Frequently Asked Questions What can I expect in terms of defect removal? The final level of correction depends on the initial state of the paintwork and the amount of time you wish to pay for. As a guide most medium sized cars (e.g. BMW 3 series) can be corrected to a significant improvement 90-95% in 2 days. If the vehicles paintwork is particularly severe then additional time may be required.
What about stone chips? Larger stone chips can be touched in with a touch up paint to form a 'blob'. The blob can then be sanded back and polished up. This works much better with solid colours than metallic’s as the metal flake can sink in the blob and not produce an even finish. Either way they will look better.Tiny stone chips the kind that are the size of a grain of salt will be reduced visibly by machine polishing as it rounds off their sharp edges which reflect the sunlight.
Do we need a dry day to detail? Ideally yes, unless you have a garage that is large enough to work in – typically if the car doors can be opened with the car in the garage sufficient space exists. ‘The shine factory’ can provide a professional grade gazebo which is heavy enough to withstand moderate winds and rain.
How do I maintain the finish? Careful hand washing is essential to maintaining the swirl free finish. Automatic car washes, dealer ‘free’ washes and the local hand wash are best avoided! A pre rinse with a hosepipe or snow foam, the two bucket method*, a lambs wool wash mitt and waffle weave drying towels will ensure future defects are minimised. Advice is always given during and after a detail.
How long will the finish last? Defects in paint work are permanently removed rather than ‘hidden or filled’. In ‘theory’ the finish will last forever. However poor washing and polishing techniques can instil new swirl marks/scratches. See below for advice on how to reduce/eliminate these.
What wax do you use? After polishing the paintwork is sealed and or waxed to ensure it is protected and easy to clean. Raceglaze Black label concours car wax is my go to car wax, however a wide variety of waxes are available.
Does machine polishing remove paint? Yes, typically between 2-5 microns of paint is removed per detail. The average thickness of automotive paintwork (total film build) is around 80-130 microns. A paint thickness gauge is used to denote the thickness of paintwork and to determine the safe amount that can be removed. If the paint is too thin some defects will always be left in rather than achieving total defect removal which may compromise the paintwork.
Do you do other aspects of detailing? Yes ‘the shine factory’ are expert at detailing all parts of a car and additional services will be priced upon request.
Do you have a unit? No, we come to you. The Mini Club'van' is fully equipped for detailing purposes. We simply require a source of water and electricity and we will provide the rest!
