PROPER WASH METHODS AND MAINTENANCE

Your new coating adds a great deal of protection to your vehicle. Also, washing is a much easier task now. One of the best things you can do is keep your vehicle clean. Though your coating is designed to repel contaminants, build up and water spots can still occur over time. The best way to ensure your coating stays at peak performance is to wash it often. we recommend every 2-3 weeks on a daily driver. 

Using the 2 or 3 bucket method will help prevent creating micro swirls and scratches when washing. Never use the same water to wash your paint after washing wheels. Always utilize grit guards in the bottom of your buckets. These Will allow the dirt and contaminates to settle at the bottom of the bucket creating a barrier between the contaminates and your wash mitt.

Wheel Bucket- This bucket will be used for wheels only. Wheels will be the dirtiest part of your vehicle with the most potential for scratching your paint while washing. We recommend never using the same water to wash your vehicle after washing the wheels.

Soap Bucket - This bucket will have a grit guard and soapy water in it. You Will dip your clean wash mitt in this bucket to wash.

Rinse bucket - This bucket will have clean water in it with a grit guard. Your wash mitt should go in this bucket and get rinsed off before it goes into your wash bucket. We recommend rinsing off your wash mitt after every panel.

Start your wash at the top of the car and work your way down rinsing your wash mitt often. If you ever drop your mitt on the ground or get it in an area with severe contamination, it is very important to replace with a clean one or thoroughly rinse it before you continue.

If you choose to only use a 2 bucket method with a rinse and wash bucket, we highly suggest washing your wheels last. If you prefer to wash the wheels first, rinse your bucket thoroughly before starting on the paint. Also use a different mitt for your wheels and paint.

After your vehicle is coated, you should not have to scrub to remove dirt and contamination. Do not apply hard pressure, just use the weight of the mitt to gently remove Contaminants.

Always use a PH neutral car shampoo safe for coatings. Never use acidic or caustic cleaners on your ceramic coating. Using these types of cleaners can damage and degrade your coating.

If possible, we recommend using a pressure wash to spray off entire vehicle first, removing large and loose debris.

Next, use a foam cannon to spray entire vehicle with a ph neutral, coating safe shampoo. Let it sit for several minutes, not allowing it to dry. Rinse off again. This process will help loosen and remove more contaminates. Never use a pressure washer with extreme high pressure. It is best to stay a safe distance from paint with nozzle, we recommend 3 feet minimum.

NEVER PUT A DRY TOWEL ON YOUR PAINT. We do not recommend using a shammy or squeegee. Only use a recommended or approved drying towel, always make sure it is wet before using.

Your new coating is extremely hydrophobic. The best method for drying your vehicle is with a battery powered blower or compressed air. This will easily remove most of the water, then you can finish up with your damp drying towel. Never scrub with your towel, very lightly drag it across the surface.

*Avoid washing in direct sunlight or extreme heat when possible. Never allow soap or cleaners to dry on the surface.  This includes any products such as sealants, toppers, etc. 

*We recommend staying away from automatic car washes at all cost. If you absolutely must use one of these car washes, make sure it is touchless. Any evidence of automatic car wash use or improper wash methods could void your coating warranty. This is at the discretion of your coating installer. This includes improper drying and application (toppers, sealants, or anything that requires touching the vehicle with a towel or mitt) methods. It is very important that you or whoever maintains your vehicle are familiar with and adhere to the proper wash and maintenance methods to avoid scratching or degrading your coating and paint.

*If you have questions or concerns, make sure to contact us immediately. If there is an issue, it is much better for us to know sooner than later.

*Feel free to contact us regarding proper wash methods and recommended products to care for your vehicle properly.

*We require a maintenance wash and inspection every six months to maintain the coating warranty and ensure peak performance and longevity. This is to be performed only by Tri-star Coatings