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.

“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”

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.