Topic: Detailing place in Markham?

[mmret]

I figure I should probably get the Z4 and the Merc properly waxed. Or paint sealed. Never done that before.

Anyone have any recommended stores in Richmond Hill/Markham? Or just general guidance on what kind of service I should look for? Whats the typical cost for a wash + wax?
I have heard of this place called "Fine Details", which appears to be a franchise, but the whole wash+wax package is only $110 which sounds kind of low to me.

[CanuckG35]

I'm not sure what the market is in Ontario, but regardless if you are looking to get your vehicles paint protected this fall DO NOT simply wax it.  A wax will last you no more than 6 weeks tops.  Rather than paying someone else to do it, your best bet is to buy a polymer sealant and do it yourself.  Sealants are very easy to use and will you give you durability for up to 6 months (depending on which on you go with).  Durability wise, Menzerna's Synthetic Polymer Sealant and Zaino's Z2 or Z5 are amongst the best. 

[rrocket]

You really can do this yourself.  With a DA polisher, it's hard to screw it up.  Check out the vids at AutoGeek and buy some gear.  It will pay for itself after a few uses.

[CanuckG35]

But he's only looking for paint protection, not paint correction.  He will not need any DA polisher for his needs/wants.  mmret, IMHO instead of getting someone else to do it, buy a product like the one below and it will last you for a few years.

http://www.eshine.ca/menzerna_power_lock_polymer_paint_sealant_16oz-1516.php?cat=71


Any other questions just let me know.

[mmret]

Thanks guys. I shall look into it.

How long does it usually take to apply a paint sealer like the one CanuckG35 linked over a car?

Time is really the consideration. Full time, relatively demanding job + part time masters program = uuurgh.

EDIT: Also, do I have to be careful to tape up the headlights and grille area before applying this stuff? Can I apply it to the bumpers?

[CanuckG35]

Thanks guys. I shall look into it.

How long does it usually take to apply a paint sealer like the one CanuckG35 linked over a car?

Time is really the consideration. Full time, relatively demanding job + part time masters program = uuurgh.

EDIT: Also, do I have to be careful to tape up the headlights and grille area before applying this stuff? Can I apply it to the bumpers?

Applying a sealant doesn't take long at all.  Applying it to your TSX will probably take approximately 20-25 minutes (less if you are doing your Z4).  The time to haze will depend on temperature, humidity, etc, however an hour at the extreme most.  Mostly likely will be a lot less than that.  Removing is extremely easy and takes less time than applying so I would say about 15 minutes or so at the most.  Don't forget to use the straight line method when applying and not in a circular motion. 

[TopGun]

You are a wealth of info Canuck dude!  Thank-you.

Does this go over a clean car, or does the finish need to prepared in any way?

Do you wax it after this or just use a quick detailed after you've done this?

[CanuckG35]

You are a wealth of info Canuck dude!  Thank-you.

Does this go over a clean car, or does the finish need to prepared in any way?

Do you wax it after this or just use a quick detailed after you've done this?

Hey, no worries at all.  Always glad to help. 

Yes, when applying any LSP (last stage protection) such as waxes or sealants they are always applied on clean paint surfaces.  Depending on the condition of your paint, you might need to have it claybarred to remove the bonded contaminants from your paint that a regular wash doesn't remove. 

You can absolutely apply a wax after a sealant.  The typical reason for applying a wax after a sealant is to give your paint some added depth and gloss that most sealants can't provide.  Keep in mind though that it's always recommended to let your sealant cure for 24 hours before applying the wax over top of it.  Also, never apply a wax before the sealant as a sealant will not bond to the wax. 

And lastly, quick detailers are always recommended at the end as they will extend the life of whatever LSP you are using. 

[No H2O]

Whats the typical cost for a wash + wax?

Too much considering the very little time they spend on your vehicle.

Why not do it yourself and chalk it up as bonding time.

I bought my Flex DA polisher, Lake Country pads and accessories (clay bar, polishes, etc) from Auto Geek.
http://www.autogeek.net/

[Julie]

I have Zaino and that stuff makes the car look great, and is quick to apply and remove as Canuck mentioned.  That's the biggest reason I bought it actually, to save time over traditional waxing.

Canuck, what's the straight line method?

[CanuckG35]

I have Zaino and that stuff makes the car look great, and is quick to apply and remove as Canuck mentioned.  That's the biggest reason I bought it actually, to save time over traditional waxing.

Canuck, what's the straight line method?

Zaino makes some great stuff.  Their Z2/Z5 sealants are among the most durable on the market.  Regarding the straight line method, I post this in my detailing thread a little while ago.  Basically, when you apply your Zaino do it in straight line as opposed to a circular pattern. 

Just wanted pass along a tip that I don't remember passing along here in the past.  When applying your wax or polymer sealant of choice, ALWAYS use the straight line method and NOT the circular method.  If there are any abrasive particles that come in contact with your paint during the application, circular paint imperfections are FAR more noticeable.  Circular scratches, or spider webbing, can be seen at various heights, various angles, and in most lighting.  With straight light scratches however, you typically need to be at the right height, the right angle, and usually the right light to see them.  Anyways, just a little tip that I learned from my mentor a number of years ago.  Smiley

[Julie]

Thanks Canuck! Will check out your detailing thread for more tips.

[CanuckG35]

Thanks Canuck! Will check out your detailing thread for more tips.

Your welcome, any questions just let me know. 

[hamza7]

Hello my name is Hamza and I own and operate Elevated Car Care (www (dot) getdetailed (dot) ca).

Please contact me if you are having any trouble looking for a Permanent Paint Solution

I have experience with paint correction up to 99% and all major paint protection systems including.

Wolf's Body Wrap, OPT Opti-Guard, CQuartz and AQuartz coating and Permanon (G-Technique).

Spring is coming soon, by the looks of it I say it's been here for a while. Book right now for all your detailing needs.

Servicing York Region and the GTA.