioritize least-invasive correction for maximum long-term health.

Wheels, Tires, Trim, and Glass

• Wheels & Tires: Dedicated brushes, pH-appropriate chemistry, and satin, sling-free dressings.
• Wheel Faces & Barrels: Iron remover plus agitation for brake dust; sealant for easier future cleanup.
• Exterior Plastics: UV-resistant conditioners to revive color and slow fading.
• Glass: Streak-free clean; optional rain-repellent that improves wet-weather visibility.
• Headlights: See Headlight Restoration for clarity and safety.

Paint Protection Options

Protection is about chemistry, durability, and upkeep. We match products to how you drive, park, and wash.

• Premium Wax (1–2 months): Rich warmth and fast application. Great for show weekends and short intervals.
• Polymer Sealant (3–6 months): Strong beading, slick feel, and improved detergent resistance. Ideal for daily drivers.
• Spray Sealant/SiO2 Topper (2–4 months): Quick maintenance layer that refreshes beading between larger services.
• Entry Ceramic (6–12 months): Hardened film for sharper water behavior and stronger chemical resistance.
• Multi-Year Ceramic (up to 3 years): Highest durability with pronounced water behavior and easier wash cycles. Requires paint prep and polishing for best bond.

We explain maintenance for each option: safe washes, neutral shampoos, and towel technique to keep the surface slick and mar-free.

Polishing: What You Need, Not More

Most vehicles only need a single-stage polish to clear wash haze and brighten the finish. Multi-stage correction removes deeper defects but takes time and clear coat. We recommend the lightest pass that delivers the visual bump you want without unnecessary material removal.

• Single-Stage: One pad and polish. Noticeable gloss gain and clarity improvement.
• Two-Stage: Cut then refine. For heavier swirls, oxidation, or neglected paint.
• Spot Correction: Targeted passes on door handles, trunk ledges, or isolated marks.

Seasonal Care That Works Here

Local weather drives the plan. We tune process and products by season so the finish stays protected and washing stays simple.

• Winter: Brine and sand removal, frequent topper to keep beading strong, wheel protection to resist salt.
• Spring: Pollen and tree sap cleanup, clay and seal, fresh trim conditioning after freeze-thaw cycles.
• Summer: Bug and tar pre-treatment, UV-focused protection, glass repellent for storm visibility.
• Fall: Pre-winter decon and sealant or ceramic refresh to face the first salting ready.

Maintenance Between Details

• Touchless Rinse First: Knock off loose grit before contact.
• Two-Bucket Method: Separate wash and rinse with grit guards; use dedicated mitts.
• Dry Safely: Flood rinse, then blower or plush towels. Avoid chamois drag.
• pH-Neutral Shampoo: Keeps protection intact and towel glide high.
• Quick Topper: Refresh beading monthly or after automatic washes.

Ask about a quarterly plan. Light, regular upkeep beats heavy recovery work and keeps costs predictable.

Choose the Right Exterior Package

• Wash & Seal: Safe wash, decon light, and a sealant for quick durability.
• Gloss Refresh: Wash, full decon, single-stage polish, and sealant or entry ceramic.
• Correct & Protect: Wash, deep decon, spot or two-stage correction, and multi-year ceramic.

For a complete reset, pair with Interior Detailing or book a Full Detail. See add-ons like Trim Restoration and Headlight Restoration for finishing touches.

Exterior Detailing FAQ

How long does an exterior detail take?

Typical wash-and-seal runs 1.5–2.5 hours. Add time for decon and polishing. Ceramic coating packages take longer for prep and cure.

Is polishing safe for my paint?

Yes, when done conservatively. We measure results and use the lightest effective method to preserve clear coat.

Will protection survive automatic washes?

Sealants and ceramics resist detergents better than wax. Expect faster topper intervals if you use automatic tunnels often.

Do you need power or a hose?

No. Our mobile unit is self-contained with water and on-board power. Driveways, apartment lots, and office parking are workable.

🗺 Our Service Area