CAR WASH BLOG

Rust is a top challenge for both car owners and car wash operators during the colder months.

It's critical to take the appropriate actions and precautions against rust in order for your customer's vehicles to continue to shine.

Today's blog will describe those preventive measures, so you can continue to succeed in the car wash business even as the dreaded winter weather approaches.

What exactly is rust?

Rust is the result of a reaction between oxygen and iron.

When these two elements come into contact with each other, they create a chemical called ferrous oxide. This substance is very corrosive, and it can eat away at the frame of a vehicle, most commonly in wheel wells or doors.

Rust can also occur when water or moisture comes into contact with the metal. The water will cause the metal to oxidize, and this will result in rust.

How do cars get rust?

There are a few different ways that rust forms.

Exposure to Salt Water, Road Salt and Rock Salt

One way a car can be damaged is if it's exposed to salt water.

Saltwater is very corrosive, and it can damage the metal on your car. If you live near the ocean, or if you frequently drive in salty conditions, you will need to be extra careful about preventing rust.

Salt can also damage a car if it's used to melt ice on the roads in the winter season. If salt comes into contact with a car, it will start to corrode the metal. This can cause significant damage to the car, and it will likely require extensive repairs.

Depending on the type of road salt or sand used it can also create small projectiles that can chip away at the paint and expose metal, furthering the problem. In areas the rely on rock salt it is possible to experience the same effect as rock chips if a large enough piece of salt contacts the body paint.

If you live in an area that uses salt to de-ice roads in winter months, you will need to take extra steps to prevent rust from forming on your car. Make sure you wash your car regularly to avoid salt stains. You may also want to consider keeping your car covered when it's not in use. This will help keep the salt and moisture away from the metal, and it will help extend the life of your vehicle.

Damage to the Paint or Clear Coat

Another way that cars can get rust is if the paint becomes damaged.

If the car's paint is scratched or chipped, it can expose the metal underneath to oxygen and moisture. This will cause the metal to oxidize, and it will eventually result in rust.

If you notice any damage to the paint on your car, make sure you take steps to repair it immediately. This will help protect your car from exposure to oxygen and moisture, and it will help prevent rust from forming.

Thunderstorms, Heavy Snow or Ice Storm

Another way that cars can get rust is if they are involved in thunderstorms, heavy snow or ice storms.

When the snow and ice melt, the water can seep into the cracks of your car, between doors, under the hood or into wheel wells. This can cause any exposed metal to oxidize, and it will eventually result in rust.
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If at all possible it is best to avoid driving during a major storm.

How does rust affect cars?

The majority of people are unaware of the significant effect rust can have on cars.

Damage the Metal

One of the most obvious effects of rust is that it can damage the metal. If the metal on your car becomes corroded, it will become weaker and less structurally sound. This can lead to serious problems, such as holes in the vehicle's frame, or even the collapse of the metal.

Damage The Paint

Another effect of rust is that it can cause paint damage. If the paint on your car becomes damaged, it will not only look bad, but it will also be more susceptible to further damage from rust.

Rust can also cause the paint to peel or chip off, which can expose additional metal underneath to oxygen and moisture. This will cause the metal to oxidize, and it will eventually result in more rust.

You can see the problem, rust damage can snowball out of control quickly leaving you with an unsightly and dangerous vehicle.

Damage the Value of Your Car

Another thing to keep in mind is that rust can affect the value of your car, due to the factors mentioned above.

If you're planning on selling your car, or if you're interested in trade-ins, rust can significantly reduce the value of your vehicle.

How to prevent car rust?

Just like if your in dash warning lights came on, if you see rust forming on your vehicle, you'll want to take action.

Wash Your Car Often

One of the best ways to prevent car rust is to wash your car more often.

How often will depend on your weather conditions, lifestyle, and usage but ensure your vehicle is well taken care of.

Washing your car will remove any dirt, grime, or salt that has accumulated on the body panels and undercarriage. This will help to prevent rust from forming in the first place.

Use a Rust Inhibitor

Another way to prevent car rust is to use a rust inhibitor.

Rust inhibitors are products that you can apply to the surface of your car. They create a barrier between the metal and oxygen, and they can help to prevent rust from forming.

There are many different rust inhibitors on the market, so be sure to do your research to find one that will work best for you.

Store Your Car in a Garage

If you have the option, store your car in a garage.

This will help to protect it from the elements, and it will also help to keep it clean. A clean car is less likely to develop rust than a dirty one.

Preventing rust on your vehicle isn't a difficult thing to do, but it takes some maintenance on your part. You may have some questions related to car and rust, so let's go through some of the common questions.

Does a car wash cause rust?

This is a common misconception. And it isn't true.

As long as you use a reputable car wash, they will not damage your paint or promote rusting and will go on a long way in preventing road salt damage and discouraging rust formation.

Does washing your car in winter prevent rust?

Washing your car in winter will help to remove any salt or grime that has accumulated on the surface.

Road salt is one of the major causes of rust forming on cars, and washing your car will lower that possibility.

Can you prevent rust underneath a car?

Yes, you can prevent rust on a vehicle's undercarriage.

You can apply a rust inhibitor to the underside of your car. Which applies a protective coat to the underside of vehicles.

Car washes usually also clean underneath vehicles, which also helps in preventing rust formation.  

How often should you wash your car?

Again, this will depend on your individual circumstances, but you should aim to wash your car at least once a month, but every week or two is even better.

If you live in an area with a lot of salt, snow or dirt, you may need to wash it more often.

Another thing to note is that modern vehicles may need to be washed less frequently than older ones, especially vintage models that are prone to rust and looking faded.

Does car wax protect against road salt?

Car wax is a protective coating that you apply to the surface of your car. It helps to protect the paint from scratches and UV damage.

While waxing won't provide the same amount of protection as a rust inhibitor will, it may be enough to stop some of the road salt from affecting your vehicle's exterior.

Washing and waxing your car regularly will help to keep it in good condition.

Do ceramic coatings help against road salt?

A ceramic coating on your vehicle may help with the salt affecting your vehicle as it does add some protection.

This protection is not as durable as a rust inhibitor though and will not last as long. It is important to remember that even with a ceramic coating, you should still wash your vehicle regularly to help prevent rust and keep it in good condition.

Not sure how to tackle the winter season? Reach out to Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem

Turtle Wax Pro is a universally recognized brand who is a leader in chemical manufacturing. Transchem Group adds decades of experience cleaning cars and supporting car wash operators in all seasons, and that includes the harsh winter ones.

If you operate in a region that faces what winter brings: salt, snow, ice, then you will need to be sure to tune your wash to meet those needs. The best way to do that is to reach out and ask for help. Contact us today, and we will help you get ready for the winter season!

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At Turtle Wax Pro, and our parent company, Transchem Group, we are proud to support the local economy in Alberta.

We have over 75 years of experience in the car wash industry, which allows us to ensure that your dream car wash can come true in Western Canada's fast-growing market.

We believe Transchem Group offers many key benefits that set us apart as a supplier. Our state-of-the-art facility in Alberta, premium Turtle Wax Pro car wash chemicals, top-tier customer service and direct-to-market pricing, keeps your business cost-effective.

A Brief History of Transchem Group

Transchem Group was founded in 1974 by Murray Ewing, as a mobile truck cleaning company. Over the next decade, with strong success, Transchem transformed into a chemical manufacturer and sold products directly to businesses.

The company has continued to grow, and has now arrived where we are today: one of the most prominent options in the car wash industry, anywhere in Alberta, Canada or even North America.

The brand's new objective, as a result of its many years of experience supporting all types of wash businesses, is to aid the Alberta car wash industry. This includes chemistry, equipment, service, and anything else required to run a car wash!

A Brief History of Turtle Wax

Turtle Wax Pro is the commercial car wash arm of the world-renowned vehicle care brand, Turtle Wax. For over 75 years, we've been producing some of the most innovative car care products on the market.

Innovation has always been at the forefront of our business and we continue to lead the way with cutting edge technology and car cleaning solutions.

We are proud to be a part of the Turtle Wax family and to offer our premium car care products to the Alberta market.

If you're looking for a trusted and experienced car wash supplier in Alberta, look no further than Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem Group. We are your one-stop shop for all your car wash needs.

The Importance of your Supplier

As a business in the wash industry, your supplier will be one of the most significant factors in your success. Quality of products, quantity of products, knowledge, training, advertising help and car wash services are just a few of the many tools a good supplier should offer.

It's important to pick your supplier wisely, as that choice could determine your business' future. If you want to learn more about the role a supplier plays in your wash, check out our blog about how to choose a car wash supplier which features all of the vital factors in your decision.

Why Transchem Group?

There are numerous aspects that we believe set us apart as a supplier in the car wash industry. We believe our products, service, and support are the best you can find anywhere in Alberta car wash market.

Our Facility

Our new state-of-the-art facility in Calgary, Alberta, is one of the largest car wash supplier facilities in Western Canada. The location is thousands of square feet of space and is equipped with the latest in car wash technology. All chemicals and equipment are housed on-site, and your important support contacts all operate out of this building.

This means whether you need new stock, marketing materials, or need an in person meeting, we're only a quick drive away.

Our Equipment

Transchem carries equipment for all wash types, from self service car wash to tunnel washes.

We also proudly carry Washworld Inc.'s full portfolio of in-bay automatic products.

High-quality equipment is something you want to feel confident in when opening up your wash business. High-grade equipment achieves better washes, offers easier maintenance, and provides increased durability, all of which lead to higher margins and more money.

Our Chemistry

Here at Transchem, we are happy to say that not only do we have industry leading chemistry to suit every budget and business need, but we also have custom blending options that accompany our ready to use professional product lineups.

Custom blending is exciting program where we bring your dream products to life. We collaborate with you to develop one-of-a-kind items that will set your business apart and help you achieve the best results.

We also offer Turtle Wax Pro's full chemistry lineup and marketing power, which is universally recognizable by vehicle owners and achieves some of the best car washing possible!

Our Support

At Transchem Group and Turtle Wax Pro, we have decades of experience bringing new washes to the market, and supporting them through their journey from inception to millions of washed cars.

We believe in strong key principles of trust and integrity, and we want to make certain that all of our clients receive the finest service so they can succeed in the car wash industry.

This means we supply more than just chemicals and equipment. We offer advice on how to keep costs low, ever-changing chemical combinations to help you improve your service, mobile app technology, marketing support and regulatory support.

Contact us with your Car Wash Vision!

If opening a car wash in Alberta is something you're considering, do not hesitate to reach out! We would love to hear from you and help you walk through some of the aspects and challenges of opening a wash and make the process as smooth as possible!

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The popularity of touchless car washes is on the rise. This has led many individuals to be curious about whether they are the future of vehicle cleaning.

There are several benefits to a touchless car wash for both customers and owners.

Touchless washes, as the name implies, never make direct contact with the car's surface. A major reassurance to certain car owners.

In addition, with the right chemistry, touch free washes can perform just as well as friction washes in most scenarios. This could make switching to a touchless car wash a no brainer.

In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of a touchless automatic car wash and help you decide if owning one is the right decision for you!

What is a Touchless Car Wash?

A touchless car wash is a type of automatic car wash where the vehicle is cleaned without any physical contact.

The car is washed using increased water pressure and detergents specifically designed to work without friction.

Touchless car washes are faster than traditional car washes, and they typically use less water. While the most common type of touchless car wash is an in bay automatic car wash, touchless tunnel car washes are also found in lower quantities.

How Does a Touchless Car Wash Work?

Most of the car wash process is the same between a traditional automatic car wash and a touchless car wash.

• The car is given a rinse or a presoak treatment to loosen any dirt or grime that is on the surface.
• After the pre-wash, high water pressure nozzles direct streams of water and detergent at the car. The detergent breaks down any remaining dirt, and the high-pressure water blasts it away.
• The final step is to rinse off all of the soap layers and dirt.
• Optionally, a surface protectant or ceramic coating can be applied to the vehicle's exterior.
• The excess moisture is then dried using high powered dryers, or left to air dry.

For more info on ideal tunnel car wash setups you can check out our Turtle Wax Pro Learning Center!

As you can see, the biggest difference is the fact that pressure washing systems are used in replace of rotating brushes and other physical systems.

Is Touchless Car Washing the Future of the Car Wash Industry?

Touchless washes carry some unique benefits that a traditional automatic car wash cannot provide.

This leads some to believe that this style of washing vehicles is the future of the industry.

No Physical Contact

The fact that there is no physical contact to anyone's vehicle is the main advantage to using this type of wash.

Most vehicle owners are wary of automated washes because they fear their vehicles will not be properly cleaned without causing harm. However, with a touchless wash, there is no worry that the car will be scratched or damaged in any way.

This gives many people confidence to use an automated car wash when they otherwise would not.

Advances in Chemistry

The detergents and soaps used in touchless car washes are specially designed to work well without physical contact.

If a touchless car wash can produce the same level of clean as a friction one, then the need for friction washes depletes. As this technology continues to develop, it is likely that touchless car washes will become even more of a staple.

While a touchless car wash will never be able to achieve 100% of the results from a friction wash, it can come pretty close. The final product is a car that looks great to the naked eye and was cleaned without any risk of damage!

Benefits of Touchless Car Washes

There are many benefits to using touchless car washes. Let's go through them.

24/7/365 and Less Labor

Touchless car washes can be operated 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with little to no labor.

This means that you can generate revenue around the clock without having to pay employees!

In addition, touchless car washes are less labor intensive than friction car washes. This is because there are no brushes or other moving parts that need to be monitored and maintained.

Less Water Usage

Touchless car washes use less water for every car washed, compared to other car wash options.

This is good news for the environment and can save you money on your water bill!

Less Risk of Damage

There is also less risk of damage to vehicles with a touchless car wash.

Though friction washes are completely safe for vehicles, even the small risk of paint damage can be negated by not having to touch a vehicle's surface.

Lower Money Spent on Repairs

Another benefit of touchless automatic car washes is that they have lower maintenance costs.

This is because there are no spinning brushes, cloth strips or other moving parts that can break down over time. This means that a touchless wash will last longer and need less repairs than other automated car washes.

Disadvantages of Touchless Washes

Though there are many benefits to a touchless system, there are also some disadvantages that should be considered.

Potential Lack of Cleaning Power

Some tough marks, grime and bird droppings may not be removed as effectively with a touchless wash.

This is because there is no physical contact to help break down and remove dirt. This can be an issue for those who want their car to be absolutely spotless or are trying to wash an especially dirty vehicle.

Some customers may be slightly dissatisfied, but touchless does an excellent job of cleaning cars in general.

In order to clean effectively in this environment you'll need great chemicals. That's where Turtle Wax Pro can help. We offer a variety of products that can be used in touchless car washes to help you get the best clean possible.

Turtle Wax Pro has everything you need to make sure your automated car wash is operating at its best! We have a wide selection of cleaning solutions, soaps, detergents, waxes and polishes that are designed to work well in a touchless environment.

How does a Friction Based Automated Car Washes Compare to Touchless Systems?

A friction based automatic car wash uses spinning brushes or cloth strips to clean a vehicle's surface.

This can provide a more thorough cleaning than a touchless wash but can also be more labor intensive and water consumptive.

Touchless car washes, on the other hand, use high-pressure jets of water and detergent to clean a vehicle's surface.

This can be just as effective as a friction wash but doesn't run the risk of scratching the paint or clear coat during cleaning.

So, which is better? It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a thorough cleaning with no risk of damage, then touchless is the way to go. If you don't mind more maintenance and a little bit of risk in exchange for the best clean then you are better off with a friction wash.

Are Touchless Car Washes Safe?

Are touchless car washes safe? The whole idea behind touchless is safety.

With no brushes or other moving parts, there is less risk of breakdowns causing damage to your car. In addition, the high-pressure jets used in automatic car washes are less likely to cause scratches than traditional brushes.

Keep in mind that when it comes to all of these safety conversations we are talking about the difference between a 99.5% expectation of safety with a 99.9% expectation of safety.

You are far more likely to scratch or damage your car hand washing it at home in the driveway than in a commercial car wash situation.

Should I Wash My Car At Home Or At A Commercial Car Wash?

An automated car wash is going to be much better than a hand car wash for many reasons.

Speed

In the time that it takes you to get your car washed at home, a commercial car wash can clean upwards of 60 to 100 cars. Why waste an hour at home with a hand wash and when you could go buy gas and get an automatic wash in less than 10 minutes. Much less time consuming.

Damage

The most important part of keeping your car looking like new is the car's finish. A hand car wash at home means you assume your own risks.

Hand washes also usually aren't done with the right soap which can lead to paint damage long term.

Effectiveness

Without fully understanding the process of how to wash a car you are much less likely to remove all the dirt, grime and remove contaminants that could be embedded in the clear coat.

A touchless car wash or any other automatic wash is designed to get your car clean every time, hundreds of times per day.

Your clean car or truck might look clean after a hand wash but take it to a commercial car wash and you'll see the difference.

Thinking about Opening an Automatic Car Wash? Use a Trusted Car Wash Supplier like Turtle Wax Pro

If you're thinking about opening a touchless car wash, be sure to use a trusted car wash chemistry provider like Turtle Wax Pro.

The chemistry your wash uses will make or break your success. Touchless washes, in particular, where the more powerful chemicals tackle all the washing jobs without assistance from physical agitators, are a challenge to get right.

Turtle Wax Pro is a leading provider of car care chemistry and we strive to help car care businesses succeed within the industry.

We work with many touch free washes, setting them up with the right chemistry needed to tackle any situation and stand out within the market.

If you have any thoughts about opening your own touchless car wash, get in touch with us today as Turtle Wax Pro can ensure you start off on the right foot!

If you have any questions about anything we discussed, reach out anytime. We are always excited to chat with people who are thinking about entering the car wash space. Happy car washing!

While self serve washes are slowly being phased out in favor of more automatic washes, the self service car wash carries some unique benefits over other options on the market.

The ability to control the wash, the joy consumers have in washing their car and opportunity to save money are just some of the reasons why they remain popular!

In this article we discuss what self serve washes are, why they are so beneficial, and if owning one is right for you.

What is a Self Serve Car Wash?

A self service car wash machine (sometimes referred to as a manual car wash) is a type of car wash where the customer washes their own vehicle.

Customers typically use a high-pressure hose and a foam brush to wash their vehicles. Some self service car washes also have additional features, such as rinsing wands and drying equipment.

Benefits of a Self Service Car Wash

There are many benefits to washing your vehicle yourself at a self serve site. Let's go through them.

Cost

The main advantage is that they are generally less expensive than automatic washes. The biggest reason for this is due to the fact that there are no large machinery and equipment doing the cleaning.

Eco Conscious

Another benefit of manual car washes is that they are typically more environmentally friendly than automatic washes. This is because self service car washes use less water than traditional car washes.

This is often counteracted in an automatic wash by having a water reclaim system.

Quality

Some people worry that self service car washes are not as effective at cleaning vehicles as automatic washes. However, this is not always the case.

Self service car washes can sometimes do a better job of cleaning your vehicle because they allow you to control the amount of pressure, water and most importantly detail that you use.

This means that you can customize the wash to your own vehicle's needs and car appearance.

How do Automatic Car Washes differ from Self Serve Washes?

What is an automatic car wash?

An automatic car wash is any type of car wash where the vehicle is cleaned by hands-free machinery.

The customer typically drives their vehicle into a large garage like bay or tunnel, where they are then cleaned by a series of brushes or high pressure jets.

Now let's compare it to a self serve car wash.

Customers in a self-serve car wash must do all of the washing steps on their own. This includes applying soap, rinsing the vehicle, and scrubbing with a foam brush.

This can be an enjoyable experience to some, but will be fairly time consuming especially compared to how quickly an automatic car wash can clean a vehicle.

Automatic options don't give the user much control over the wash, but typically can do a more thorough job cleaning for less effort. This is due to the high pressure washing systems and brushes that are commonly used in automatic car washes.

Overall, self serve car washes are a great option for people who want to have complete control over the car washing process. However, they may not be the best option for people who are looking for a quick and easy wash.

How to Best Use a Self Serve Car Wash?

Now that we've gone over the benefits of self service car washes, as well as what they are, let's discuss how to get the most out of your self serve car wash experience.

Here are a few basic steps for a good car wash:

1. Drive and park your vehicle in the car wash bay.
2. Start by rinsing off your whole car with water. This will remove any large dirt or debris from your vehicle.
3. Optionally you can remove your floor mats to be rinsed as well.
4. Apply soap to your entire vehicle in a pre wash or presoak (depending on options available).
5. Use the foam brush to clean off your wheels. (You may want to rinse the foam brush first to remove existing dirt from the last use)
6. Rinse the soap residue off the car properly with a high pressure rinse.
7. Apply wax or another surface protection option (if available)
8. Dry the vehicle if desired (using an automatic dryer if present or car towel)
9. Congratulations you have a clean car!

By following these simple tips, you'll be on your way to having a sparkling clean vehicle in no time!

Here are some more tips to use a self service wash:

1. Make sure you adjust the foam sprayer settings when possible to avoid wasting soap (and money).
2. Make sure not to miss the under side of your wheel wells, this is an often missed spot.
3. Avoid standing downwind, unless you feel like taking a bath too.
4. Always use the entire duration you're allotted to soap and rinse the car.
5. Try to find a car wash with soft water and heated water to avoid leaving behind mineral deposits on the paint job.
6. Avoid spraying water directly into the engine bay, this could damage critical electrical components.

What is The Wax Option at Self Serves?

Most self-serve car washes offer a wax service. It is typically a button or lever that, when activated, will allow a spray wand or another device to apply wax to your vehicle's finish.

This wax can help protect your vehicle's paint and make it easier to clean in the future.

Keep in mind that not all self serve car washes have this option.

Should I use the Wax at a Self Service Car Wash?

Whether you use the wax option is a personal preference, but we would always recommend applying some sort of wax or surface protection to a vehicle after cleaning it.

Wax and other protective products are specially formulated to protect against weather damage and other potential hazards, as well as add a beautiful shine to your car paint. They can also help prevent scratching on a car's surface.

How do I Dry my Car After Washing it at a Self Serve?

Some self serve car washes may have a high-powered air dryer that you can use to quickly dry your car's surface.

If there is no air dryer available, you can use a clean towel or simply leave the vehicle surfaces to drip dry naturally.

What Pressure should I use at a Self Serve Car Wash?

Since self serves are a bit more customizable, you may be able to adjust the sprayer settings to fit your situation.

It is generally best to use a lower pressure washer setting when washing your vehicle at a self serve station, at least at first.

This will help avoid scratches caused by large dirt particles in contact with the vehicle's surface.

Start washing with a low pressure spray and work your way up if needed.

Tough marks or old dirt may be more difficult to remove, increasing the need for a stronger water pressure. You will notice quickly if the pressure you selected is not strong enough for the dirty car.

Are Self Serve Washes a Good Business?

Self serve car washes can be a great business for a number of reasons.

They have great margins because they require less labor and are often open 24 hours, which means that they can generate income around the clock.

The return on investment for self serve car washes can be quite high as the investment is small compared to many other options. Self serve washes are a great option for entrepreneurs who are looking to start their own business but would need more money to build an automatic wash.

The car wash industry is still growing, which means that there is plenty of opportunity for those who are interested in getting involved.

Should you Open a Self Serve Wash over an Automatic Wash?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors. These include your location, target market and the level of investment you are willing to make.

Self serve car washes typically require less investment than automatic washes and can provide better margins. However, they may not be the best option for everyone.

Here are some factors to consider:

Initial Investment

Self serve car washes typically require a lower initial investment than their automatic counterpart.

This is because self serve washes do not require as much equipment or labor.

Location

Another factor to consider is your location. If you are in an area with a lot of foot traffic, an automatic wash may be a better option as people can simply drive through without having to get out of their car.

However, if you are in a more rural area, a self serve wash may be the better option as there are not as many options for people to choose from.

Target Market

Your target market is another important factor to consider. If you are targeting a budget-conscious market, a self serve wash may be the better option.

However, if you are targeting a luxury market, an automatic wash will be best. It can offer a more high-end experience.

Additionally, self serve car washes typically have a higher customer satisfaction rate than other types of professional car washes.

So if your target market are people who take a lot of pride in their car, self serve might actually be better. Those consumers can wash their car exactly how they want, instead of being given the same process as every other car.

How can you Open a Self Serve Car Wash?

If you are interested in opening a self serve car wash, there are a few things you need to do.

Find a Location

The most important factor when finding a good location for a car wash is traffic volume. This will help ensure that your car wash gets plenty of customers.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a location is the competition. You don't want to be in an area where there are already too many regular car washes, as this will cut into your profits.

You will also want to make sure that the location you choose is easily accessible and has good visibility from the road. This is still the #1 way new car washes are discovered.

Segment Your Target Market

The next step is to segment your target market. This means figuring out who your ideal customer is and what they are looking for in a car wash.

Once you have a good understanding of your target market, you can start to tailor your car wash to meet their needs.

Obtain Permits and Licenses

The next step is to obtain the necessary permits and licenses from your local government. This will vary depending on your location, but you will likely need a business license and a permit to operate a car wash.

You may also need additional permits if you plan on selling any additional services, such as detailing or oil changes.

One of the most important factors in opening any business is choosing your supplier. Transchem and Turtle Wax Pro have decades of experience helping many washes operate including self serves.

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Choosing Turtle Wax Pro as your Car Wash Self Service Supplier

At Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem, we understand the complications of owning a wash business. We strive to provide you with the tools needed to help you succeed.

The introduction of high-quality chemical solutions will allow for greater performance than cheap chemicals, as well as improved results thanks to the synergy between them.

That difference is what will allow your customers to achieve a perfect wash on their vehicle.

Additionally, Turtle Wax Pro offers a wide range of marketing materials that you can use to promote your business. We also offer training programs that will teach you everything you need to know about operating a self serve car wash.

All these factors ensure that your business can start off on a great foot and continue to operate at a high level.

If you are interested in opening a self serve car wash, Turtle Wax Pro is the perfect supplier for you.

A Quick Recap

There are many types of washes and they all shine in different ways. The Self serve option is no different can be fantastic for many car owners.

We hope to have given you a strong understanding on what self serve car washes are, what are they good for, and if owning a self serve wash is the right idea for you.

If you are interested in opening a car wash business, self serve is a great option to consider.

With a lower initial investment and with the likelihood of maintaining a high satisfaction rate, self serve is a low risk way of entering the car wash industry.

To aid you in that journey, Turtle Wax Pro offers high quality products as well as advice on how you can succeed in the wash market. As always, if you have any questions please let us know.

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There are a variety of ways to clean cars, but one option in particular has been gaining a lot of traction in recent years.

It's the tunnel car wash!

Tunnel washes are automatic car wash systems stretched through a tunnel ranging from 60' to 250'+ where each section of the tunnel applies a different chemical or service.

Tunnels are popular because they are quick and efficient, allowing many vehicles to pass through at once.

Let's discuss the tunnel in detail and explore the benefits it offers to the car wash operator.

What are Tunnel Car Washes?

A tunnel car wash is an automated car wash that uses conveyor belts to move the vehicle through a series of cleaning stations.

Tunnels are typically much larger than other types of car washes, and can wash up to a dozen cars at a time.

Different Types of Tunnel Car Wash Systems

Soft Cloth vs Touchless

Soft Cloth (or friction) is the most common type of tunnel system. As the name suggests, it uses soft cloths instead of brushes to clean the vehicle.

The benefit of using these soft cloths is that they are less likely to damage the paintwork on the car of the customer, when compared to brushes and nylon bristles that were common years ago.

A touchless tunnel system uses high-pressure water and chemistry to clean the vehicle, without any physical contact during washing. This is a great option for people who are worried about their car being scratched or damaged by any of the tunnel components.

Full Serve

A full service wash offers a complete package of extra services that includes everything from vacuuming the interior to washing and drying the exterior. At a full service wash, employee's will take the car from the customer and perform all the included services.

Flex Serve

A flex service wash allows the customer to choose which extra services they want, such as just an exterior washing or just a vacuum.

Express Exterior

An express exterior tunnel is exactly what it sounds like - a quick wash for the outside of your car.

A full service wash can offer the best customer experience. You deliver the car back to the customer nearly brand new with a full interior and exterior cleaning. Express washes are the quickest and most convenient. Flex service washes fall somewhere in the middle.

How do Touchless Car Washes Work?

Touchless car washes work by using a series of high-pressure nozzles to spray the vehicle with water and chemicals. The nozzles are controlled by a computer and can target specific areas of the car for a complete clean.

Touchless detergents are also designed to break down dirt and grime without the need for agitation and scrubbing which helps this process work so well.

However, the one downside is some tough dirt and grime may be too difficult to remove in a touchless wash.

Why Use a Tunnel Car Wash?

Now that we've discussed the different types of washes; let's take a look at some of the benefits of using them:

They're Fast and Convenient

If you're short on time, this is a great option as you simply ride through the tunnel. Each stage will take care of your car until its clean, shiny and dry!

They're Affordable

Tunnel systems are typically quite low-cost for customers, especially when you consider the speed and effectiveness.

They're Safe for Your Car

Tunnels are very safe for your vehicle as they are either touchless or use soft cloths to clean vehicles.

How do Tunnels Compare to Self Serve Car Washes?

Though tunnel and self serve are both viable options for you to clean cars, how do they compare?

Time

Tunnels can clean cars significantly quicker than a self-serve wash. Depending on the length of tunnel and speed of the conveyor, some washes can clean upwards of 100 cars per hour.

This is because the conveyor belts and sequence of equipment in a wash execute the whole process much more swiftly than one individual performing it alone.

Ease of Use

Tunnels are much easier to use than self serve as you don't have to do anything but drive your vehicle into the tunnel.

In a self serve wash, you have to apply the soap and rinse down the vehicle yourself.

Cost

Tunnel washes are typically more expensive than self serve washes. The increase in price is due to the fact that they offer a much higher level of convenience and efficiency.

You can expect your wash type to have a minor impact on the final result, although it may have a significant influence on certain additional aspects such as your time, effort and money.

Do Tunnel Car Washes Scratch Paint?

This is a common myth about tunnels, but the answer is no - they will not scratch your paint!

As we discussed earlier, most tunnels use either soft cloths or touchless high-pressure water to deliver clean vehicles.

Both of these methods are gentle enough that they will not damage or scratch your vehicle in any way.

Washing your vehicle will help maintain it

In reality, frequent usage of a car wash may help to protect your paintwork and clear coat by removing grime and dirt that might harm the finish if left for an extended period.

Is Owning a Tunnel Car Wash a Good Business?

Now that we've answered some common questions about tunnel washes, you might be wondering if owning one is a good business decision.

The answer is yes - owning a tunnel car wash can be a very profitable business! There are a few reasons for this:

Low Maintenance Costs On New Builds

Tunnel components are built to last and typically require very little maintenance. This means you'll save money on repairs and replacements over time. Make sure you combine this with chemistry that doesn't use harsh acids to help prolong the life of your equipment.

It also means less down time as you won't have to close the wash for maintenance as often. This obviously leads to higher revenue.

High Demand

There is always a high demand for car washes, especially in busy cities. This means that you will always have potential customers.

Demand for car washes has increased in recent years as people are becoming more aware of the importance of maintaining their vehicles.

This is good news for those considering opening a tunnel car wash business!

Ability to Serve

Tunnels work so efficiently that you will be able to clean many more cars per hour!

Unlike in-bay automatic and self serve options, there is less likely be a line for customers to wait in. This can translate into a larger amount of sales and a high customer satisfaction rate.

What Are Some Downsides to Owning a Tunnel System Wash?

While there are many upsides to owning a tunnel car wash, there are also a few downsides that you should be aware of:

High Initial Investment

Tunnels can be quite expensive to set up. This is because they require specialized equipment and a lot of land.

If you're not prepared for the initial high costs, then owning a tunnel car wash might not be the right choice for you.

A good initial starting point for a simple tunnel could be around $400,000 plus the cost of the land. This can vary wildly up to several million dollars for larger tunnels.

Requires Specialized Training

Tunnels are very complex and require specialized training to operate.

This means that you will need to spend time and money on training yourself and your employees how to use the equipment correctly.

Make sure to check out the Turtle Wax Pro Learning Center to start your basic training!

Choosing Manufacturers like Turtle Wax Pro For Your Tunnel Wash

When it comes to establishing a tunnel car wash, there are several things to consider. But one of the more important choices is your manufacturers.

Your manufacturer will be the one giving you chemistry, among other services like training and carwash equipment. This will dictate the level of service you can provide.

Turtle Wax Pro is one of the leading providers in the professional car wash industry and has been supporting automatic car washes of all kinds, including tunnel systems for years.

We pride ourselves on having the most innovative and eco-friendly car wash chemicals in the industry. We offer a wide range of chemicals that aid car washes all over the world in achieving their goals.

Our soaps and other products are designed to work together to create the ultimate clean. Each product primes the next one by preparing the surface of the vehicle for the next product, resulting in the perfect wash.

Turtle Wax Pro is dedicated to helping your business achieve its goals, and deliver your customers the cleanest, driest, and shiniest cars.

That includes a full dedicated initial training session along with ongoing support for your car wash equipment.

We would be happy to discuss the details behind your tunnel, relating to everything from chemistry to equipment to marketing. If you're considering entering the wash industry, feel free to contact us anytime!

Before You Build An Express Wash

The car wash industry is adopting express tunnels as the next big thing. Customers love them for their speed and efficiency, and owners for the amount of traffic they can handle and revenue they can generate.

Tunnel car washing holds numerous benefits that other types of washes cannot compete with. If you're thinking of entering the car wash industry, a tunnel might be the best option for you!

Entering and competing in the wash industry can be difficult but tunnels can be very rewarding. With their increasing popularity, tunnels may even become the new industry standard.

One of the best ways to set yourself up for success is using a great supplier like Turtle Wax Pro. The science, and expertise we provide is a surefire approach to differentiate your wash from the competition.

If you have any questions about tunnels, we would be happy to answer them. Thanks for reading!

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Cleaning vehicles is the best way to maintain them and keep them looking like new. The best car wash soaps will remove dirt, grime, and other buildup without damaging the paint or clear coat.

Turtle Wax Pro has been a providing high quality chemistry for over 75 years. Our products achieve better results than the rest on the market while being formulated without any phosphates, hydrofluoric acid or ammonium bifluoride.

Turtle Wax Pro is just one option and many people will have their own opinion on the the top rated car wash soap. There is a never-ending amount of choices for car care products. Hopefully this list of criteria will help you reach a decision on the best car wash soap for you.

What is Car Wash Soap?

Car wash soap (or car shampoo) is a specially formulated detergent that is designed to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from your vehicle's surface.

It is important to use a car wash soap that is specifically designed for washing cars because regular household detergents can actually damage your car's paint and finish.

Sidebar: What is the Difference Between Soap and Detergent?

Soap and detergent are both cleaning products, but they are made from different materials and have different purposes.

Soap is made from natural materials like vegetable oils or animal fats. It is effective at cleaning dirt and grease, and it is biodegradable.

Detergent, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials and is designed to clean in more difficult water situations. It is also more effective at cleaning oily stains.

For the purposes of this article you may see us refer to our products colloquially (informally), as both soap and detergent, but Turtle Wax Pro products are formulated as detergents!

Why Do You Need Car Wash Soap?

Car washing may seem like a simple task but the details do matter. Using the right soap to clean vehicles is a basic but vital step in achieving great results.

Obviously, some sort of soap is necessary in order to properly clean a car. A well formulated soap will remove all of the dirt, road grime, dust, swirl marks and insect bits that have built up on a car's surface.

Additionally, car wash liquid is designed to be gentle on a vehicle's surface. It will not strip away wax or polish like some household detergents can.

Existing Contaminants Can Be Harmful To A Vehicle

Road grime, dirt and other contaminants can be very abrasive, and if not removed properly, can cause damage to your vehicle.

For example, if you live in an area with a lot of clay in the soil, that clay is fine enough that it can become embedded in your vehicle's paint and cause permanent damage.

Can you use Dish Soap to Wash your Car?

Let's just say the secret to achieving a spot free car wash is not using dish soap on vehicles.

Dish soap is not designed for vehicles, and can actually strip away the wax or protective coatings on your car. This will leave your car paint unprotected and susceptible to damage.

Dish soap is formulated to remove oil and grease from dishes, which is why it  is so effective at cutting through sealants. So while dish soap might get your car clean in the short term, it will actually cause more damage in the long run.

How to Use Car Wash Soap?

The process for a DIY car wash and a professional car wash are actually quite similar. The main difference is the amount of water and soap that is used.

Automated car washes will have machinery that will take care of the majority of steps that the DIY or self serve car washer would need to do by hand.

We recommend following the instructions listed on the product, but a general guide for the best car wash is as follows:

1. Start by rinsing your car with water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Apply the car wash soap to a wet sponge or cloth and wash your car in small sections, starting from the top and working your way down.
3. Rinse the soap off your car with water (ideally a pressure washer)
4. Dry it with a clean microfiber towel (or microfiber wash mitt) to ensure a streak free finish.

Dialling in the correct wash settings in a tunnel or in bay automatic.

The Turtle Wax Pro team has over 75 years of experience formulating car care products. Our amazing service team are passionate experts that are always on hand to offer advice and support.

We've got a lot of documentation and expertise around our products and cleaning cars. That means we're able to set up any wash to run at peak performance within a short period of time!

Hyper-Concentrates

At Turtle Wax Pro our detergents are all hyper-concentrated. This means that you need less detergent to achieve the same quality results when compared to other brands.

Investing in a High Quality Car Wash Soap

It is also important to discuss how car wash soaps can differ. In short, there are three main types of car wash soap:

• Budget soaps (Most of our competitors) that will get the job done (kinda) but might not be as gentle on your cars or equipment.
• Mid-grade soaps (Transchem's Autolux Line) that strike a balance between price and quality.
• Premium soaps (Turtle Wax Pro) that cost more but offer the best possible results.

When it comes to car care, you get what you pay for. Investing in a high quality commercial car wash soap will save you money in all the ways we've previously mentioned. It also offers the best results to make your customers keep coming back for more. Keep in mind it is possible to offer an affordable car wash even with premium soaps.

Choosing a Premium Manufacturer like Turtle Wax Pro

The amount of options for car wash soaps on the market today can be overwhelming. However, the importance of choosing a high quality car wash soap can not be overstated.

Turtle Wax Pro is a car wash chemical manufacturer that produces premium car wash soaps, shampoos, detergents, waxes, ceramics, drying agents, finishing products and other surface protection products.

We've been doing it for decades.

Our products are formulated with the latest car care technology to deliver outstanding results and our team of experts are always available to answer any questions you may have.

We're passionate about what we do and we want to help you get the most out of your car wash business. We know that our success is built on your success.

How does the Soap you Choose Affect your Car Wash Business?

The car care industry is a competitive one and choosing the right products can make or break your business.

If you're using lower quality car wash soaps, shampoos, and other products it will reflect in the quality of your car wash.

Your customers will notice this and it will ultimately hurt your bottom line.

Achieving the Perfect Wash

The goal for everyone in the car wash industry is to be able to provide consumers with the perfect wash. There are numerous aspects to consistently providing that level of service and your chemistry is the backbone.

To achieve the ultimate wash, you don't just need quality products. You also need those products to work together in harmony.

Turtle Wax Pro products are never formulated on their own and often go through months or years of testing alongside our existing products. This ensures that they will play nice with each other and provide you with the results that you expect.

How to choose the right soap?

There are a few things you'll want to keep in mind when choosing the proper car wash soap for you.

Frequency of Washing

The ideal frequency for the best car wash is about once per week.

This ensures that the customer's car is getting cleaned on a regular basis and the finishing products are working properly to protect and maintain the paint.

Turtle Wax Pro products are formulated with this frequency in mind.

Without getting too heavily into the science, washing a car regularly will actually make the car easier to clean and shinier with each additional wash.*

The Environment

If being green is important to you then you'll want to look for a commercial car wash detergent that is biodegradable and gentle on the environment.

These soaps are just as effective at cleaning your car but won't have a negative impact on the planet.

Turtle Wax Pro is proud to say that all of our products are formulated with the environment in mind. The majority of our North American product lineup is Ecologo Certified. A certification that we drafted with regulators for high levels of environmental consciousness.

Water Quality

Water quality will differ based on your location. If you're using city water then it's likely that the water is already pretty hard.

This means that it has a higher concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. If you live in an area with softer water, then you don't have to worry about this as much.

It's important to be mindful of what water you have and if you should make any changes to it before you decide to run your car wash business.

Most car wash soaps will not be as effective when used with hard water and will fail to produce the thick foam required for total surface coverage. There are some specially formulated soaps that are designed to work with hard water, but typically we recommend installing some type of water solution instead.

These options will remove or modify minerals from the water that cause it to be hard, and will leave you with water that's ideal for a spot free wash.

Will Car Wash Soap Damage My Clear Coat or Sealant?

The short answer is: no it won't. Since soap is meant to clean, you may think any finishing product (car wax or ceramic) that was previously applied may be compromised after a wash.

What do surface protectants do for vehicles?

Waxes and sealants are designed to form a barrier between the painted surface and the elements. They often protect against UV rays, water spots, bird droppings and road film that could potentially damage a car's surface.

So, does using soap affect the car's wax or sealant?

As long as you're using a quality detergent that is designed for use with protected surfaces, you will not damage the wax or sealant. In fact, regular car washing is actually beneficial for maintaining the longevity of these products.*

But if you use the wrong kind of soap, it is possible that it could remove that protective barrier.

Specialized Car Wash Soaps

You may have a specific need that an ordinary soap cannot supply. We'll go through the common different specialized soaps. As well as explaining when you might want to use them.

Wash and Wax Car Soap

As the name implies, these soaps are designed to both clean and protect your car in one step.

Wash and wax car soaps typically contain Carnauba wax, which is a natural form of protection for your car's paint. But the wax formula can differ depending on the product.

With a wash and wax product it is generally hard to achieve a streak free finish or avoid swirl marks due to it's application process.

• These are typically offered to DIY washing car owners who regularly wash their car in their driveway and protect their car's finish all at once
• You'll also sometimes find this type of product in a low end car detailing shop

Carnauba Wax

Pure carnauba is one of the hardest, most durable forms of protection you can put on your car. It's often used in products that are designed to protect the paint on boats and other vehicles that are exposed to harsh conditions.

So, if you're looking for a soap that will both clean and protect your car's paint but also be a low commitment method to achieving that wax protection, wash and wax soaps might be the right choice.

However, the wax protection wash and wax soaps provide is not as durable or long lasting as other surface protectants. Premium carnauba wax can last up to 12 months but will likely last much less time in wax soap combination product.

Hard Water Soaps

As we mentioned before, if you live in an area with hard water, you'll need to take that into consideration when operating your car wash.

Most auto soap will not be as effective when used with hard water. Hard water affects the quality of your chemistry and could be a major factor in producing lacklustre cleaning results.

A water softener or reverse osmosis system are recommended solutions for water hardness, but there are some special car wash soaps that are designed to work with hard water.

Hard water soaps are formulated to be slightly more acidic than other car wash soaps. This helps to break down the minerals in hard water that can cause streaking and spots on the car's paint job.

• Hard water soaps are formulated for people with less options or no options for dealing with hard water in their water supply

Wheel Cleaner

Iron stains can become apparent on vehicles, especially on car wheels. While regular car wash soaps can help to remove some of the brake dust and grime that builds up on wheels, they are not always effective at removing iron stains.

A wheel cleaner is a specialized product that is designed to remove these types of stains. Wheel cleaners typically contain an acid, which helps to break down the iron molecules that cause the staining.

Most wheel cleaners are safe to use on all types of wheels, but it is always best to read the product label to be sure.

Waterless Wash (or No Rinse Wash) Soaps

A waterless car wash soap is a quick and easy way to clean your car without having to do a rinse wash at the end. As the name suggests, you don't need water (or very little) to use these soaps.

Waterless washes are perfect for people who want to clean their car but don't have access to a hose or water source. Some waterless washes also come in a foaming formula, which makes them even easier to use.

A no rinse wash product is also a good option if you purposely want to avoid using water altogether. You simply spray the soap on your car and wipe it off with a microfiber towel/wash mitt.

• These are formulated more for the home user rather than a business but can be a convenient option to some car owners.

Why Does pH Level Matter?

pH is a scale that is used to measure how acidic or basic (not the white girl kind) a solution is. It is an important aspect to consider when looking at the proper car wash soap for your business.

The scale goes from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic, 14 being the most basic, and pH level of seven being neutral.

We will do a complete breakdown of how pH level affects cleaning in a future blog post but for now here is a rough breakdown:

Low pH

Low pH detergents or presoaks are effective at attacking inorganic material found on vehicle surfaces. This includes things like brake dust, road grime, salt and heavy dirt particles. A low pH car wash soap is typically considered to be in the range of 0-4.

High pH

High pH soaps are better at attacking organic material, like bugs, grease and tree sap. High pH chemicals are effective at breaking down proteins found in these organic materials. A high pH car wash soap is typically considered to be in the range of 11-14.

Neutral pH

There are also some soaps that have a neutral pH level (also known as pH balanced). A pH neutral formula can be used on all types of cars, regardless of how dirty they are.

pH balanced soaps won't be as effective at attacking either inorganic or organic materials, but they are a good option for people who want an all-purpose soap for the entire car.

Neutral pH soaps typically have a pH level of around five to eight.

Which pH level should you pick?

Picking the best car wash soap by pH level depends entirely on your wash setup, location, water quality, and what type of dirt/grime you are trying to remove.

For the ultimate wash it will be best to use both a low pH and high pH soap in your wash process. This will ensure that all types of dirt and grime are removed from the vehicle.

In most situations it's best to start with the high pH cleaners and work towards creating a low pH environment to help the finishing products adhere to the vehicle's surface.

We recommend getting in touch with a car wash chemical supplier like Turtle Wax Pro to see what kind setup is right for you.

Hyper-Concentrated Car Wash Soap

Hyper-concentrated car wash soap is the future of the car wash industry.

It involves the chemicals being in heavily concentrated form (very little water content) and the end-user (car washes) diluting the concentration to the correct ratio.

Hyper-concentrated chemistry ensures:

• Lower shipping costs as more product will take up less space
• Reduced environmental impact by using less packaging and plastic
• Easier to physically move and dispense product
• Allows business to stock up on more product as it will take up less room

This ensures every ounce of a product applied to a vehicle is cleaning efficiently with less water, while producing even better results.

We highly recommend you look at a company that uses hyper-concentration for its chemistry for all of these benefits.

The Best Car Wash Soaps

The best car wash soap is an opinionated topic. We at Turtle Wax Pro truly believe we offer the best car wash soap on the market.

• Our detergents are available in a variety of pH levels to help you overcome challenging cleaning conditions.
• High-lubricity detergents produce a rich, dense foam that gently deep-cleans for scratch free cleaning.
• We have products with multiple scent options and offer SKUs that are effective in friction, touchless and self-serve (pressure washer) car wash scenarios.

The truly amazing part of our soap options is that:

• They are all designed to work perfectly with any of our other offerings to ensure you're creating the cleanest, shiniest and driest cars possible.

To Summarize

The significance that soap holds to a car wash cannot be overstated. It is essential for keeping vehicles not only clean and shiny but also for maintaining the vehicle's finish.

The car wash formula you choose will depend on the kind of car wash you have, as well as what you want to include in your wash process.

That's right, the soap included in that car wash kit might not the right choice for you.

The process of choosing the best car wash products can be tricky but we are here to help.

Contact us today to learn more about our top car wash soaps and how to choose the right chemistry for your business.

*Finishing products like waxes and ceramics create a hydrophobic barrier on the car's finish. This protective coating helps repel water and dirt, making it harder for contaminants to reach and stick to the surface of a vehicle. This makes them continually easier to remove after each wash.

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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.

Here at Turtle Wax Pro, we understand the difficulty in succeeding within the car wash industry, and especially in trying to stand out in the market.

The car wash space has many substitutes available to consumers, ranging from self serve to full automated washes. This creates the need for your wash to stand out in the eye of consumers.

Advertising can be a great way to increase business as your potential audience can be attracted and enticed towards your car wash over another!

By targeting consumers with specific and different forms of ads, businesses can attract new customers and grow their business in ways they could not done before.

Advertisements are not only for gaining new customers, they can be essential for building general brand awareness and improving loyalty for your existing users.

In this article, we'll be walking you through why advertising is important, how you can use advertising to strengthen your business, and how you can start creating impactful advertisements.

The Car Wash market is a multi-billion dollar industry.

There are over 25,000 car washes in the United States alone. The industry employs over 150,000 people and generates over $9 billion in annual revenue.

Even now, growth is still occurring at a rapid pace. In fact, the industry is expected to grow by 3% every year.

This growth is driven by the rise in vehicle ownership, increase in per capita income, and the need for car owners to maintain their vehicles.

With the right car wash advertising strategy, businesses can tap into this growing market and improve their bottom line.

The Car Wash Market

Despite the large size of the market, the car wash industry is very fragmented.

The top 50 companies account for less than 20% of the total market share. This leaves a large opportunity for small and medium sized businesses to increase their market share.

There are many different types of car washes, from self-service to full-service. There are also a variety of different services that you can offer, from express wash to detailing.

No matter what type of car wash you have, there are plenty of things you can do to increase business and market share.

The Car Wash Industry is a Tough Market

If you run a car wash, you know that competition is fierce.

Many car washes are going out of business because they can’t keep up with the competition and provide quality services at reasonable prices.

So how can you make sure that your car wash stays competitive?

Advertising is a way to help ensure that your wash stays competitive and has a consistent flow of customers.

Advertising allows your car wash business to attract new customers, customers from competing businesses and may even stop current customers from going elsewhere. .

Unfortunately, many local businesses are going out of business because they haven’t been able to keep up with the competition as there likely are many car wash options to choose from in any given area.

Standing out is difficult, but is a must to attract customers.

Quality services and reasonable prices are important for success in owning a car wash.

If you want your car wash to be successful, you need to offer quality services at reasonable prices.

Unfortunately, many car washes are going out of business because they can’t keep up with the competition and provide quality services at reasonable prices.

In a competitive market like the car wash market, there are many substitutions present. That means for customers to choose your wash, you must provide a great wash at a great price.

Advertising a Car Wash

The first step to increasing business is to make sure that customers are aware of your car wash. Advertising can be a great way to do this.

There are many different ways to advertise and utilizing a mix of methods is the best way to ensure results.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

First, businesses should consider what type of ad would be most effective for reaching their market.

The type of car wash will dictate exactly what type of ad to use. For example, a self service car wash may have a different marketing strategy than a full service car wash.

Second, businesses should make sure that their ads are creative and attention-grabbing.

Attractive visuals, key words, free services (or discounted) will all be attention grabbing to your audience.

Finally, businesses should track the results of their car wash advertising campaigns to ensure that they are effective.

Trial and error is sometimes the only way to succeed.

An important thing to remember when it comes to advertising car washes is that not all methods will work for every business. If you want more customers, it is important to experiment with different types of ads and see what works best for your company.

Car Wash Marketing Ideas

There are a variety of different ways to advertise your car wash.

You can use print ads, radio spots, social media campaigns, and outdoor signage, just to name a few.

By using a variety of car wash marketing techniques, you can reach a wider audience and bring in more customers who will appreciate the convenience and quality of your car wash service.

Print Ads

One way to advertise your car wash is through print ads. You can place ads in newspapers, magazines, or even direct mailers. Make sure to include your car wash’s name, address, and phone number so customers can easily find you.

Distributing flyers in the local area is also a great way to promote your car wash.

You can also include a coupon or special offer in your print ad to entice new business to try out your services. For example, you could offer a discount for first-time customers or a free car wash with the purchase of a detailing package.

Radio Spots

Another way to reach customers is through radio spots. You can buy airtime on local radio stations and create ads that will play during drive time.

Like print ads, make sure to include your car wash’s name, address, and phone number in your radio spot so customers can easily find you. You can also include a sales promotion within it, to cause more listeners to act.

Social Media Campaigns

In today’s world, social media is a powerful marketing tool. You can use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to reach customers. Other social media sites such as LinkedIn and TikTok could prove to be useful car wash marketing tools as well.

Social media accounts are crucial for car washes because they provide a way to connect with customers and promote deals or discounts.

When creating social media posts, be sure to use attractive visuals and persuasive copy. You want to grab people’s attention and make them want to learn more about your car wash.

Make sure to include a call-to-action in your posts, such as “Visit our website to learn more” or showcasing particular services that customers will love to have done to their vehicles.

Outdoor Signage

Another way to reach potential customers is through outdoor signage. You can place banners, signs, and flags around your car wash to grab people’s attention.

Make sure your signage is visible and legible from a distance. You want people to be able to see it and read it easily so they know what your business is and what services you offer.

You can also use outdoor signage to promote special services such as your for top of the line package.

Many companies (including Turtle Wax Pro) have outdoor signages that are very appealing to the eye and showcase a premium nature to them, which cause customers to try them out.

By using a variety of advertising techniques, you can reach a wider audience and bring in more customers to your car wash which will aid in succeeding even in the most competitive market.

What do you Write in a Car Wash Advertisement?

Here are a few ideas of what you can include in your car wash ad:

• Your business name
• Your logo
• A tagline or slogan
• Attractive visuals
• Information about your location
• Unique Aspects
• What services you offer
• Specials or promotions you are running
• A call to action note that entices consumers

Having a variety of these ideas can help your ad stand out from your competitors and help drive sales.

How to Create a Tagline or Slogan for a Car Wash?

Your tagline or slogan should be easily recognizable, so customers can remember it and associate it with your brand.

It should be reflective of what your company does or what you want your company to be known for. Whether it be affordable rates or the best cleaning job in town.

Also, your tagline or slogan should be reflective of your company’s values. (ex: environmentally focused)

What makes your Business Different?

The aspects that make your car wash different than the one down the road should be included in your advertisements.

You may be a local business, the only one using a specific brand of products, touchless as opposed to using brushes, an established brand, or vastly more experienced.

Small businesses have the opportunity to focus on community service or being more personal with their customers. Thus, many consumers choose to support small businesses over other options.

These are all examples of characteristics that make your car wash business stand out and are potential reasons why customers will choose you over another.

Unique Advertising Ideas for your Car Wash Business

The car wash marketing strategies mentioned before are significant in bringing awareness to your wash. But you might already have the basics covered, or maybe you want to try something different to set your business apart.

If that’s the case, here are some unique advertising ideas for your car wash business:

Sponsor a Local Sports Team or Another Popular Local Attraction

One way to get your car wash’s name out there is by sponsoring a local school sports team or another popular attraction in your area.

This could be anything from Little League to the local school. By having your name on their jerseys or arena, you’ll be getting great exposure to both new customers and existing customers.

Have a Grand Opening Event or Anniversary Event

Another way to advertise your business is by hosting a grand opening event (for a new business) or anniversary event. This is an exciting way to get new customers in the door and try out your car wash for the first time.

At special events, you can offer special pricing, freebies, free food, or other activities to bring in larger crowds. You can also use special events like these as an opportunity to introduce any new services or products you might be offering.

Get Involved in the Community

One way to endear your business to your target audience is by getting involved in the community. This could be anything from sponsoring a charity event to hosting a food drive.

By giving back to the community, you’ll not only be helping others, but you’ll also be gaining some good publicity for your business. This is a great way to build brand awareness and loyalty among possible customers and your customer base.

Offer Free Washes

Not many people can turn down something free. By giving away a free wash for their first wash, you encourage customers to try out your service.

This way they can compare your car wash to the one they typically use, and if your service is of good quality, consumers will continue for paid washes.

Have a Rewards/Loyalty Program

A rewards program is a great way to encourage current customers to continue using your wash. By offering a discount coupon or freebies after a certain number of visits, you’ll be sure to see customers coming back.

Having a loyalty program is also a great way to upsell customers on other services or products you might offer.

You can promote your loyalty club on your business website, on social media, or through in-store signage. This is a great way to increase your number of returning customers and build customer loyalty.

Thinking outside the box can separate you from the rest of the competition, and get your car wash business out in a way no one else can.

Working with an experienced company like Transchem and Turtle Wax Pro

Implementing a strong marketing strategy to ultimately increase business for you car wash can be difficult.

Transchem and Turtle Wax Pro are not only car wash suppliers, we are companies dedicated in helping your business succeed.

We understand that just owning a car wash is only a small fraction behind operating a car wash, marketing it is a must.

We have decades of experience helping car washes of all types and sizes, and thus, can provide a superior level of guidance that can help your car wash business gain market share and increase customers.

It's obvious how important advertising is to suceeding in the car wash market. By utilizing some of the advertising ideas mentioned, you can increase brand awareness to your car wash and bring in more traffic.

Advertising is an incredible powerful tool that can skyrocket the success of your business. If you believe that your car wash business could improve it's advertising, don't hesitate to get in contact with us! We at Transchem and Turtle Wax Pro can provide some guidance on how to seperate yourself from the rest of the market.

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!

Running a car wash business can be lucrative, but it's important to find the right car wash supplier in order to make your business successful.

There are many different suppliers out there, so it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you.

Turtle Wax Pro is a great option to help supply your car wash. We offer the highest quality chemistry on the market, have decades of experience of helping wash businesses succeed, and have strong healthy relationships with our customers.

These are all key factors to look for when searching for a supplier and we believe that Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem Group can be the best supplier for you.

If you're in the car wash business, then you know that finding the right supplier is essential. Let's go over some key considerations to look for when choosing a supplier.

To Succeed in the Car Wash Business, You Have to be Unique

The car wash industry is a competitive one, so it's important to find a car wash supplier that can give you an edge over your competition. One way to do this is by choosing a supplier that offers unique products or services.

Car washes with no unique selling proposition are very common. You must find things that separate you from other washes if you want to succeed. The right supplier can offer you competitive prices, quality supplies, equipment, support, advice, site signage, marketing help and more that can give you a leg up in business.

Here's What To Avoid In A Car Wash Supplier

1. Avoid suppliers that just need to make a sale and offer no support after your launch.
2. Be wary of a supplier who can't answer questions. This generally means they won't be helpful if any issues arise in the future.
3. Look out for suppliers without local or regional service teams. Depending on your customer volume you may get stuck in a long line waiting for service or repairs.
4. You should also be careful of suppliers who don't have a good reputation. If other car wash owners haven't heard of them or have had bad experiences, it's best to avoid doing business with them.

Looking for a Reputable Supplier

It's also important to choose a supplier that is reputable, has a long track record of industry wins and wants to be a true partner. Businesses succeed when they have long-term relationships with their suppliers. A reputable supplier will be able to more effectively provide you with the resources and support you need to grow your business.

Watch Testimonials

You can learn a lot about a supplier by reading online reviews, case studies and testimonials from other car wash business owners. Make sure to read both positive and negative reviews in order to get a well-rounded view of the supplier.

You should also take the time to speak with other wash owners who have used the supplier. They will be able to provide you with first-hand information about their customer experience.

"When I built our first car wash in 1991 I was looking for a chemical company that could provide knowledge, dependability, service, value and high quality safe products. The Turtle Wax Pro team and Transchem delivered and for over 30 years has been our chemical suppler of choice, they've never let us down. When it comes to a soap provider you can count on day in and day out I couldn't think of a better company than Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem." - Mike Black, Founder/Owner at Valet Car Washes 

Consider the Chemistry

The chemicals dictate the final wash product you can offer your customers. The goal of achieving the perfect wash can only be met with high quality chemistry that all works together.

When choosing a car wash supplier, you should consider the quality of the products that they offer. The last thing you want is your customers' cars to be damaged by poor car wash chemicals.

Which Type of Products Does Your Wash Want to Offer?

Every car wash has staple products like presoaks and detergents but car washes can really differentiate themselves by offering unique items like fragrances, ceramics, and tire dressings.

Think about which products in particular you want to offer your customer, that decision may direct you to a particular company that carries specific supplies.

There are so many products to choose from, we recommend getting in contact with a couple of car wash chemical manufacturers before deciding on any products.

Less Is More!

Some companies can have hundreds of SKUs but you'll need to narrow your decision down to between 5 and 15 core chemicals for your wash.

The Turtle Wax Pro lineup offers more than 40 highly diverse chemicals alongside other individual chemical solutions.

This allows us to stay competitive with other industry prices, stock more product, ship faster, provide more in-depth service and streamline our operation to help you clean more cars.

Consider the Car Wash Equipment

The car wash industry is always changing and car wash equipment is becoming more advanced. You'll want to make sure that the supplier you choose offers the latest and greatest in car wash equipment.

This could include pressure washers, car wash pumps or central vacuum systems for detailing services. This will ensure that your customers are getting the best possible car wash experience.

Having to buy new equipment is expensive and time consuming so it's important to get it right the first time.

Maintenance Matters

Maintenance solutions are also important to consider when choosing a supplier. Make sure your supplier has a good relationship with one or more local distributors in your area to service and repair your equipment on a regular basis.

Consider the Extras

It's also important to find a supplier who offers training on how to use the car wash equipment. This will ensure that your team is able to properly operate the car wash equipment and provide a great experience for your customers.

Turtle Wax Pro offers in-depth training on chemistry, installation, service, business operations and more to our partners (the distributors and operators we work with). This should create reliability for you and your employees when it comes to any problems that could arise.

What about...

Perhaps you want to own a truck wash as well? A truck wash will need different equipment than a standard car wash. How easy is it to receive repair parts? How detailed are the product manuals? How quick is installation?

These are all factors you will want to consider when evaluating the right supplier. It can be challenging to know what is the right equipment and we recommend contacting a supplier (like Turtle Wax Pro) before you decide on anything.

Consider your Customer

Last but not least, you should consider your ideal customer experience when choosing a supplier. What type of experience do you want to offer your customers?

Do you want to offer a luxury wash experience or a more basic wash experience? This will help you determine which car wash supplies, equipment and add-ons you'll need to purchase.

What Does a Premium Industry Supplier Offer Their Car Washes?

1. A wide range of chemistry, services, systems and car wash equipment.
2. Advice on how to best position your wash for success. This involves marketing, best use of the products, and a full dedicated hands-on training session with ongoing learning material.
3. Help you find ways on how to reduce costs and optimize your car wash to save time and produce more sales for your site.
4. Lastly, the relationship they maintain with their partners. A top supplier will offer car washes technical support, answer any questions they have, and keep an open dialogue to continuously improve the products and services they offer.

All of these aspects are what separates the industry leaders from the rest.

Choosing Turtle Wax Pro as Your Supplier

Turtle Wax Pro is one of the most trusted car care brands in the world with expertise to drive more sales and gain market share around the world.

We strive to be the best supplier possible to all of our partners, operators and distributors. We do this by offering the best chemistry on the market, high quality car wash equipment, and knowledge from our dedicated sales and service teams.

We Know It's Hard

Picking the right supplier can be a tough process but will prove to be very rewarding if done correctly. We hope that we cleared up some questions you had and have given you a bit of direction on how to choose a high quality partner.

If you have any questions about your car wash regarding anything from products to strategy, don't hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to discuss how you can find even more success within the car wash industry.

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.

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.