Frequently Asked Questions
Detailing has a large number of terms, expressions, and products that the average customer may not be 100% familiar with. The following FAQ's will hopefully answer any questions you may have thought of while browsing this website, but if not, feel free to contact me to get the answer you were looking for!
What is detailing?
Detailing is the art of transforming a vehicle's appearance through the use of dedicated products and techniques that are designed to repair and protect the physical aspect of said vehicle's appearance. You take your car in to have mechanical issues resolved, why not have the looks to go with?
...But can't I just take it to the local car wash and get it "clean" myself?
Yes you sure can! HOWEVER, most coin and touchless car washes use harsh chemicals and brushes to get your vehicle looking clean again which over time, create a dull looking finish due to the scratches and damage that they create. If you want your vehicle properly cleaned inside and out, bring it to Mirror Image Auto Detailing to get it back in tip-top shape!
What is the "3 bucket method"?
The 3 Bucket Method is literally just that: a method used to clean your vehicle's exterior using 3 separate buckets. Each bucket contains a grit guard that is placed at the bottom which traps the contaminants that have been removed, preventing them from being placed back on the paint during the hand washing process. Two buckets are used for the body; one with a high quality vehicle specific soap and water mixture, and the other containing clean water. By using these buckets, along with a microfiber wash mitt, the chances of creating new scratches on the vehicle's surface have been severely diminished. The third bucket is used specifically for the wheels only. Brake dust is extremely abrasive, and by further preventing contamination of the water that touched your vehicle's paintwork, you also greatly eliminate the chances of creating further swirls and defects even further.
What is a Clay Bar?
A clay bar is once again another item that lives up to it's name. By using a vehicle specific bar of clay, as well as proper lubrication, surface contaminants that make your paint feel rough can be safely removed, leaving behind a smooth finish that is ready for further steps such as polishing and/or waxing and sealing. A clay bar will make your vehicle's paint appear cleaner due to the fact that it has removed contaminants, but it does not remove any swirls or scratches.
What is the difference between wax and sealant?
The answer to this question could be a very lengthy one if I went into great detail, however, I will try to simplify it. Both are products that are applied once all steps on the vehicle's paint have been completed. There are many different types of waxes, ranging from fully natural, to synthetic, as well as being available in paste, cream, and liquid form, but for the most part all do the same thing. Waxes create depth, as well as that "wet" look that is undeniably attractive. The level of protection varies from wax to wax, but for the most part, will not keep your paint protected for extended period of time, which is where sealants come in to play. Sealants are generally composed of synthetic compounds that create a barrier of hardened protection for your vehicle's paint. They offer a level of distinct gloss as well, although not entirely to the level of high quality carnauba waxes. Instead, they have the ability to repel dust, road debris, and other common contaminants for a much longer period of time, as well as having hydrophobic properties that makes water bead up and run off the surface making future washes a breeze while allowing the depth and finish to be "locked in". When both a layer of wax and a layer of sealant have been applied, you will have the glossiest vehicle around!
What does machine polishing do?
Machine polishing is a very detailed process that can completely restore a vehicle's paint by removing surface swirls and scratches caused by incorrect wash techniques along with the removal of oxidation that can form from being exposed to the sun's harmful UV rays. All polishing options that I offer come with a layer of sealant to preserve the new look that your vehicle will have. If you truly want to transform and restore your vehicle's finish, machine polishing is the only way to properly do so. Ranging from gloss enhancing polishing that removes light swirls and scratches, all the way up to multi step processes to fully restore the paintwork, I am confident that I offer a polishing level that will exceed your expectations.
What is a Ceramic Coating?
A ceramic coating is a relatively new product in the detailing world. As described above, there are the commonly known waxes, as well as synthetic sealants, which are both used to add protection and gloss to a vehicle's paintwork. Ceramic coatings take those elements to a whole new level, all while lasting for 1 to 2 years depending on the coating and the conditions it is subjected to. Applied in a liquid state, the coating then undergoes a curing stage where it changes into a solid that can be looked at as a second clear coat which offers unparalleled gloss and depth, all while being hard enough to resist light swirling and scratches that come with day to day use. Along with the aforementioned benefits, ceramic coatings are also extremely hydrophobic, which means that water will bead right off the paint leading to quicker drying times and much smaller chances of water drying and developing hard water spots. With the hydrophobic properties, cleaning the vehicle will be very easy as dirt and road grime will have a hard time sticking to the coating, so they will rinse off with ease. There are a variety of different coatings on the market that all have different levels of protection and durability, so if you are considering getting your vehicle protected. please contact Nick first to discuss options that will best suit your vehicle. Ceramic coatings will ONLY be applied after the vehicle has been polished. It might appear as expensive upfront, but having a ceramic coating installed can be viewed as an investment. Your vehicle is one of the biggest investments you will make in life, so why not have it protected and maintained?
What is a leather coating?
If you own a vehicle with leather seats, having them coated is one of the best things you can do to maintain and provide longevity for them. Leather coatings are a semi-permanent leather coating that will preserve the leather in your vehicle by offering stain and dye transfer resistance, high hydrophobic properties, and extreme UV ray protection to help prevent fading and cracking due to the sun. The coating lasts anywhere from 1 to 2 years depending on usage and conditions, and can be viewed as an investment just like ceramic coatings for your paintwork. If you have recently purchased a vehicle with leather seats, have children in the vehicle, or just want to preserve your vehicle's current seats, get them coated today!
What do I need to do before you arrive?
In most cases, all that needs to be done by you is the removal of all loose articles inside the vehicle. Any items found in center consoles or jnder the seats will be removed by me, but will be safely stored and the replaced in their respective spots prior to me removing them. However, any garbage that is found during the cleaning will be disposed of properly.
How long will the detailing process take?
Prior to the set appointment, we will arrange an arrival time to spend five to ten minutes going over the vehicle to point out any specific spots that need attention. Once you then leave the vehicle with me, the total process can range anywhere from one to 30+ hours, depending on the package selected and the condition of the vehicle. There may be the odd vehicle that takes longer than the suggested time, and if this does happen, I will contact you to give you an estimate for how much longer it will take.
What if I need to cancel my appointment, and does it require a deposit?
If you have already booked an appointment and know in advance that you can no longer make it, please get in contact with me as soon as possible so I can alter my schedule. I do this full time, and if a customer decides to not show up, it is a loss of time and money on my end that could have been prevented. A non-refundable deposit is required for any details that will take longer than one day. Arrangement of the payment and amount required will be discussed prior to the appointment being made.
What level of experience do you have?
I personally have four years of detailing experience under my belt, with past jobs ranging from basic cleaning of everyday cars, all the way to 80+ hour multi step paint restoration projects on private jets. I am confident in my abilities, and that pride shows through on every vehicle that I work on. Since starting Mirror Image Auto Detailing, I have completed roughly 50o individual jobs of varying work, so exoerience is not a worry. You will not be disappointed!