Wax vs Ceramic vs Graphene: Which Surface Protectant is Best?

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.

Carnauba wax (lesser known as palm wax or brazil wax) is a natural product that comes from the leaves of the Brazilian palm tree. It is one of the best car waxes on the market and it has a variety of benefits for your vehicles.

In this article, we discuss what Carnauba wax is, how it is made, and the benefits that it provides. We will also compare it to other types of car waxes so that you can decide if carnauba is right for you!

What is a Car Wax?

Car wax is any product that is used to protect the paint or clear coat on a car. It is applied to the car's surface and then buffed in with a clean microfiber towel (if applied manually), leaving a layer of protection. Wax can also be used to shine the car's paint and make it look new.

There are two types of car wax: natural and synthetic. Natural waxes are things like beeswax and carnauba wax (palm wax). Synthetic waxes are made from emulsifications of protective synthetic polymers.

Most car waxes today are synthetic because they provide better protection and last longer than natural waxes. However, natural waxes are known to give the car's paint a deeper shine. When used in combination, these two types of waxes can provide the best protection and shine for your car.

What is Carnauba Wax?

Carnauba wax is a natural, plant-based product that is prized for its ability to create a deep shine on painted surfaces. It is made from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera, a Brazilian palm tree. Carnauba wax is harvested by hand and then refined to create a product that can be used on cars.

How is Carnauba Wax Made?

Pure carnauba wax is made from the leaves of the Brazilian palm. The leaves are harvested and then dried in the sun. Once they are dry, the leaves are beaten to release the wax.

The wax is then filtered and refined to remove impurities. The final product is a yellow or brownish paste wax that is hard at room temperature but melts when heated. So, unlike soft wax options (traditional paste waxes), carnauba will be tough to apply in its natural form.

What Makes Carnauba Special?

Carnauba is the hardest natural wax in the world and its also incredibly heat resistant. That means it can withstand high temperatures and still provide a protective coating.

Carnauba is tough and versatile enough that it is used in industrial applications like floor wax and furniture polish. On top of that you'll even find it in things like dental floss, surfboard wax and shoe polish.

Carnauba is also unique because it’s derived from a the carnauba palm. This makes it a renewable resource, which is good for the environment.

The Different Forms of Carnauba Wax

Carnauba wax comes in a variety of forms, including paste wax, spray wax, and liquid wax. Liquid carnauba wax is the most popular form on the market today.

• Carnauba paste wax is the purest form. It is made by heating the wax and then cooling it until it becomes solid. Applying carnauba wax in paste wax form is harder but it provides a longer lasting shine.
• Spray wax is the easiest form of wax to apply. It comes in a can or bottle, you spray it on the surface of the vehicle and buff it into the car's paintwork. Spray wax is not as durable as the other forms but it’s convenient and easy to use.
• Liquid wax is the most popular option because it’s easy to apply and provides a long-lasting shine. Liquid waxes give the best of both worlds between paste's durability and spray's convenience. Liquid wax is made by combining carnauba wax with other ingredients like oils and solvents.

Other carnauba waxes are available in gel and powder form. These are less common but they can still be easier to apply than paste waxes.

The Benefits to Using Carnauba Wax on Your Vehicle

Carnauba car wax is one of the best waxes on the market. It has a variety of benefits for your vehicle, including:

• A high melting point: this means that it can withstand higher temperatures in warm climates without losing its shine.
• A deep, natural shine: carnauba provides a deep, natural shine to your vehicle.
• Protection from the elements: carnauba protects your vehicle from rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
• Protective qualities: carnauba wax protects against common environmental contaminants such as bird droppings, tree sap, and road grime.
• A long lasting finish: carnauba lasts longer than other types of natural car waxes, so you won’t have to wax your car as often.
• Ease of application: carnauba is easy to both apply and remove.
• Environmentally friendly: carnauba wax is both biodegradable and non toxic.

The benefit list is lengthy, but those are some of the major reasons why carnauba is often called the king (or queen) of car wax.

So, What’s the Downside to Using Carnauba Wax?

The biggest downside of carnauba wax is that it doesn’t last as long as some synthetic options. This means that you will need to reapply it more often in order to maintain the benefits.

However, many people find that the extra elbow grease is worth it for the superior results that carnauba waxes provide.

For great results without wearing out your shoulders just check out a car wash using a high quality carnauba product.

How Long Does Carnauba Wax Last on Vehicles?

Most carnauba waxes generally last about three to six months on a car. However, this can vary depending on the type of carnauba wax you use, the frequency of washing your car and exposure to the elements.

If you want your carnauba based wax to last longer, there are a few things you can do:

• Apply a thin layer of wax: A thin layer of wax will last longer than a thick layer.
• Wash your car regularly: Washing your car removes dirt and debris that can wear down the wax.
• Avoid exposure to the elements: If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, you may need to reapply your wax more often.

Utilizing these tips will save you time, money, and effort when it comes to maintaining the protective qualities and show car shine the carnauba brings to your vehicle.

How to Apply Carnauba Wax

Carnauba wax can be applied by hand or at a professional car wash.

We'll touch on both methods. Maybe you're a car enthusiast wanting to take care of your prized possession. Or a car wash owner looking at adding the popular Brazilian wax (no not that kind of Brazilian wax) to your service list.

Other waxes will typically have the same process of application.

If You're Applying the Wax By Hand or At Home:

• Start with a clean, dry car. Make sure you're removing any contaminants that could sit under the spray wax using a clay bar.
• It's best to apply wax in the shade as direct sunlight can cause the wax to dry too quickly and be difficult to move.
• Using a foam applicator or your hands (wearing gloves), apply a small amount of wax to one section at a time in a thin, even layer.
• Next, using a clean, dry microfiber towel or buffing machine, move the wax in a circular motion being sure to go over each section multiple times.
• Repeat this process until the entire car is complete to establish the protective layer.

If You're Applying the Wax Using a Car Wash:

• Again, it's important to start with a clean car (hence why you're at a car wash)
• At the wash, you'll pull your car onto the conveyor belt of the tunnel car wash or into the wash bay and wax will be applied near the end of the wash process, before the drying process.
• Once complete, the car will be rinsed and dried.

It is much easier to wax your car's paint job at a car wash instead of doing it yourself, which is why most people opt for this method. This also is a great reason to ensure your car wash offers wax as an option to your customers!

How Do Carnauba Waxes Compare to Other Types of Car Waxes?

Carnauba is often compared to synthetic options like polymer clear coat sealants and synthetic carnauba waxes. While these products may last longer, they don’t provide the same level of shine as pure carnauba.

Additionally, carnauba wax is a natural product that is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Synthetic alternatives are made from chemicals that may be harmful to the environment (if you're unsure of what you're buying).

All Turtle Wax Pro chemicals are carefully formulated to be biodegradable and are often reclaim system compatible.

What are Some Other Options?

Carnauba is just one of the options for protecting your car. There are a variety of other products on the market that can provide similar benefits.

Some of these options include:

• Polymer sealants or clear coat protectants
• Synthetic carnauba waxes
• Ceramic coatings
• Paint protection films

Polymer sealants and clear coat protectants are synthetic products that provide a long lasting glossy finish and added protection for your car.

Synthetic carnauba waxes are created to mimic the properties of pure carnauba wax. However, they are typically cheaper than pure carnauba and don’t provide the same level of protection or shine.

Ceramic coatings are a relatively new option on the market. They provide a long lasting, durable finish that is resistant to scratches and UV rays.

Paint protection films are clear films that are applied to the surface of your car. They protect the paint from light scratches, chips, swirl marks and UV rays. These films are one of the most expensive options on the market, but they offer the highest level of protection for your car.

The option that is right for you will depend on your budget, goals, and level of experience. However, carnauba is a top option and it is a great choice for those who are looking for lasting protection and shine for their car.

Is Carnauba Wax Better than Synthetic Wax or Paint Sealants?

Carnauba wax is still commonly seen as the best car wax on the market for the many benefits it provides while still being very environmentally friendly. But does that make it better than the synthetic varieties?

What gives a better protection?

High quality waxes like carnauba are great for protection against the elements and common contaminants, but some synthetic options can offer a superior protection to carnauba. Synthetic waxes can be formulated with chemicals that bond with the vehicle's paint or clear coat and thus, may do a better job at protecting against light scratches, chips, swirl marks and UV rays. If you're interested in rust protection, you may want to look at a product specialized for the job.

What is the best for a deep shine?

A high quality carnauba provides a deep, natural shine that synthetic products can’t match. Thus, for a show car, carnauba is typically the right choice.

Which option lasts longer?

Synthetic waxes and sealants will usually last longer than carnauba based waxes, meaning you won’t have to reapply as often to maintain the protection on the vehicle's paint.

Which is Easier to Use and Apply?

Carnauba wax is generally much easier to apply and remove than synthetic options, making it a good choice for first-time users or those who don’t want to deal with the eventual hassle of removing it from their vehicle.

What is More Environmentally Friendly?

Carnauba wax is a natural product that is biodegradable, renewable and environmentally friendly. Synthetic options can be made from chemicals that may be harmful to the environment, making carnauba a better choice for those who are extremely eco-conscious.

What is the More Expensive Option?

Synthetic options can be more expensive than carnauba wax depending on the option chosen.

Some synthetic options are more cost friendly (ex: synthetic carnauba wax) than natural carnauba wax but some can also be more expensive (ex: ceramic coatings). In addition, pure carnauba wax can also differ in price depending on the quality of that raw materials.

What is the Best Option Overall?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and preferences. But, carnauba wax can offer you a wide range of benefits, some of which, synthetics cannot replicate effectively.

Is Carnauba the Right Wax Choice for You?

If you are looking for a natural product that will give your car a high-gloss finish and superior protection, then carnauba is the right choice for you. Just be prepared to reapply it more often than some synthetic options.

How to Choose the Right Carnauba Wax?

Now that you know all about carnauba and its benefits, you may be wondering what are the best carnauba waxes.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choose a high quality carnauba wax: carnauba wax can vary in quality, so make sure to choose a reputable brand.
• Consider your budget: carnauba wax can vary in grades, with the higher grades of wax (ex: yellow grade, the highest grade wax) being more expensive.
• Think about your needs: carnauba wax is available in a variety of formulations, so choose one that meets your specific needs.
• Know your vehicles: Dark colored vehicles sometimes have specially designed forms of wax as they are prone to imperfections once normal carnauba wax is applied.

Choosing a High Quality Brand like Turtle Wax Pro

There are many brands that sell car wax and carnauba wax, but not all of them are created equal. When choosing a wax, it’s important to choose a high-quality brand that will help you succeed in the car wash industry.

Turtle Wax Pro offers a wide range of benefits that make it the perfect choice for those looking for a top-quality set of chemicals.

Professionalism

The Turtle Wax brand has existed and been trusted for over 75 years. We know the car wash industry inside and out.

Which type of waxes, sealants and protectants will work for the best car wash and how to apply them evenly are just a few examples of the expertise that working with an industry leader like Turtle Wax Pro will provide your car wash.

Our company has a passion for cars that is evident in everything we do. From customer service, to the quality of our products, we ensure that not only do you have a fantastic service to offer your customers but also a strong relationship with a brand who truly cares.

Quality

As mentioned before, Turtle Wax Pro prides itself on having the best products in the business. We have decades of experience on helping car washes succeed in the industry, and one of the reasons is due to our products.

Carnauba wax is one of the best ways to protect a car and make it shine. And using Turtle Wax Pro (especially our Triple Shine Wax) ensures a top quality finish that will keep your cars in tip-top shape for years to come.

We hope that you now feel a little more comfortable when it comes to the largest car wax on the market and hope it will help you make the right choice on whether carnauba wax is the right option for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us! We would be happy to discuss the right car wax for your car wash needs.

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.

Car washes exist all over the world in so many different environments, locations, with various clienteles, and of course, vehicles. But something all car wash businesses need is car wash chemicals. With the common goal of cleaning cars and so many different chemical options on the market, it's tough for newly starting out car washes to know what they need to operate and what can they add to their wash lineup.

As a car wash owner, you will want to ensure you have a strong understanding of car wash chemistry, chemical types, and their uses.

Car Wash Chemistry

Car washes are designed to clean customers' vehicles, specifically the exterior of vehicles. They use a variety of chemicals to not only clean cars but protect them and improve their appearance by providing a strong shine.

There are no one size fits all car wash chemicals, there are many different types of chemicals and they have different jobs. Some may even have unique advantages over another and some may have disadvantages. Chemicals will also differ in the method you intend to use them as touchless washes for instance will need different types of chemicals than soft-touch washes.

Touchless Car Washes

In touchless washes, the car is cleaned without any physical contact between the wash equipment and the car's surface. This type of wash uses high-pressure streams of water to remove dirt and grime instead of soft cloths or brushes.

Since friction aids the cleaning process greatly, chemicals in touchless car washes need to be prepared to do more heavy lifting and thus need to be different than other chemicals.

Let's take a look at all the different types of chemicals car washes use.

The Basics

The 'basics' are the chemicals that most car washes need to do their job of washing vehicles. Though these car wash chemicals can still differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, almost all car washes will use these chemicals to conduct their business.

Presoaks

Presoaks are the first step in any car wash and their job is to loosen up all the dirt, grime, and build-up on a car. This makes it much easier for your other chemicals to clean and do their job effectively. This is especially the case for the application of protectants such as waxes and sealants.

Tunnel car washes will typically have a presoak arch at the beginning of the wash but some do not use presoaks in their wash process. This is typically due to a lack of space with smaller tunnel washes but we highly recommend your car wash utilizes presoaks as it will make the rest of your wash that much better.

Presoaks come in a variety of pH ranges, mostly low pH and high pH but some products offer a middle ground to ensure the experience can be tailored for every situation.

Impact of pH in Presoaks

Higher pH presoaks will do a better job of tackling organic material, greasy and oily soils on vehicles, this is due to it being more alkaline.

Lower pH presoaks are more acidic and thus, better at removing non-organic dust and dirt off surfaces.

Which presoak your car wash will want to use will depend on various factors but your location is one of the most important.

Detergents (aka Shampoo or Car Wash Soap)

Detergents are the next step in the wash process. These products are best at removing dirt. Detergents can also vary in pH from high to low and car wash soap is also used to prepare cars for drying as they aid in water wicking.

The incorrect type of car wash soap can create a water-retentive surface, so it is important to choose the right kind of product for your wash scenario.

Tire/Wheel Cleaners

Tire cleaners come in acidic and alkaline types and as you might have guessed, is used to clean the wheels of a vehicle. Specifically, tire cleaners take off the dirt and grime from wheels, tires, brakes, etc.

Wheels often are the dirtiest part of the vehicle, so it is a must for car washes to tackle them with the utmost quality and speed, especially since not all rims will be OEMs and may be an aftermarket part. The last thing you want to happen as a car wash is to damage a customer's vehicle.

Triple Foam Products

Triple foams are neutral or acidic products that either further clean the car (condition) or apply a layer of wax (polish), and in many cases, car washes opt to use both.  

A triple foam of some variety is used by many car washes, but customers usually must upgrade to receive it on their vehicle. They are a popular choice of customers as they have a strong visual benefit of the tricolors, this is where the product gets its name from.

It even strengthens the rest of the washing process by not only cleaning it further but preparing the car for a protectant and helping the drying process in a later stage.

Paint Sealants, Ceramic Coatings, Waxes and other Protectants

Protectants come in many different forms and they all have their unique advantages and disadvantages.

Sealants bond with the vehicle's surface and protect it from weather and light marks, they may also offer some form of shine. Sealants are synthetic and try to bond in the pores of a car, this allows them to be exceptional at UV protection.

While wax will focus on providing a brilliant shine, with a weaker form of protection than sealants could provide. Waxes can be synthetic as well but are usually made of more natural ingredients, carnauba being a popular option.

Ceramic coatings are a thin layer of polymer that create a barrier between the vehicle and anything that comes into contact with it. Ceramics provide paint protection from the elements and UV rays, hydrophobicity, shine, and more.

Drying Agents

After all the cleaning has taken place, the vehicle will be given a drying agent which provides a hydrophobic nature to its surface. They are typically synthetic oil based and thus, are used to repel water off the vehicle in water beads. This helps the high powdered dryers to quickly wick the water off the vehicle, so it can leave dry.

Those are the more standard car wash chemicals you will see used in car washes. Next up we'll discuss the more niche or specialty chemicals that car washes will use.

Specialties  

Specialties are car wash chemicals that you may not see being used in every car wash. Only some washes will choose to offer this product as it may pertain to their location, climate, or business model. Some car washes will only carry a limited stock of it to fit a certain time of the year, such as bug season.

Bug Removers

These are often alkaline chemicals used to remove the remains of bugs on vehicles, also often called bug splats. In some areas and some times of the year, there may be a high prevalence of bug splats on vehicles and they can be difficult to remove them.

They work by essentially 'dissolving' the bug so that it can be easily removed by the wash process but it is not always a quick process. The chemical may need to sit on the vehicle for a minute or two for the effect to take place.

Glass Cleaners

Glass cleaners are used to clean the windows of a vehicle and leave it streak free. They help driver impairment by making water and other vision blocks wick off the surface quickly.

Undercarriage Rust Inhibitors

The car wash will spray a light coat of inhibitor on the undercarriage which will help to prevent rust from forming. It becomes a protective coat underneath the vehicle which provides protection against moisture from water and snow year-round.

Tire Dressings

Tire dressings provide a consistent shine and protection to the rubber. It also can help repel water and snow which will keep the tires from degrading as quickly. They come in a few different forms such as water based which are the thinnest and least lasting, solvent-based which has better shine, and silicone which is the thickest and carries the best shine.

Tire dressings can also make future cleaning easier.

Wheel Protectants

Wheel protectants also offer shine but are often used for their protection from scraps, dirt, and grime. Using wheel protectants also makes cleaning easier in future washes.

Interior Cleaners

While most car washes only focus on the exterior cleaning of vehicles, there are some that will also clean the interior of vehicles as well.

Interior cleaners or detailing products are different than exterior ones as the materials within a car are greatly different than the outside of a car.

If you're interested in reading about interior cleaning and their chemicals, you can read our previous article here.

Chemical Concerns? Contact Turtle Wax Pro

Turtle Wax has a 97% brand recognition for good reason, we manufacturer great chemistry and support our clients and customers so they can achieve success within the car wash industry. The right chemical supplier will ensure your business has all the supplies, training, and expertise it needs to compete within the market.

If you have any questions regarding the car wash chemical types, your own current chemistry, or looking for a place to start, get in contact with us! We would be happy to walk you through the different chemical options and see what is the best fit for you and your car wash business.