Taking pride in your rims is something we can all relate to, particularly if it is a ride that came at a cost. Regardless of the type of vehicle however, polishing wheel rims is a necessary task, both for upkeep and appearance. To apply this action correctly, it should be done with time on your side as well as a few things to help you along the way. Be Prepared This will obviously not be possible for everyone, but if you have the ability, remove the tires completely to give the rims a thorough cleansing. This well help in the wash angles you use and give it a ‘factory’ aesthetic.You should also have as many microfiber towels as you can manage, as even terrycloth is preferable over those of the paper variety. These towels will not only bring out the shine, but be less harsh on the wheels altogether.
Rinse The Surface With Water Before polishing the wheel rims, rinse every crevice with water. Not a lot of force is needed for this cause unless the grime is deeply embedded. Power washers should ONLY be used if your manufacturer has approved the rims to be able to handle that amount of push. While you can use traditional soap for this step, you are better off using cleaners specifically designed for rims. Oven cleaners can also provide some help, but make sure there is not a clear coat on the wheels, as the two will not react kindly to one another. Eliminate Imperfections Use a foam painter’s pad, get rid of ‘curb rash’ and pitting, which are essentially areas that have been altered by your car touching the curb or gaining scratches along the way. Unless your wheel rims maintain a clear finish, dry paper is advised because it can smooth problem areas with ease. Remove Oxidation Your wheel rims need to shine, and to do so ‘brightening’ agents are used to do literally what they sound like. A microfiber cloth to apply this cleaner will help you immensely in getting it evenly distributed. Polish Inside Out Using either polish paste or a liquid, apply it with your towel from the inside out; meaning start in small strokes while expanding outwardly until the whole wheel has been addressed. The use of a toothbrush can also help tricky places. Once you are satisfied there is no more built up residue, the ‘finish’ polish should be placed on the rims. Rub them gently until you no longer see ‘cloudiness.’ This means the agent has been absorbed, and if done correctly, should shine a bright reflection telling you that your mission has been accomplished. Conclusion Polishing wheel rims can be done by most, but the more you do it yourself the more you will realize there is a learning curve involved to get the most out of your sparkle. Auto detailers apply the perfect polish, products, technique and exhibit uniform craft in how they get rims to stand out and look as good as new. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-polish-wheel-rims/
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Tires are messy business, but just because it is dirty work does not mean there isn’t a way to circumvent most of the dust and debris and have them looking shinier than ever. What is fascinating about making tires sparkle is that there are so many different ‘word of mouth’ ways it can be accomplished. Some methods are old school, and some use state of the art cleaners being rolled out to auto stores now. So what are some of the ideas used?
Prep The Tires Before any restorative solution is undergone, your tires should be washed as thoroughly as possible. Applying products to a dirty tire is not only counter-intuitive, it is a complete waste of time. Power washing tires is most effective, as the sheer force involved removes all the particles that have accumulated for months. If you do not have access to one of these units, garden hose spraying or a drive thru car wash will do. If you are serious about making the shine last, it is advantageous to have auto detailers complete the process from beginning to end. Use Pledge Pledge is an old method that is making a comeback among auto enthusiasts. Pledge, or similar cleaners like it, are primarily based to clean and coat furniture. The reason some people use them on tires is because it leaves a finish less greasy than some detergents specializing in tire shine. Opponents to Pledge state that sometimes it can make tires crack, but this is not a frequent occurrence. Shoe Polish Shoe polish has been used for years, particularly because it makes tires appear jet black. This polish is only a temporary solution and does not work well for the long haul. Additionally, because it is not designed with tires in mind, it does not have restorative properties that professional cleaners incorporate. Baby Oil, Water, Dish Soap This is a homemade recipe that makes tires shine dramatically with the use of the baby oil. Similar to the furniture cleaner and shoe polish, it is one that will only highlight your tire, not encapsulate the sparkle. That being said, it is the most inexpensive of all alternatives, and can be whipped up in minutes from components added around the house. Castor oil can also be used in place of baby oil, but its application must be used with a damp cloth. Castor oil also needs the tire to be primed with alcohol beforehand. This guarantees that the oil’s shine will linger. Tire Coating And Wax The best solution to bring out the character of every tire is using quality, professional grade tire solutions that are typically acrylic based. After cleaning the surface of the tire, apply the tire cleaner to a foam applicator pad. A microfiber towel can be used, but this is not ideal because you will likely have to throw it out afterward. Generously rub in the solution until you see a faint reflection in the tire. Using tire cleaners that are cleared by experts are fantastic because they not only restore, but they seal as well. The coat is designed to make the tire look wet and right out of the car wash no matter how long you have been driving. Conclusion Making tires shine depends on your budget, but using pro auto detailers will guarantee you can match the highest grade solution with your particular type of tire. Experts also know how frequently to apply the solution to make sure your tires never lose their gloss, color or appeal. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-make-tyres-shine/ Because having your car re-painted is one of the most expensive things a person can do with their vehicle, almost everyone at one point or another has wanted to make their exterior look as new as possible. Be warned that if you want it done to perfection, it should really be handled by auto detailers, but can be accomplished on your own if you so choose. The important thing to keep in mind is that to make your car’s paint appear as if it is just off the lot, it is a multiple step process that takes patience.
A Clean Car Is Your Canvas Just like you would paint on a blank page, you need your vehicle as clean as possible before making your paint look fresh. This is done initially by a thorough wash, using detergents and cleaners. It is up to your make and model as to which will procure the most solid results, but the point is there can be zero foreign particles on the exterior. Using a microfiber cloth will also help you in this exercise. Its soft, smooth feel is gentle on the body of the automobile, but forceful enough to make a difference where needed. Use Detailing Clay To Your Advantage Detailing clay is a valuable tool in your arsenal that is underused because most people don’t know exactly what it accomplishes. The incorporation of clay smooths rough bumps and edges on your vehicles shell. Why is this important? Because beyond the eyesore it creates and the value it robs your car of, it makes it easier for impurities to get embedded into the outside. The deeper the dirt is in your finish, the less ‘new’ your paint will appear. Detailing clay also makes paint look fresh because imperfections negatively impact how a light shines on a car. When you see a brand new car off the lot, there is a reason why it looks as if it just came from the assembly line. It has not been hurt by the elements, and has not had the time to collect debris and scratches. Polish With Precision Using a buffing pad, or the aforementioned microfiber towel, apply a thin layer of polish in a systematic fashion leaving no inch untouched. If you have the luxury of using an electric buffing tool, apply gently, as not much force is needed for the polish to resonate. The polish you strategically place will work wonders in restoring your paint’s aesthetic, and will also help with areas that have faded previously. Protect Your Paint Finally, a sealant wax will make your vehicle’s paint look as new as the day you acquired it, if done correctly. Using gloves, place the wax all over the exterior, paying special mind to the hood. Sealant waxes in essence ‘trap’ the cleaners and polish products you used, making sure they do not come off in the next wash or fade immediately when exposed to harsh temperatures. Most importantly, this sealant will make your car paint look wet, giving it the feel that it just came from the factory. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-make-car-paint-look-new/ Car waxing is crucial in maintaining phenomenal integrity to your automobile’s body, but there are varying opinions on how long each process will last before it must be undergone again. Some enthusiasts believe waxing only needs to be a few times a year, while others think every couple of weeks is wise. But what are the variables that solidly determine how long a thorough waxing can display its desired benefits?
Make And Model The type of car you have plays a large role in how frequently it needs to be waxed, or more simply put, how long each session will procure positive results. An older exterior, particularly a weathered one, has great difficulty holding a shine because there are so many impurities on the surface. These impurities negatively reflect light, which highlights the damage of your vehicle in an unflattering way. Placing wax on ancient automobiles is like trying to polish dirt. At best you are covering the problem temporarily, and in actuality you are literally just spreading the dust. New cars can hold a waxing for a few weeks if it is properly taken care of. Regardless of the vehicle type, waxing is most successful for longer periods when the surface is cleaned methodically BEFORE the substance is applied. Type Of Wax Used Just like there is high class detergent and ‘dollar store’ quality alternatives, the same is true of types of car wax. Different waxes serve different purposes, contrary to popular belief. Some waxes are merely intended to hold a brief shine, sometimes even for just days. Others specialize in hiding imperfections on the model. The most coveted waxes are the ones that bring out a shine while making the car look new and overall improving its value. In several cases the most expensive wax isn’t necessary, as those that apply it are more important. The Elements Exposure is the number one cause of needing to undergo a new waxing. If your vehicle is stored in covered spaces or a parking garage for extended periods, waxing lasts longer. That said, it is a misconception that an awning or cover is all that it takes. Even in an enclosed space, varying temperatures, particularly cold ones, can negatively impact your waxing. To lengthen your latest wax, having your automobile outside in the blistering heat or bitter cold would not be prudent. To put it simply, the more your car is outdoors, the shorter the wax will last. Just like heat rays have no mercy on our skin, they are ruthless on vehicle bodies as well. Frequency Of Waxing One wonders why frequency would matter when discussing how long a wax session can hold, but the truth of the matter is that if you follow a routine, your car shines for longer periods. In fact, regularly placing wax strategically can add years of life to your car, and make it less susceptible to foreign debris. Conclusion Car waxes are most fruitful when applied by a professional, because auto detailers know how to use the proper techniques to reinvigorate a finish. They are also trained in getting the most out of the waxing product, and where to strategically place it on the exterior. If an expert applies this process with some degree of regularity and as part of a well thought out detailing routine, in the future, each shine will last weeks and sometimes months longer. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-long-does-car-waxing-last/ If you have ever searched the internet seeking the answer to this question, you have likely come across both ‘yes’ and ‘no’, which can be incredibly frustrating as a car owner. There are a few factors that come into play to accurately resolve this conundrum, so it is wise to know what exactly you are doing. What Kind Of Wash? To be clear, you CAN wash your car after tinting your windows, within reason. This is because window tint is applied to the inside of the windows, not the exterior. So if this is the case, why the caveat? A simple car wash on the outside can be applied immediately after a window tint, only if the seal around each window is secure. Moisture is its enemy, and will undo an expensive job in minutes if exposed. If you want to be extremely careful not to negatively affect the tint, it is smart to have professionals manage all cleaning activities.
Windows Up! You can also wash your car after tinting if you do not plan to move your windows up and down. It cannot be stressed enough that this should be avoided. Not only will it damage the tint, it will be harder to fix as well. How Is The Wash Applied? You may have hand washing in mind, or be planning to go through a drive-thru wash, but of paramount importance is that whatever cleaner or detergent used is not ammonia based. Those that incorporate ammonia are the enemy of tinting, and even if you are clearing the outside only, can get through the seal and ruin your job. Take Your Time While coin washes are fine, you are playing with fire a bit if you are unsure of how well your vehicle shields soap and water. Washing by hand using a microfiber towel is the most beneficial way to clean the car, and this is also true of the interior when the grace period has passed. Some people incorrectly assume that just using water to wash the inside is reasonable if it is absent of ammonia. Water alone will not destroy a tint, but will certainly compromise its application if it was freshly placed. Pros Are Pros For A Reason If you feel there is any gray area to applying a wash but are too proud of your tint to risk its longevity, it is recommended that you have an auto detailer complete the process for you. Not only do they have the right cleaners that do not affect the job (even through broken seals), they will also provide you more information on just how long you can wait with your particular type of tint before cleaning the interior as well. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/can-you-wash-car-after-tinting-windows/ Chrome wheels are often an extension of the driver’s personality, and as such, should be taken care of delicately and with detail. The incorporation of chrome unfortunately makes these types of wheels susceptible to wearing and chipping, or at the very least, losing their shine. Luckily, there are ways to soundly protect them and increase their longevity as well. So what is the best protection for chrome wheels? Give Your Wheels A Bath Before a solution can enclose the agents on chrome to protect the wheels, they always need to be rinsed first. Getting rid of brake dust and particles will allow the surface to easily obtain the chemicals and use them accordingly.
Chrome Wheel Cleaner Not to be confused with water, chrome wheel cleaners are detergents specific to this type of material. These are found in the form of sprays and gels, and their purpose is to safely protect the finish without using any acid. All of these chemicals are non-acidic and safe. Use A Wheel Brush A wheel brush is different than a paint brush in that it is usually longer and almost looks like a duster. It finely executes thorough cleaning by getting into small cracks of the chrome wheels and disposing of foreign elements. Other brushes can be used, but a wheel brush is recommended because it can be used on big spots or small spaces just as easily. Use Wheel Clay Wheel clay shares a perfect marriage with chrome wheels because the substance lifts off embedded impurities that are naked to the eye swiftly. Clay works wonders at molding to any shape however awkward, and making the surface smooth and ready for polishing. Remember, wheel clay is not the same as detailing clay. The latter makes its name by going over the body of a vehicle. The former goes on the wheel. Do not confuse the two as cross contamination can undo positive effects on the chrome. Polish Efficiently Using a chrome and metal polish, either apply it to an applicator pad, or use an electric polishing tool to cover the wheel. It is important to note that plastic chrome will not react to this detergent the same as metal. The big dogs in the chrome department offer chemicals designed for REAL chrome, so do not use them on substitutes. After the polish has engulfed the whole wheel, a wiping of a microfiber cloth will smooth out the finish you created. Wheel Glaze Also referred to as wheel waxes, they are the final task to protecting your chrome wheels. This should only be included once the polish has fully dried. Using a buffing motion, the applicator pad full of the solution will prevent the surface from dust and promote shininess for an extended period. Conclusion If you are smart enough to have a professional auto detailer take care of your chrome wheel needs, they will ensure that all you will need to restore them in the future is a regular and hassle free detailing regiment, as opposed to buying new ones altogether or swapping them out. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/best-protection-for-chrome-wheels/ It is best to think of a car’s exterior as its base shell, and to protect it fully, numerous layers are needed to guarantee the highest probability of effectiveness. Since these layers cannot all be applied at once, going through them one at a time will not only add value to your vehicle, but help show you how each serves their own purpose in making your automobile nearly impenetrable to foreign elements. Before undergoing the process of these layers, seeking advice on pricing and components involved from professionals is recommended.
Protecting the paintwork is a 3 step ordeal, starting with a clear film. Scotchguard and VentureShield are two brand examples that, when applied, resist stains and chipping from rocks. It is sometimes referred to as a ‘healing’ film, because occasionally some problem areas on the car like minor scratches can fade eventually due to the chemicals involved. Paint protection film is placed by expert auto detailers, and it wards off contaminants found in the air that can react negatively to your finish. Since the film is at the base of your car’s structure, it is vital that defects on the exterior are slim to (hopefully) none. Most of these films come with a warranty, so if you choose to invest in one, do your homework. Next is placing a coating down similar to Opti-Gloss coat. They differ from protection films by typically being made from ceramics and providing a more tough exterior. The right coating can last 5 years, or even longer, to give consumers an idea of how strong they are. Coating also has the advantage of rejecting deterioration due to chemicals. If you have ever been to a junkyard, you have probably seen vehicles that look as if they have been entirely corroded over. Coatings like CQuartz UK make automobiles appear as if they have been dipped in candy, as their luster is very noticeable. Coatings are not the same as waxing, for they bond with the surface of the car. Waxes are a simple, but very important layer. Protecting your paintwork is most successful when films and coatings are topped off with sealants. Brazilian carnauba in waxing agents serve to hold in finishes and have the color explode. Whenever you see a car’s aesthetic look wet or glowing, it has undoubtedly been waxed. Waxing and sealing are also integral to extending the life of the paint used to cover your car. The synthetic polymers added make certain that it will take extraordinary force to ruin your paint job. Proper protection to painted vehicles is one of the hardest undertakings consumers can make on their own. The reason for this is the price range is incredibly wide for coatings and films. Waxing and sealants vary in cost, but are typically in the same ballpark, whereas film can jump from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Consulting with a detailing expert and partaking in a regular auto detailing regiment can literally save you a pile of cash, in addition to having the assurance that the layer application will be applied to your paintwork successfully, and by experts. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/best-protection-for-car-paintwork/ Restoring wheel rims is a huge problem that few people have the time and energy to actually partake in. It can be a bit time consuming to perform in the beginning, but once you are well versed in it, becomes more painless in the future. Auto detailers are able to provide certain types of restoration to make wheel rims look like they were just pressed in a factory. Regardless of who is behind the wheel (pun intended) of fixing them, there are some tips to keep in mind:
Setup And Sanitize It is wise to wash your hands between each step of the process, as chemicals and debris from the rims themselves can irritate your skin. Additionally, having more than one microfiber towel handy is prudent. The reason having multiple as opposed to one is if a towel is covered in dirt, you obviously do not want to place it back on the same area you are trying to restore. Wheel Removal If you are serious about getting wheel rims to once again look in pristine condition, they need to be removed from the vehicle so they can get the attention they deserve. This will help with more reasons than just cleaning them better, as you will find out. Placing them each on a flat cardboard box will suffice. Smooth Is Ideal Sanding with ‘rough’ rubs is for a multitude of reasons: to clean the surface of unwanted debris that has accumulated along the way, and to rid it of unwanted paint. Smoothing the wheel rims is one of the most rushed tasks people typically take, however it is one of the most important components, as if not done to perfection, from this point on primer and paint will pick up and highlight every mistake you overlook. Prime For Paint It is now that BOTH sides of the rim should be primed by spraying it evenly. Sway the mist liberally on one side, and after it has dried, flip it to take care of the other. Using more than one coat of primer is acceptable if you are dealing with a stubborn rim that will not ‘take’ so easily. Paint With A System Once your primer is ready, the paint you want on your rim can be put on, being mindful of the fact you may need painter’s tape to close off areas you do not want the paint to spread. When the paint has dried as well, a clear coat should be used to hold the properties of the chemicals in and guarantee it will shine with a polish. Finishing Up If you have done everything meticulously, a thorough wipe with a microfiber towel should render your restoration complete. To truly make your ride appear brand new, use a tire cleaner to accentuate the work you have just done to your rims. Restoration of wheel rims is not easy, and especially in the paint steps, it would behoove you to inquire about auto detailing experts to see what level of restoration they can provide for your wheel rims. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-restore-wheel-rims/ Your car having the appearance of looking as if it just came out of a professional detail is coveted by so many because it instantly skyrockets its curb appeal, not to mention makes its aesthetic all the more pleasing. There is actually a process to accomplish this, usually done in a few simple steps. Of course if you want the clearest and brightest shine, using an auto detailer should be your top choice.
Likely a given, but before giving your vehicle a permanent glossy exterior, the car must be scrubbed thoroughly. This is for various reasons, but the most important of which is because the newly applied coatings will not hold as successfully if there are impurities on the outside. These impurities come in many forms, from airborne contaminants to brake dust and dirt. A drive thru car wash can accomplish this initial rinsing, but a hand wash from an expert is even better because more time can be spent on areas that are problematic. When you go through a coin operated wash, since it is a machine you do not have the freedom to force it to go over spaces that are especially dirty. A hand wash should include the use of a microfiber towel and detergents recommended by your automobile manufacturer. An alcohol IPA solution should then be worked into your car’s shell to eliminate the previous waxes and polishes that have taken place. Why is this vital? Because we want to place coating down at the core of the exterior, without lubricant or substance in between. If this step is skipped over, your coating will not bond properly, so it is worth the extra time. As you know, after a car wash, that ‘wet’ look disappears, and it is something we want to stay. After the IPA ‘bath’ has taken place, you will want to place a ceramic coating down, also known as ‘glass coating.’ Multiple layers should be applied after each layer has been given ample time to dry. This takes an hour or two apiece in most cases. Layering on vehicles is very important because each time a fresh coat is incorporated, it cures to make your vehicle appear more and more wet. After an initial glass coating is placed, you will start to see ‘glossy’ results in about 24 hours. With the application of more than one coat, each curing session will add to this shine. Using a brick and applicator pad, apply the final layer, known as ‘booster coating.’ This should not be rubbed on in between your standard ceramic coatings. When this is done, your vehicle should not be exposed to the elements, so covering it in an enclosed space is wise. Conclusion Even though the ‘wet paint’ look can be done at home, auto detailers are experts at making your vehicle look its best, because they can evenly distribute the coating; something most cannot do without practice. If you choose to tackle the project on your own, a good way to know you are ‘done,’ besides seeing its shine of course, is to take a towel and rub it along the side of the vehicle. If you hear no sound at all, it means the coating has cured and you have been successful in having it bond to the car. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/how-to-make-car-paint-look-wet/ The Car wash vs wash and wax question is an interesting topic to dive in to because both actions take place on a daily basis all over the world. Ultimately your needs will determine which is the more prudent path for you, but until then, what are the differences and advantages to both? What Is The Purpose Of A Simple Car Wash? Obviously, as the name implies, the act itself is desiring to get a clean vehicle. More specific than that though, a car wash is designed for one purpose: speed. If you have ever run your garden hose over your vehicle you know it takes more than a little water to thoroughly reduce the grime on its exterior. Car washes utilize directed water at high speeds to eliminate surface debris to the best of their ability. Soapy suds are added to give some semblance of a shine, but to say this is applied meticulously is a stretch.
Besides how quick the process is, the biggest upside to a bare bones car wash is its price. With a couple of bucks or even a few coins your vehicle can at worst look better than it did ten minutes before. The downside to a routine wash is that it is not going to protect your paint for the long haul. It is a temporary solution that will require more maintenance in the future, depending on the environment your car resides in. Wash And A Wax Mixing a waxing with a wash, especially when done by professional auto detailers, is more of a ‘seeing the forest through the trees’ solution in that it is protecting your car for longer periods of time. Washing makes our automobiles sparkle and bring out its luster, and waxing holds the body’s paint and smoothness so that impurities do not accrue on the exterior. The biggest pro of blending a wash and a wax is that the two compliment each other in their benefits. Once the exterior has been cleared of debris, a thorough waxing will dramatically improve the integrity of the paint and make the finish appear as if it is brand new. Utilizing wax also cuts down the likelihood of your car displaying nicks and scratches. It serves as a buffer between the paint and the elements, and also acts like a temporary ‘sunscreen’ for your car’s body. Conclusion A regular car wash serves its purpose, but pumping a few dollars into a machine and having an imperfect cleaning will not last long. Washing and waxing is an artful exercise blending skill and attention to detail to improve the aesthetic of your vehicle. Beyond that however, it serves as a means to make sure the upkeep of your car is in pristine condition, especially when included as a part of a more comprehensive auto detailing regime. When comparing price wise, while waxing and washing is more, its benefits go beyond the cash coming out of your pocket. Each time wax is applied to a clean surface, the life of the paint gains weeks, months, and even years of positive results. Original article taken from The Detailing Syndicate https://detailingsyndicate.com/car-wash-vs-wash-and-wax/ |
AuthorAt The Detailing Syndicate we are about one thing… providing you with the best auto detailing services directly to your location. With lifestyles becoming increasingly hectic, ‘on demand’ services have become a very real necessity for many who simply do not have the time to avail the more traditional services that require long trips, and even longer waits. Being ‘mobile’ we are just a phone call away and we can carry out our top tier detailing work on your vehicle wherever you are! Get More Info:
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May 2018
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