So you’ve done all the research, gathered all the right products and you are ready to detail. You’ve completed a large part of the preparation but there is more you can do before the detail begins. We’ll go over some things you can do before you detail that ensures your detail will go smoothly.
The day before and the day of your detail you should check the weather to be sure it will be conducive to the detail. Extremely high and low temperatures or precipitation can affect your decision on whether or not to detail. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
Detailing may require you to use some muscle groups you do not use on a regular basis. To help loosen these muscles and minimize soreness you should develop a good stretching routine. Your arms, back and legs will all get a good work out, so take the time to stretch them out before beginning.
Wear clothing that is appropriate for the weather and safe to have on around a vehicle. Your clothes are likely to touch the paint at some point, even if you are careful. Clothing articles like rivets on jeans, belt buckles, zippers, buttons and other objects can do plenty of damage to your vehicle. Make sure you take off any jewelry, keys, cell phones, etc. that may scratch the paint or other surfaces. The clear coat can be scratched much easier than you might think, so don’t underestimate the importance of wearing appropriate clothes.
You should also try and estimate how long the detail will take and allocate more time than you think will be needed. I typically try and make sure that I have 25% more time than I think I need, just to be sure I have enough time to complete the detail. For example if you think the detail will take 4 hours, allocate 5 hours just in case it’s needed. If you end up rushing you will likely sacrifice some quality and add more stress to your day. There are very few times I detail where I don’t see something I just “have to” take care of, while I didn’t plan for it. Sometimes I need to clay an especially contaminated area, polish out a scratch I had not seen previously, remove tar or other unexpected detailing needs. You may also have other unexpected interruptions like phone calls, neighbors stopping by, errands, etc. While these things are unexpected they are very normal and should be planned for by adding some extra time for the detail.
You should also plan plenty of breaks, where you can rest, eat and re-hydrate. We all get wrapped up in our work at times, but it’s important to pace yourself. If you burn yourself out in the first couple of hours you could be putting your health at risk and reduce the quality of your detail. You need to be disciplined and stick to a schedule where you take breaks and stay energized. We recommend taking a short break hourly and drinking fluids each time. You may also want to make sure you get out of the sun and elevate your feet as needed. While it seems obvious, you should plan on eating as well. You’re going to be expending plenty of energy and your body will need more nutrition to keep going. Make sure you have some food in your home so you don’t have to take an extended break that could interrupt your detailing plans.