Although a great car wash can make any vehicle look amazing, not properly drying it afterwards can completely ruin the effect!

The drying stage is an essential element of a successful wash. The drier the car, the less likely it is to experience water spots or streaks. A drying agent is a unique product that makes water evaporate and wick away quickly, providing you with a streak-free car. Today, we'll be discussing what a drying agent is, how they are best used, and how to choose the right one for your car wash.

To start off, What is the Drying Process?

In a car wash, the drying process is crucial in order to prevent spots or streaks on the car. This can be done with a few different methods, but the most effective is to use a drying agent. Choosing the right one and using it properly can be instrumental in leaving your customer's vehicles dry and clean! Most car washes also use high-powered dryers to speed up the evaporation process.

A Wet Surface Can Spell Disaster For Your Wash

After your car wash cleans vehicles, a large amount of water will remain on the surface.

Leaving a car's surface wet is an easy way to ruin your finished product as once the water eventually evaporates, water spots and streaks will remain.

Customers will see this and won't be pleased with their car not looking the way they thought it would. Ensure your wash process includes a drying aid to make sure your vehicles leave as dry as possible.

What is a Car Wash Drying Agent?

A drying agent, also known as a drying compound, is a chemical solution that helps remove water from surfaces. It works by breaking the interfacial tension of water, which allows it to evaporate more quickly.

Water evaporates when it comes into contact with a surface that is hotter than the water itself. In order to speed up the drying process, car washes use high-powered dryers to blow hot air onto the surface of the car. This helps to quickly dry the water sheet and push it off the surface to avoid streaking and spotting.

How Does The Chemistry Work?

When it comes to drying aids, there are a few different types available on the market. Each one has its own unique set of ingredients that help it evaporate water quickly. Some of the most common ingredients in a drying agent include surfactants, solvents, and alcohols. Each of these ingredients helps to break down the water and evaporate it more quickly.

A drying agent usually contains a surfactant, which is a compound that lowers the surface tension of water. This allows it to spread out more easily and evaporate quickly. The surfactant also helps to break up any water droplets that may be clinging to the surface of the car. This prevents them from sitting on the paint or glass and drying slowly.

What are the Different Stages of Car Washing?

1. The first stage of a wash is generally a high power rinse to remove debris or an immediate presoak bath to begin to work on tough dust, dirt and grime.
2. After the rinse, a foam detergent is applied all over the car to break down any remaining dirt or grime.
3. Once the foaming action has had time to work, another high-power rinse is used to remove all the residual detergent from the surface of the car.
4. At this stage a ceramic, wax or sealant coat is applied to the car if requested by the customer for a high gloss shine and improved longevity of the paint. Say hello to scratch free paintwork.
5. Finally, the drying process begins! This is where a drying agent comes in to lower the surface tension of the water on the vehicle.
6. A final rinse with fresh water is applied to remove any drying agent residue and then the car is dried with high-powered dryers.

How to Dry a Vehicle After Washing?

Cars can be dried using multiple different methods. What is the best drying aid? Often these methods are used in combination, in the most effective way, to lower drying time and leave the customer with the most dry car.

Drying Agent

A drying agent is a type of product that helps water to evaporate and wick off quickly. They come in many different forms such as liquids, powders, or a simple spray.

Dryers/Blowers

Dryers are devices that use warm air to evaporate or push water from the surface of a vehicle. The dryers in a car wash are arranged in a way that allows them to quickly and efficiently dry the surface of a car. The dryers are placed in an arc that can blow hot air onto the vehicle from all angles, allowing for the water to be dried quickly. This is the most common and efficient drying technique.

Towels

Towels can be used to physically absorb water from the surface of a car. This method works well but is typically impractical for commercial businesses. Lately, car washes have been offering a station for a customer to collect a premium microfiber towel to dry their car while they vacuum or wash their floor mats (at a tunnel or self serve car wash. This is a great way to add value and increase customer satisfaction.

Air Drying

This is the process of allowing water to naturally evaporate off the surface of a car. This method will not only be lengthy, it will likely leave water spots all over the vehicle. Spots are the result of water evaporating and leaving minerals or other contaminants, that were dissolved in the water, on the surface of a vehicle.

Benefits of Using A Drying Agent, Car Wash Success

Water Wicking

Drying agents help water to evaporate and wick off quickly, which is important for preventing water spots. This is known as giving a vehicle's surface hydrophobic properties.

What does being Hydrophobic mean?

The word hydrophobic literally means "water-fearing." In terms of car care, hydrophobic technology refers to a product or coating that repels water. This means that the water will bead up and run off the surface instead of sitting on top and creating water spots. Many drying aids produce a hydrophobic surface, which helps to wick as much water off the vehicle as possible, helping them become drier.

Streak-Free Finish

When used correctly in combination with fresh water or clean water, drying aids can leave your car with a streak and spot free finish.

Preventing Rust

By removing all the residual water from your car's surface, you can help prevent rust and corrosion. Even a small amount of water can cause these problems over time, so it's important to make sure your vehicle is totally dry.

Paint Protection

Some drying aids can offer adding extra protection to vehicles as well. It won't be as strong as a synthetic sealant or ceramic coating but it can still be extra protection for paint from light scuffs and marks.

Shine

Some drying aids may even help with giving vehicles a little brilliant shine. This is an advantage that many customers love as everyone likes their car with a high gloss finish.

Why are drying agents used?

Many people believe that a dryer or cloth is all they need to get the water off their car, but that's not always the case. Because they are not reusable between cars and require additional time, a large drying cloth is impractical in most cases (other than the home washer). A dryer, without additional help, can only remove so much water in the few seconds they will have before that car must exit.

A drying agent will give that additional help to ensure a completely dry car, instead of one with remaining water droplets, which will put a damper on your entire wash!

Can I just dry my car with a microfiber drying towel?

The home car washer may want to keep things simple and dry their car by wiping it with a clean microfiber towel. It is a good method for single cars as it is cost-effective and simple. But you still won't receive the numerous other benefits of drying aids. On a large scale, however, using a microfiber towel to dry cars becomes impossible.

Sidebar: What is a microfiber drying towel?

A premium microfiber towel is a cloth made out of a material that will be gentle on a vehicle's surface. They are also made to be heavily absorbent, picking up more water with ease.

Can I just let my cars air dry?

This is not an effective way to dry your car. The sun may evaporate the water on the surface, but it will leave streaks and spots, ruining the entire wash! It's always best practice to use a drying agent in conjunction with a high-powered dryer.

How to choose a drying agent? Choosing a high-quality option like Turtle Wax Pro

Not all drying agents are created equal and there are a few things you'll want to consider before making your purchase.

Product Quality

You'll want to make sure you're using a high-quality drying agent on your customer's vehicles to ensure it is doing a great job. Cheap and ineffective products will only leave a poor wash after the final rinse.

Some may think the higher quality has to mean expensive, but that is not always the case. We at Turtle Wax Pro believe you can find great quality, for also a great price. We strive to help all of our customers and partners with this.

Compatibility

Your car wash chemistry is made up of different products: presoaks, shampoos, detergents, protectants, tire cleaners, etc. A big factor in achieving the perfect wash is having those products not only work together well but actually help each other work better! Turtle Wax Pro chemistry is expertly designed to work together, ensuring every process works to its highest ability.

The Supplier

You'll want to find a reliable supplier who can provide you with consistent quality and service. Look for someone who will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have as well as offer helpful tips along the way.

The supplier you get your chemistry from is an aspect that cannot be understated. A good supplier will not only carry top-tier products but they will offer advice and experience in using and positioning those products. Whether that be in extensive product training or marketing support.

If you believe Turtle Wax Pro could be a good fit for your car wash and its needs, feel free to reach out anytime! We truly believe our chemistry is the best on the market. Turtle Wax Pro has everything you need to get started and we're always here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help your business grow!

One of the core values of Turtle Wax Pro is environmental protection. We not only develop products that clean, protect and beautify your cars, but we also work to find ways to reduce our environmental impact.

Our eco friendly car wash chemicals are just one example. Our products are just as effective as products containing hydrofluoric acid, phosphates and other harsh chemicals, but without the environmental damage.

We are also constantly working on ways to reduce our water usage. We do this by using hyper concentrated chemistry, which allows us to do more with less. This means that we ship less water and reduce our plastic packaging waste.

We believe that it is our responsibility to protect the environment, and we are always looking for ways to reduce our impact. We hope that you'll join us in this effort!

In this article, we will share some tips on how you can make your car wash more eco friendly.

What Does Being Eco-Friendly Mean?

When we talk about being eco-friendly or sustainable, we mean reducing our impact on the planet. This can be done in a number of ways, but one way is to use products that are less harmful to the environment.

Environmentally friendly car wash soap is made from sustainable materials and are often biodegradable. This means that they won’t pollute surrounding ecosystems or harm wildlife.

Using a sustainable detergent is a great way to become more green while still keeping a vehicle clean of dirt and grime.

The Benefits of Using an Eco-Friendly Car Wash Soap

There are many benefits to using biodegradable cleaning products.

It’s better for the planet

As we mentioned before, sustainable products are made from sustainable materials (ex: phosphate free) and are often biodegradable. This means that they won’t pollute the environment or harm wildlife over the long term.

It’s gentle on vehicles

'Green' detergents are gentle on paint, won’t strip away wax or polish and will still clean cars. This is important because a good paint job is key to making a car look its best.

It’s affordable

Biodegradable detergents are just as affordable as regular detergents. This is because they are often made from sustainable materials that can be less expensive to produce.

Turtle Wax Pro works extremely hard to produce chemistry that performs competitively when using a cost-per-car analysis.

It protects your equipment

Many chemical companies produce cleaning products containing hydrofluoric acid. This is a corrosive chemical that can damage your equipment and cost over $100,000 through early replacement.

Turtle Wax Pro products don’t contain any hydrofluoric acid or other harmful chemicals, so they won’t damage your equipment or lower its life span. HF is also just one of many dangerous chemicals that can lead to long term severe health problems for you or your employees. It can also cause acute issues including skin burns, eye irritation and inhalation of toxic fumes.

The Importance of Being Eco Conscious As a Commercial Car Wash Owner

As a business, it’s important to be eco-conscious for many reasons.

• Not only is it the right thing to do for your local ecosystem, but it can also save you money in the long run. You can go beyond biodegradable products by using water reclaim systems or hyper concentrated chemistry to save on water costs.
• Additionally, being eco-conscious can be used as a great marketing tool for commercial car washes. Customers are becoming more environmentally conscious and are more likely to do business with a company that shares their values.

Choosing an Environmentally Conscious Brand like Turtle Wax Pro

Making a choice on car wash chemistry is the most important decision in producing clean cars.

The things to consider are quality of products, quality of service, and working with a company that fits your needs.

Turtle Wax Pro is a leader in the development of environmentally friendly car wash products. Leadership in environmental conservation and stewardship is fundamental to our ongoing success. We endeavour to innovate products that respect our physical environment and adhere to the highest standards in our industry.

We work with many companies who have an environmental focus and help them establish a much stronger eco presence.

If your business has any concerns about their considerable environmental impact, we would be happy to discuss aspects on how you can improve your strategy.

How to Make your Car Wash Eco Friendly?

There are many easy ways to make your commercial car wash more eco-friendly.

Using eco-friendly products

As we’ve already discussed, using eco-friendly car wash chemicals is a great way to be more eco-conscious. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also just as effective as regular car wash soap.

Installing energy-efficient equipment

Another great way to be more eco-conscious is to install energy-efficient equipment in your car wash. This can include things like LED lighting, high-efficiency pumps and solar panels.

Recycle materials

Using recycled materials is a great way to reduce waste and cut costs. Some examples of recycled materials that can be used in a car wash are recycled soap dispensers, signage and hoses.

Recycling water is a great idea for your business to reuse its biggest resource, cut costs, and perhaps even save the local sewer systems. Water reclaim systems recycle the water used in the car wash by filtering out dirt, grime and chemicals so it can be reused again.

Be careful when selecting a system as some types can lead to a not-so-great smell when water is reused.

Save water from running off into storm drains

Water is one of the most important aspects within a car wash. Many car washes waste a large amount of water each day.

It is very important for a car wash to have a system in place to not violate various storm sewer laws and contribute to water wastage. Contaminating storm drains with soapy water is a big problem as it can find its way to local waterways and harm wildlife or aquatic life.

The best way to accomplish this is to have a water reclaim system that collects the water run-off and recycles it back into the car wash. This will save a large amount of water and money over time. This is true for all car wash types, from self serve to tunnel washes.

Washing Wisely for the Home Car Washer

There are many ways the home car washer can practice sustainable behaviour as well. By following a few tips, you can minimize your environmental impact and save money at the same time.

Limit your water usage

One of the easiest ways to be more environmentally conscious when washing your car is to use less water.

You can do this by using a bucket instead of a hose or by using a waterless car wash product.

Waterless car wash products are good for small jobs and a great way to conserve water when washing your car. They work by using a special cleaning solution that is sprayed onto the car surfaces and then wiped off with a cloth. This solution is designed to remove dirt, grime, road film, brake dust and other debris from the surface of the entire car.

While not truly a 'waterless wash' these products will use less water than a traditional soap or detergent and still make the car clean.

Use biodegradable products, avoid dish soap and other household cleaners

Using biodegradable soap is a great way to be more sustainable when washing your car in the driveway.

As a helpful additional tip, do not use liquid dishwashing detergent to wash your entire car.

The temptation for many to fill a bucket with water and add a squirt of dishwashing liquid to create lots of suds is strong, but dish washing liquid is too strong and formulated for an entirely different purpose. It is not the right choice to wash your vehicle.

Other products like a spray bottle of Simple Green or other all-purpose cleaners are also not a great choice as they aren't formulated to cut through road film, large dirt or other tough stains. Simple Green does make a car wash specific product, always look for a product that is made specifically for cars.

Try to control where dirty water flows

After washing your vehicle. Do your best to contain the water to your own driveway or lawn and allow it to seep into the ground, rather than flowing straight towards the storm drain.

Toxic wastewater can enter the water system and cause problems, both legal and environmental.

Lastly, visit a commercial car wash

If you are looking for the most sustainable way to wash your car, visit a commercial car wash. At a professional facility, water is filtered and reused multiple times before being released into the sewer system.

While there are many sustainable car wash practices, these are just a few tips to get you started. By making even a small change, you can have a big impact on the environment. So when it comes to choosing your car wash chemistry and equipment, it's time to make the greenest choice. It’s good for business and good for the planet.

If you're running a car wash business, it's important to be aware of the effects hard water can have on your equipment and customers.

Hard water contains high levels of minerals, which can cause problems when when combined with presoaks and detergents. Today, we'll discuss the effects hard water can have on your car wash business and offer some tips for dealing with it.

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of calcium and magnesium. These minerals can cause problems when used with detergents, as they can bind to the detergent molecules and prevent them from being fully dissolved.

Water hardness varies depending on the geographical location. In general, hard water is more common in areas with high mineral content in the soil, such as the Southwestern United States.

What Causes Hard Water?

Water Hardness is caused by a high concentration of minerals or salt in the water supply. These deposits can come from a variety of sources, including:

• Dissolved limestone
• Magnesium sulfate
• Calcium carbonate
• Other minerals in smaller amounts

These minerals cause hard water and when they bind to detergent molecules, they prevent the detergent from being fully dissolved.

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Why is Hard Water a Problem?

Hard water is a problem because it leaves behind deposits on surfaces that it comes into contact with. These minerals can have multiple ill effects when it comes to washing cars.

For example, hard water can:

• Dull paint
• Etch glass
• Corrode metal
• Leave spots or streaks 
• Lower foaming capabilities
• Create soap scum
• Eventually clog pipes
• Affect self-serve equipment

This is why it's important to be aware of the hard water levels in your area and take steps to protect your car wash business from hard water problems.

Where is Water Hardness Common?

As we mentioned before, water hardness is more common in areas with high mineral contents in the soil. In the United States, this includes the Southwestern states as well as parts of the Midwest.

Some of the hardest water can be found in:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Idaho
• Kansas
• Montana

What is TDS or Total Dissolved Solids?

TDS is a measure of the total amount of dissolved minerals in water. The higher the TDS level, generally, the harder the water.

You can test the water hardness levels in your area with a TDS meter, which you can purchase online or at a hardware store. To get an accurate reading it's best to test the water at your car wash business, as water hardness levels can vary depending on the location.

What is The Difference Between Hard Water, Soft Water and High TDS Water?

The terms hard water, soft water and high TDS water are often used together, but there is a difference between the three.

• Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of calcium and magnesium.
• Soft water is water that has been treated to remove calcium and magnesium by replacing them with sodium.
• High TDS water is water that contains a high concentration of dissolved solids, but not necessarily calcium and magnesium. This means that soft water can still have a high TDS level if it contains other dissolved solids, such as sodium.

Does Hard Water Have Any Advantages?

In a car wash setting, hard water has no advantages. In fact, it can cause all sorts of problems for your business, from damaging equipment to leaving customers with subpar results.

If you have hard water, the best thing you can do is take steps to mitigate the effects.

How Do You Know if You Have Hard Water?

Water Hardness Test Kit

The best way to know if you have hard water would be to test the water with a hard water testing kit that can be found online, at your local hardware store, or your friendly car wash supplier.

To use a water hardness test kit, simply follow the instructions that come with the kit. In general, you'll add a sample of water to the test kit and then compare the results to a chart that comes with the kit.

Digital Hard Water Tester

Another way to test for hard water is to use a digital hard water tester. These testers are placed in the water and then give a reading of the hardness level.

By Eye

If you suspect you may have hard water and want a quick way to know before testing, look at your taps, shower heads or equipment.  If there is a white film or spots present then you likely have hard water. It is important to note that the varying degrees in hardness level may impact how visible it is on your taps.

Measures of Water Hardness

The standard guidelines in water classification include 0 to 60 mg/L of calcium carbonate as being soft. Water systems involving groundwater or well water often exceed 60 mg/L. This is because water travels through calcium carbonate deposits in rock or soil and becomes hard.

Hard water can range from being slightly hard to very hard, the degree of hardness is classified into different categories:

• Soft water contains up to 60 mg/L of calcium carbonate.
• Moderately hard water contains 61 to 120 mg/L of calcium carbonate.
• Hard water contains 121 to 180 mg/L of calcium carbonate.
• Very hard water contains more than 180 mg/L of calcium carbonate.

How Does Hard Water Affect Your Car Wash Business?

Hard water can affect your car wash greatly by impacting the quality of your wash and its ability to function.

The high calcium and magnesium concentrations in hard water can cause soap scum to build up on surfaces which can lead to equipment not functioning well. This leads to continuous (and more frequent) servicing.

Also, it can damage equipment by corroding metal or affecting the seals. This may cause a lower lifespan of your car wash's equipment. The American Water Works Association estimates it could affect the lifespan of equipment by as much as 30% in some cases.

Having problems with your equipment will increase downtime, cost money for repairs/replacements and leave cars improperly washed.

In addition to affecting your equipment, hard water prevents you from getting a great clean on vehicles. It leaves mineral deposits, spots and streaks on glass and paint, which will lead to unhappy customers.

Your car wash chemistry is also greatly affected by hard water. The hard water can bind with the detergent, making it less effective. This means you'll have to use more detergent or presoak to achieve the same level of clean. Costing you more money.

In addition it will also create a milky foam instead of rich suds, which does not clean as well.

All of these things can lead to a decrease in business and revenue. That's why it's important to take steps to protect your car wash from hard water.

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The Importance of Water to a Car Wash

Water is the most important part of any car wash business. It's what you use to clean the cars and it's also a big part of your operating costs. So, it's important to make sure that the water you're using is high quality.

We've discussed the importance of having soft water or low TDS water but that is not the only aspect of water that is vital for your wash.

Water temperature, pressure, volume and more all play a role in the quality of your wash.

An Aside On Water Heaters

Water heaters can be critical to a car wash in colder climates. Not only do they help to maintain water temperature but they can also provide extra pressure.

Hot water is important in a car wash because it helps to clean the cars better. The higher temperature helps to break down the dirt and grease on the car, making it easier to remove. It also helps to reduce the amount of time it takes to wash a car, which can be important for a business.

While most car washes use cold water, some businesses do offer hot water washes for an extra fee. If you operate in a climate where it gets cold, you may also want to consider using a water heater to maintain the water temperature from your water supply.

Water's importance cannot be understated, it is vital that you have a strong grasp over the water you use for your business.

How to Deal With Hard Water at Your Car Wash Business?

If your business only has access to hard water, there are a few things you can do to ensure your water is clean and primed for car wash success.

Use a Water Softener:

A water softener is a device that removes calcium and magnesium from water, making it softer.

Water softeners work by exchanging the hard minerals for sodium. This is done by passing hard water through a tank filled with resin beads. As the hard water passes through, the resin beads create an ion exchange between calcium/magnesium and sodium. The softened water then exits the tank and is ready to use.

While a water softener is great at removing minerals from hard water, they do have some minor disadvantages.

Aside from the initial cost of purchasing and installing the water softener. Some regular maintenance will be needed, most notably in regards to salt. Water softeners must be regularly filled with salt, or they will not be able to function properly to create soft water.

Use a Reverse Osmosis System:

An RO system filters hard water and removes minerals, leaving you with clean, low TDS water. This is the best option for your car wash business. Reverse osmosis systems can remove up to 99% of dissolved solids.

Reverse osmosis works by using a high pressure pump to increase the pressure on the hard water side of the machine. This forces each water molecule across a semi-permeable membrane, leaving almost all of dissolved solids behind.

The biggest disadvantage is the cost. Reverse osmosis systems can be quite expensive, both to purchase and maintain. They also require a fair amount of space, so if your car wash is limited on space, this may not be the best solution for you.

Are There Any Alternatives to a Water Softener?

Hard Water Detergents

If a water softener is not an option you can use detergents that are designed for use with hard water.

They contain solutions that help prevent the calcium and magnesium ions from binding to the detergent molecules. This results in less scum and fewer spots on dried vehicles.

While not a perfect solution, hard water detergents can be a good way to deal with hard water if soft water isn't an option.

Water Conditioners 

Water conditioners work by changing the structure of the water molecules. It does this by passing the water over a specialized material known as template-assisted crystallization (TAC) media. This causes the hard water minerals to form "seed crystals".

This helps to minimize spots and scaling but does not remove the high concentrations of minerals.

The main disadvantage of using a water conditioner is that it does not remove the minerals from the water. You will still have hard water, and some of the problems that come with it.

While water conditioners are a good temporary solution, they are not a long-term fix for water softening.

Does Water Pressure Matter at a Car Wash?

Yes, water pressure is important for several reasons.

First, high pressure helps remove dirt and grime more effectively. It does this by breaking up the particles so they can be rinsed away more easily.

Secondly, less water pressure can lead to hard water spots. This is because the water is more likely to cling to the surface of the vehicle and dry, leaving behind magnesium or calcium deposits.

If you are having trouble getting enough pressure at your car wash or start to notice problems, there are a few things you can try.

1. Check for leaks in your system. A small leak can reduce water pressure significantly.
2. Make sure all of your hose connections are secure. Loose hose connections can also cause a drop in pressure.
3. If you have an older car wash, the pipes may be too small. This can be remedied by upgrading to larger pipes.

Choosing the Right Car Wash Supplier

If you suspect you have hard water the first step is to seek guidance to ensure your business starts on the right foot. We suggest getting in contact with a reputable partner like Turtle Wax Pro or Transchem.

Working with a company like us at Transchem gives you access to a team of experts that can offer guidance and support on choosing the best solution for your business.

We have been working with car washes for decades and take pride in helping washes succeed in any way we can!

This means choosing not only the right system to tackle your hard water, but choosing the right chemistry to match.

Hard water is a very common problem and as a result, we have the experience and expertise treating hard water to help you choose the best system for your business.

By taking these steps, you can protect your car wash from the damaging effects of hard water. Starting with the right water is the foundation to achieving the cleanest, direst and shiniest cars.

As always, if you have any questions regarding your water quality, do not hesitate to contact us!

When it comes to car care, there are a lot of different opinions out there on what’s the best way to protect your vehicle. One option that’s becoming increasingly popular is ceramic coating.

But is it worth the cost? Let’s take a look at how it works, why you should get one and what to avoid!

Ceramic coating is a process where a liquid polymer, typically composed of a silicon dioxide, is applied to the surface of a car. Then in some cases cured with heat. Occasionally titanium dioxide will also be included as a hardening agent.

This creates a hard, glossy finish that can protect the paint and clear coat from the outside world. There are many benefits of ceramic coatings, including protection against the elements, protection from harmful UV rays, hydrophobic properties, an enhanced gloss and resistance to small scratches.

The process of ceramic coating a car is not difficult, but it is important to choose a reputable source to get your ceramic coatings from, the wrong product or application can lead to problems down the road.

When done correctly, a ceramic coating protects and can add value to any car.

What Are Ceramic Coatings and Their Benefits?

A ceramic coating is a very thin layer of liquid polymer that is applied to a car's surface to create a protective layer between on the vehicle's paint and the outside world.

A good ceramic coating also helps to keep the car looking new for much longer, ensuring car owners feel good great after every wash.

Not only does it protect the paint and clear coat, but it also helps to keep the car clean. The coating acts as a barrier against dirt, dust, road film, water stains, bird droppings, tree sap, oil and grease across the entire car.

It also creates a hydrophobic surface that repels water, which makes it much easier to clean the car and helps to wick away water droplets in the rain for increased visibility while driving.

When incorporated onto the vehicle's surface, a true ceramic coating creates a hard, protective shell due to its crystalline structure leading to the ultimate surface protection.

The best part is that a high quality ceramic coat is very affordable. So, if you are looking for a way to add protective qualities to your car's paint job, ceramic coating is definitely the way to go.

The Benefits of a Ceramic Coated Car:

• Provides paint protection against the elements
• Creates a hydrophobic surface
• Helps improve the glossy look of a vehicle's paint
• Makes car owners feel amazing
• Protection from UV damage, oxidization and faded paint
• Slight protection from chemical staining

What Ceramic Coatings Won't Provide Protection From:

• Large scratches
• Swirl marks
• Rock chips

How Does a Ceramic Coating Work?

Ceramic coating is a process that is used to protect a car from the elements. Ceramic coating creates a barrier between the paint and the environment.

DIY Coating

In a DIY ceramic coating, the coating are applied in a process that is very similar to painting after some surface prep. The car is first cleaned and dried, and then the ceramic coating is applied. It is important to make sure that the car is completely dry before applying the coating, as any moisture will affect the adhesion of the coating and induce water spotting.

The coating is then cured, typically using a heat gun or infrared lamp. Once the ceramic coating cures, the car is ready to be driven.

Professional Coating

In a ceramic coating applied during a professional car wash, like a tunnel or in bay automatic, the ceramic coating is applied near the end of the car wash process after the car has been completely cleaned of debris and road grime.

The ceramic coating has now been applied to the vehicle's surface in liquid form using specially formulated chemistry to allow for quick adhesion and a semi permanent bond of the liquid polymer to the painted surface.

When used together with other car care finishing products like a car wax and drying agent you're sure to see car's paint take on a near reflective properties!

Choosing a Reputable Company like Turtle Wax Pro

When it comes time to choose a company to apply ceramic coating to your cars, it's important to do your research.

A reputable company like Turtle Wax Pro will has a team of experienced professionals who know how to apply the coating properly, when and where to apply the protective coating and how to achieve the best results.

We'll also be able to answer any questions you have about the process and the benefits of ceramic coating.

As a pioneer of ceramic technology, Turtle Wax Pro has implemented over 20 years of innovation into its industry leading, premium ceramic technology.

We have multiple high end ceramic coating products including Super Hard Shell Finish, Ice Instant Shine and our brand new Titanium TX4 product line.

So, if you're looking for a way to protect your car paint, ceramic coating is definitely the way to go. Turtle Wax Pro can help you get the best results and ensure that your cars look their best for years to come.

The Process of Ceramic Coating on Cars

Ceramic coatings can be done with a DIY ceramic coating kit, by a professional car detailing shop or much more easily through a professional car wash equipped with ceramic coating technology.

DIY Ceramic Coating Kit

A DIY kit is a great way to protect your car's paint job. It involves applying a liquid to your car, and then curing it with heat.

When using a DIY ceramic, it is important to follow the instructions closely.

1. Make sure that your car is clean and free of any dirt or debris.
2. Apply the liquid coating to the surface of the car. Be sure to coat the entire car evenly.
3. Allow enough time for the coating to dry completely.
4. Cure it with heat.

What to Avoid

1. Do not apply the coating in direct sunlight. This can cause the coating to dry too quickly and unevenly.
2. Do not over-cure the coating. This can cause it to become brittle and crack.
3. Do not apply the coating to a dirty or dusty surface. This can cause the coating to adhere poorly and come off easily.

If you follow these simple tips, you will be on your way to having a great looking car with a durable, protective finish.

Professional Ceramic Coatings from a Car Detailer

The process of applying a ceramic coating typically starts with a thorough cleaning of the surface of the car. If the surface is damaged in any way, it will need to be repaired before a ceramic coating can be applied. This ensures that it will have a smooth, consistent finish.

After the car is clean, the ceramic coating is applied with a brush or sprayer. After application, it needs to be cured with heat. This can be done with a special curing lamp or other heat source.

Once the ceramic coating is cured, it will create a hard, glossy finish that can protect your car's paint from road grime and weather. It is important to note that a ceramic coat is not a replacement for regular waxing and polishing. You will still need to care for your car's paint regularly to maintain its shine and protection.

Depending on the type of ceramic coating used by the auto detailer and the number of layers applied, the hard surface can last for several years before it needs to be reapplied.

Ceramic Coating in a Professional Car Wash

Ceramic coatings are most often applied in a professional car wash using a tunnel system.

In this type of system, the car is brought through a series of automated washing arches or sprayers, where it is first washed with a high powered detergent to remove any debris and then rinsed. Depending on the length of tunnel a regular car wax or carnauba wax will be applied next alongside a tire dressing.

The ceramic coating is applied near the end of the tunnel, and then the car is dried with high-powered fans.

This type of system can be very effective at applying a consistent coat of ceramic to the entire surface of a car. However, it is important to note that not all tunnel car washes are created equal. Some car washes may use lower quality ceramic coatings, or they may not apply the coating evenly which could lead to water spotting.

It is important to do your research and choose a car wash that has a good reputation for applying ceramic coatings correctly.

What to Expect After a Ceramic Coating is Applied

After the ceramic coating is applied to a car, it will be water repellant and be able to lightly repel dirt, dust, and other contaminants.

The coating will also help to protect the paint from fading thanks to UV rays and other forms of wear and tear.

The hard layer of coating can last a long time if properly maintained. It is important to keep the car clean and free of dirt and dust so that the coating will last longer. If the car is not kept clean, the coating may start to wear off over time.

How to Care for a Car That Has Been Coated With Ceramic

When you get your car ceramic coated, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to maintain the finish.

1. Avoid parking under trees or other items that could drop sap, leaves or other natural materials on the car.
2. You should either hand wash the car or take it to a professional car wash.
3. Try to keep your car garaged or covered when you're not using it, as this will help protect the finish from the elements.
4. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the coating.

What is the Average Cost to Ceramic Coat a Car?

DIY Ceramic Coating

The cost of a DIY ceramic coating kit can vary depending on the size of the kit. Generally, they range from around $25 to $200. Make sure to choose a kit with high-quality products that will provide the best results.

Turtle Wax's Hybrid Solutions lineup is an amazing cost effective way to apply a ceramic coating at home.

Car Detailer Ceramic Coating

The average cost to apply a ceramic coating to a car is around $500 at a professional auto detailer. This price can vary depending on the size of the car and the type of ceramic coating that is used.

If maintained properly a ceramic coating from a car detailer can last multiple years, longer than a DIY or car wash coating, hence the high costs.

Car Wash Ceramic Coating

The average cost to get a ceramic car wash package is around $25. This price can vary depending on the size of the package, what's included and the location where it is purchased.

Some washes offer unlimited monthly memberships that include a high quality ceramic coating for cars for as low as $40 per month.

Why Should a Car Wash Owner Provide A Ceramic Wash Package?

There are a number of reasons why a car wash owner should offer ceramic wash package to their customers.

One of the main reasons is that ceramic coatings can help to protect cars from dirt, grime, fading, and other types of damage.

This can be beneficial for both the car wash owner and the customer. The wash owner will benefit because they can charge a higher price for the service, and the customer will benefit because their car will be better protected.

It can also help to build customer loyalty. Customers who are happy with the results of the wash are more likely to return for additional washes or other services, and they may also tell their friends about the amazing car wash they received.

Offering a ceramic package is also a great way to differentiate your wash from other businesses that do not offer this service, attract new customers and grow your business.

As ceramic technology continues to become a mainstay in car wash lineups, don't miss out on the opportunity to provide the best wash in town.

How to Start Offering Ceramic Wash Packages at Your Car Wash

There are a few things that you need to do in order to start offering ceramic coating packages at your car wash.

Choose a Product

The first thing you need to do is purchase a quality ceramic product. As previously mentioned Turtle Wax Pro offers some amazing ceramic products including Super Hard Shell Finish, Ice Instant Shine and our brand new Titanium TX4 product line.

Market the New Wash Package

Once you have a quality product, the next thing you need to do is market the service. You can do this by creating signage for your car wash that advertises the ceramic packages. Turtle Wax Pro has marketing programs in place to help with this exact process!

Take Before & After Pictures of the Car's Paint

You can also include information about the packages on your website and social media. Don't forget to take before and after photos of cars that have received the coating so potential customers can see the results for themselves!

Train Your Staff

Finally, make sure that your employees are trained on the benefits of ceramic technology to be able to upsell your customers effectively. This will ensure that every customer is happy with the results of their wash.

By following these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to offering one of the hottest services in the car wash industry.

How To Upsell A Ceramic Wash Package

When it comes to selling a ceramic wash package, it's important to remember that not everyone is familiar with the technology.

This means that you'll need to take some time to explain the benefits of the coating and how it can help with paint protection. Make sure to emphasize that a ceramic will last much longer and provide better paint protection than a traditional car wash.

You should also point out that a ceramic can help to keep a car's paint looking shiny and new. Many customers are interested in this type of service because it can help their car maintain its value.

After you've explained all of this to the customer, it's time to close the sale. Be sure to stress that a ceramic coating is a great investment and that it will save them money in the long run.

You can successfully upsell your customers on a ceramic coating wash package if you follow these easy instructions.

Finishing Up...

Ceramic coatings are one of the newest and most popular services in the car wash industry. They offer a variety of benefits, including protection from scratches, dirt, grime, and fading.

If you're looking to differentiate your wash and attract new customers, consider offering a ceramic package. Be sure to purchase a quality product, market the service, take before and after pictures, and train your staff on how to upsell the packages.

As a car wash owner, it's important to understand the basics of what a ceramic coating protects so that you can effectively market this service to your customers.

With a little bit of knowledge and the right product, you can start offering this service at your car wash and watch your business grow!

By following the tips in this article, you'll be well on your way to offering a top-notch service that will keep your customers coming back for more.