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919-760-6420

Technologies in the paint protection film, ceramic coating, and window tint industries are advancing all the time — and opportunities to earn a living and create an exciting career only keep expanding. 

If you are a recent high school graduate (or just looking for a change), you may be wondering how to get started on the path to becoming a professional automotive detailer. Fortunately, reputable paint protection (PPF) and window tint installation companies are always on the lookout for hardworking, eager-to-learn trainees. Here’s how to get a foot in the door and learn the industry from the ground up. 

entry level window tinting careerHow to Become an Automotive Detailer

In any career field, seasoned professionals have to start by learning the fundamentals. 

All vehicles require proper cleaning and preparation prior to film and coating installation, and many future technicians begin their journey by learning how to thoroughly prep surfaces for tint and paint protection. Starting with the basics allows apprentices to learn about the chemicals used in installation and other tools of the trade under the guidance of master technicians. 

Once you have mastered an entry-level position and demonstrated a commitment to the profession, your employer will likely be more open to sponsoring your formal training at an outside installation certification facility. It’s also possible to finance your own certification if you have the funds and a few years to devote to training, but be aware that this is the more costly option.

It can take many hours of practice to become a certified installer and this education can be quite expensive, so previous on-the-job training can pay dividends at this stage of your career.  If you’re given the opportunity to learn from a seasoned installer and utilize their connections within the industry for top-of-the-line training,  you’ll establish a more direct and affordable path to certification.

Once you complete the training programs, you’ll need to work under a reputable installer to gain experience and improve your marketability as a professional. With patience, passion, and hard work, you can build your portfolio and establish yourself as a sought-after installation technician. 

What Makes a Good PPF or Window Tint Installer?automotive detailing trainee

As the name suggests, the automotive detailing industry is best suited for those with an eye for detail. A career as a technician may be great for you if you’re:

How Much Do Professional Automotive Detailers Make?

Pay for new automotive detailers-in-training is comparable to typical service industry entry-level wages. However, future technicians generally consider this stage of their career as an opportunity to access free education and potentially have their certification sponsored by their employer. 

As you grow in your field and apply your new skills, your compensation will increase. Properly certified, established professionals can expect an annual gross income between $70K to $100K depending on their location and the quality of their work.

Learn More About the PPF and Window Tint Industries

If you’re interested in automotive detailing, learning more about the industry can help you determine if this career is right for you. 

Ask working technicians about their experience in the field, and take advantage of online resources. XPEL expert Marco Cazorla, aka “The Film Trainer” produces a blog filled with insider information about the window tint industry from a professional’s perspective — dive in and get a more complete picture of a day in the life of an automotive detailer. 

Interested in an Automotive Detailing Career?

Are you passionate about the automotive industry? ATD would love to help you get started on your path as a PPF, ceramic coating, or window tint installer. 

Reach out to learn more about our current opportunities and requirements.

 

If you’ve pre-ordered your next new vehicle, you’re probably counting down the days until delivery. You may have already prepared the perfect spot in your garage, but did you know that you can make arrangements for paint protection installation while you wait? 

Here’s what you need to know about scheduling your PPF installation or ceramic coating so you can get your new ride on the road sooner. 

tesla blue paint protectionDon’t Wait to Find a Reputable PPF Installer.

The potentially months-long wait for delivery is agonizing enough — don’t extend it by waiting for your installer. 

Many drivers who receive their new vehicle are disappointed to learn that detailing shops are booked up for weeks or months. Unfortunately, these auto enthusiasts have to choose between garaging their vehicle until they can get PPF or ceramic installed or putting their pristine paint job at risk on the road. 

ATD is happy to offer pre-scheduled paint protection services that work around your delivery date. Book installation for your pre-order early, and you’ll be cruising with confidence within days of delivery. 

How Soon Can I Schedule Paint Protection?

As scheduled deliveries become more commonplace, purchasers often have about 4-8 weeks of notice before they receive their new automobile. Depending on demand and the manufacturer’s logistics, this wait can extend for months. 

Regardless of the projected lead time, drivers can schedule paint protection service as soon as they receive an estimated delivery window for their pre-ordered vehicle. 

Book the Top Tesla and and Mach-E Installer in Greater Raleigh-Durham

Choosing a reputable paint protection installer is critical — your results depend on it. Improperly applied PPF and ceramic can fail, peel, bubble, and give your vehicle a cloudy or streaky appearance. 

Drivers who don’t want to risk their investment seek out highly-rated professionals,  which means that these installation locations can book up for weeks in advance. Pre-scheduling your services will help you avoid long wait times after your vehicle is delivered. 

Is PPF Just for Teslas and Mach-Es? schedule tesla paint protection

Tesla and Mach-E pre-orders experienced a recent surge in popularity, but scheduled paint protection is a smart option for drivers who want to preserve the resale value of any new vehicle. 

Pre-book your PPF or ceramic coating while you wait on delivery from any manufacturer, including:

Don’t Miss Out on the Benefits of Paint Protection.

Whether you choose PPF, ceramic coating, or both, paint protection is key to preserving the luster of your paint job, keeping your new vehicle looking new, and reducing stress over everyday hazards. 

Safeguard your brand new automobile against grit, grime, and scratches as soon as you receive it so you can enjoy the ride with less worry. 

At ATD, we’re car people. Our specialists understand the relationship between automotive enthusiasts and their vehicles, so we know how much easier it is to enjoy the drive when your ride is protected from damage. 

If you’re debating the pros and cons of ceramic coating and paint protection film, here’s what you need to know about how these services shield your paint job from life’s most common road hazards. 

ppf or ceramic for red sports carWhat’s the Difference Between Ceramic Coating and PPF?

As the name suggests, paint protection film, or PPF, is a very thin sheet of flexible polymers that is applied to your vehicle’s outer surfaces. When properly installed, the film is crystal clear and virtually seamless. 

Ceramic coating, on the other hand, begins as a liquid. When this hydrophobic polymer is applied to your car’s surface, it bonds with the paint to form a shiny coating of nanoglass. 

Benefits of Ceramic Coating

One of the best features of ceramic is that it eliminates the need to wax your vehicle. The glossy outer coating blocks damaging UV rays and prevents dirt and debris from sticking to your paint. Drivers who invest in ceramic coating enjoy an eye-catching automobile that shines up easily with less scrubbing and elbow grease. 

Ceramic coating looks best when it is applied after a thorough paint correction to ensure that any scratches or swirl marks are buffed out of your car’s clear coat.

Benefits of Paint Protection Film

Want to put a barrier between your paint job and loose gravel, highway salt, and door dings? 

PPF covers your car’s exterior in a self-healing layer that absorbs these hazards and reforms a smooth surface. Any damage to the film dissolves seamlessly when you park your vehicle in the sun or wash it with warm water. 

Paint protection film can be installed on your entire vehicle, or on the areas most susceptible to damage, like the doors and bumpers. Drivers can expect properly applied PPF to last an average of 7-10 years. 

How PPF and Ceramic Coating Work Togetherpaint protection film and ceramic coating on blue car

Fortunately, drivers don’t have to choose between PPF and ceramic coating. These two services offer optimal benefits when used together. 

When ceramic is applied on top of PPF you’ll get maximum protection from:

Safeguard Your Vehicle’s Resale Value 

Whether or not you plan to sell your vehicle, a pristine paint job plays an important role in your car’s valuation. 

An up-front investment in paint protection can pay dividends throughout the life of your vehicle. Make an appointment at our convenient Garner facility to reduce the threat of common road hazards today so you can enjoy the ride. 

 

The range of options for paint protection film (PPF) and ceramic coatings can feel overwhelming. Auto enthusiasts who want to preserve the sleek look of their car view paint protection services as an investment – they understand that you tend to get what you pay for.  

At ATD, we recommend a quality-first approach to paint protection. Here are a few important considerations as you research ceramic coating and PPF brands. 

white car paint protection1. Quality PPF offers the most invisible protection.

No one wants the automotive equivalent of plastic slipcovers. Your efforts to safeguard your vehicle’s shine are all in vain if your PPF is cloudy, thick, or visible at the edges.

High-performance paint protection brands like XPEL are not only rated for their durability but their crystal-clear appearance when properly applied. Investing in ultra-thin film and choosing a reputable installer will allow you to repel rain and highway grit without interfering with your vehicle’s appearance. 

2. Each brand of paint protection has its own formulation.

Different brands of PPF and ceramic coating have proprietary chemical formulations. It’s important to invest in quality paint protection that is engineered to last, because you will need to commit to that brand’s entire line of products. 

Unscrupulous installers may try to reduce costs by mixing and matching premium PPF and bargain ceramic coating or aftercare products. Not only can this shorten the life of your paint protection, but it can also void your manufacturer’s warranty. Do your homework to make sure your detailing shop doesn’t cut corners. 

3. Reputable brands protect your warranty. red sports car paint protection

Speaking of warranties, a quality brand of PPF or ceramic coating should back its products with a guarantee. It’s important, however, to make sure you pay attention to its conditions. 

Using unapproved chemicals for installation or aftercare or using an unlicensed PPF installer can void your warranty’s protections and leave you liable if your paint protection fails. Don’t be afraid to ask your installer questions, such as:

4. High-quality paint protection brands are a sign of a high-quality detailing shop.

Well-qualified installers recognize that not all ceramic coating brands and PPF are created equal. Automotive detailing shops that stock premium paint protection products are more likely to be committed to a quality consumer experience and end result than those that are less discerning. 

When choosing an installer, make brands an important part of your research. Paint protection that is seamless, long-lasting, and protected by a manufacturer’s warranty will guarantee the best return on your investment in your vehicle. 

 

Whether you have just invested in a new vehicle or you’re interested in restoring an older one to its former glory, there are several services to choose from. 

If you’re debating between paint protection film, paint correction, and window tinting, you may be better off deciding not to choose just one. These services work together as a “trifecta” to protect your vehicle inside and out. Optimize your car’s resistance to road hazards, door dings, and UV rays to keep your paint job looking brilliant for many miles. 

auto paint protection trifecta bumpersPaint Protection Film (PPF)

Paint protection film, or PPF, acts as an invisible shield for your paint job. PPF is made of a thin, flexible polymer that is professionally applied to the areas of your vehicle that are vulnerable to damage, like the doors and bumpers. This “second skin” safeguards your paint job against everyday hazards like loose gravel, highway salt, minor scratches, and door dings. 

PPF is made of self-healing polymers, so any damage dissolves under warm water or the heat of the sun. An added bonus: PPF guards against hard water spots for glossy finish and easy cleaning. 

Paint Correction with Ceramic Coating

Paint correction is one of the best ways to make a dramatic difference in your car’s shine. Even the most meticulously cared-for vehicles will collect minor damage from highway grit and abrasive washing materials. Over time, these imperfections in the clear coat that covers your car’s paint job will cause “swirl marks” that give your finish a dull and hazy appearance. 

Paint correction buffs out minor scratches and scuffs, creating a perfectly even surface that reflects light brilliantly. 

Because paint correction is accomplished by removing a small amount of your car’s clear coat, it is important to reinforce your paint protection. Ceramic coatings create a water-resistant shield for your paint job. Not only does this coating repel blemishes and water spots, it also makes it easier to remove dirt and grime during washing. Reducing the amount of scrubbing it takes to clean your car’s surface is one of the best ways to preserve your paint.

Window Tint Film

Window tinting does more than keep your car cool and your valuables hidden in parking lots – it blocks the UV rays that can harm you and your vehicle. 

Glare from the sun can damage your skin and fade your car’s interior. If left unprotected, cloth, vinyl, and leather can become discolored and cracked over time. Window tinting alleviates the heat and radiation that often leads to expensive maintenance and repairs. 

Extending the life of your vehicle’s interior is an important, but often overlooked, part of preserving its resale value. 

What are the benefits of the automotive protection trifecta?

Extend the life of your paint and interior, protect your resale value, and enjoy your car to the max with our trio of automotive protection services. 

While each of these services helps keep your car beautiful and well-maintained, they’re even better together. A well-protected paint job is easy to clean, and gentler washing, in turn, preserves the life of the film that protects your car’s body and windows. 

Get bumper-to-bumper, inside-out protection from driving hazards and environmental damage. ATD’s protection trifecta maximizes the benefits of each service by promoting the overall condition of your vehicle. 

With good maintenance care, paint protection film (PPF) lasts 7-10 years.

Paint protection film is a fantastic way to put a barrier between your vehicle’s paint job and potential scratches, scrapes, and dings. Drivers who are considering investing in PPF expect their protective film to last a long time, and when properly installed and maintained, it certainly can. 

Here is what savvy automobile owners need to know before having PPF installed so they can get the most out of their protective film and keep their paint job looking showroom ready for many years. 

paint protection against weatherWhat is PPF and what does it do?

PPF is made of a super-thin, flexible polymer that forms a second skin on the surface of your vehicle when installed by a professional. This film can be applied to the areas of your vehicle that are most susceptible to damage or over the entire surface.

When properly applied, PPF acts as an invisible shield for your paint job, safeguarding it from hazards like highway salt, loose gravel, and hard water spots. It offers excellent rock chip protection, and can safeguard your paint from chipping in the event of a door ding. One of the best features of PPF is that the covering itself is self-healing.  Any damage to the surface of the film seamlessly dissolves when you wash your vehicle in warm water or expose it to sunlight. 

What are the benefits of PPF?

If you feel sick at the thought of a careless driver bumping your vehicle with their car door, PPF can offer you valuable peace of mind. Many auto enthusiasts find that they enjoy the experience of owning their vehicles more knowing that scratches and dings are no longer a constant threat.

Paint protection does more than help you hang onto that new-car feeling for as long as possible. PPF can increase the resale value of your vehicle by helping you keep it in like-new condition even as the miles tick by. 

What is the lifespan of PPF?

Speaking generally, properly cared-for PPF can be expected to last between 7-10 years. Given that car owners sell or trade in their vehicle every 8 years, on average, many clients who choose to install PPF enjoy its benefits with no issues for the life of their vehicle. 

The longevity of your PPF is heavily influenced by how you use your vehicle. Work trucks and track vehicles that spend a lot of time out in the elements or rough terrain are likely to require a PPF replacement sooner than is typical. On the other hand, a collector’s car that only leaves the garage for shows would probably only need to have its PPF replaced in the rare event of a transport accident.

For daily drivers, the most typical cause of a PPF reinstall is a traffic accident. Fortunately, this expense is often covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance. It’s a good idea to consult with your insurance provider about their policies regarding aftermarket and protection services before you invest in PPF. 

How to help PPF last longer

PPF is made to last, but there are a few steps you can take to help extend the life of your protective film (and ultimately, your paint job).

Practice good aftercare.How long does PPF last? Protected vehicle

How you care for your PPF in the days that follow the installation can determine its lifespan. 

Clean your vehicle the right way.

Once your PPF is fully cured, keep it looking pristine by following your installer’s guidelines for washing your vehicle. 

Consider investing in ceramic coating.

PPFs with a built-in ceramic coating come at a premium price, but they offer some additional protections. A ceramic coating helps your vehicle repel water, protecting the surface from blemishes and making dirt and grime easier to wipe away. Less scrubbing during washes can extend the life of your PPF.

The best PPF depends heavily on your driving habits and the purpose of your vehicle. Contact a reputable PPF installer for advice on how to protect your paint from life’s hazards so you can enjoy the ride. 

 

PPF Paint Protection Film Blog

Let ATD Detailing help you avoid these mistakes!

 

The car shopping and buying process can be overwhelming and time consuming for even the most seasoned car buyers. Most folks focus on the vehicle options, packages, warranty, and financing. While these are some of the most important things to consider when purchasing a new car, what about protecting the new car?

If protecting your investment is a goal or priority it really should be something you discuss with your local vehicle protection specialists BEFORE you sign for the purchase or agree to a purchase price. Here at ATD Detailing we often work with our clients before they order or purchase a new vehicle.

 

We schedule a consultation to discuss the vehicle our client is considering, we talk specifically about the make, model and color and how the client intends to use or store the vehicle. Then we discuss protection options and pricing here at ATD Detailing so the client leaves with a personalized estimate for the vehicle they are shopping for. They can use this information when negotiating purchase price to be sure the protection budget and the purchase price budget stay within the client’s comfort level.

This ensures once the client pulls off the lot with the new vehicle, they know what to expect for aftermarket protection cost and are not a victim of sticker shock or having to sacrifice protection due to budget restraints.

You should always consider protection and after market additions or modifications when deciding what your budget is for a new car. This way you can work with local experts in those fields and end up with all the options you desire and not exceed budget plans for the new vehicle.

Not having the aftermarket protection services scheduled ahead of taking delivery of a new car is another common mistake car buyers make. Working with a trusted automotive protection expert to schedule your service appointment as close to your anticipated delivery date or purchase date as possible is key, but this does take some preparation and planning. This ensures you are bringing them a vehicle that is truly in “new condition” keeping the prep cost low and avoiding rock chip damage or topcoat damage from poor washing techniques or exposure to harmful contaminants. Ideally, you would line up your service appointment within a week or two of taking delivery of a new vehicle. This will limit the exposure and drive time before dropping off for protection services to be performed.

Waiting until you have the new vehicle to do your research, price shopping and finding a company you trust to partner with for automotive protection services can lead to added costs and delayed scheduling with those qualified facilities. Most reputable paint protection specialists that focus on quality keep a booked schedule and have repeat clients they work with on a regular basis. They are usually booking appointments 6-8 weeks out leaving you exposed to rock chip damage or may result in additional prep costs because by the time you can get the vehicle in for service it is no longer in a “new condition” for the purpose of paint correction or film and coating application.

 

If you are currently considering the purchase of a new vehicle and want to explore the paint protection products and services here at ATD Detailing give us a call today to set up a consultation.

 

We are more than happy to have you visit our facility in person to learn more about what we can offer you and discuss the scheduling process if your goal is to protect the vehicle soon after purchase.

“A good plan is like a road map: it shows the final destination and usually the best way to get there.”

– H. Stanely Judd

If you need help creating a road map to achieve your automotive or marine protection goals email Abby or Bryan with ATD Detailing today to set up a consultation. We are your trusted paint protection specialist and have over 10 years’ experience in the industry. We look forward to serving you!

 

[email protected]

919-760-6420

https://atddetailingnc.com/contact-us/

 

 

Ceramic Coating, Drying your car right, PPF, Paint Protection

How to Dry Your Car Safely

Washing your car, truck, or SUV every few weeks is recommended – regardless of where you live. But how do you dry your car safely? Some people swear by blowing standing water off with air, others use a drying aid such as a ceramic boost spray, then using a regular towel. However, using the wrong type of towel or material can be just as harmful as leaving that dirt and debris on the car’s paint job.

When you spend thousands of dollars on a paint protection solution, you want to protect that investment – right? With that said, using the right washing materials and techniques is by far, the best way to reduce developing a water spot, scratching, and improving the look of your vehicle.

The video in the car detailing and maintenance series posted on the Ceramic Pro YouTube.com channel focuses on how to dry your vehicle correctly. Whether you have a Ceramic Pro 9H coating, KAVACA PPF or the vehicle is unprotected, using a super plush microfiber drying towel is the best solution.

So – take a few minutes to watch this video by Adam Cote, as he explains why it’s crucial to end your car maintenance washes with drying it safely.

Why Should a Car Should Be Washed Every Two Weeks?

Over time, debris starts to collect on top of the vehicle surface and can cause damage to the paint, windows, plastic trim and more. Even if you have the highest quality ceramic coating or paint protection film installed, contaminants like industrial fallout, animal toxins, or other stuff can start to break down the integrity of the protective layer.

To maintain the quality of your nano ceramic coating or PPF installation, hand washing your car every two weeks using the two-bucket method is strongly suggested. The final step in this – or any type of car wash, is drying.

There are several options for drying a vehicle – but only a few that are proven to reduce scratching or damage to the surface. Some drying techniques or materials might seem safe – or have been used in the past – but can create swirl marks or etching in the clear coat or other materials on the vehicle’s exterior.

 

The Myths About Drying with a Chamois

If you’re an old-school car guy like me, it’s quite possible you were raised on using a sheepskin chamois as your car drying towel of choice. For those who need a refresher, a “shammy” has two qualities that makes it good for absorbing water.

First, it’s got a lot of surface area of soaking up water. This is due to having a large nap – also the material of the chamois. Most modern chamois are made from sheepskin, but there are some that are synthetic. Either way – the material is a good soaker of water. The second attribute of chamois is the ability to release water or to ‘wring it out’.

The problem is chamois essentially spreads water across the surface, but also creates suction on the paint. This eliminates the cushion – which grabs any remaining dirt, dust, or debris and etches it on the surface. This is how most scratching on a vehicle during washes occurs.

 

Why is Using a Squeegee a Bad Idea?

The other common method of car drying (by so-called expert detailers) is using a squeegee. This is basically the same type of product you’d use to wipe off standing water from glass or a window. While it works great on hard glass – it’s basically a scratch waiting to happen on a coated, protective film, or waxed vehicle surface.

There are multiple types of squeegees used by some car enthusiasts – but they all replicate the same potential of damage as the synthetic chamois. It creates suction to remove the water – but will also spread those damaging particles remaining on the surface. By comparison, a microfiber cloth is designed to glide over the surface and scoop up liquid. While it’s assumed you’ve removed all the dirt and debris during the wash process, there are still tiny particles remaining.

 

The Super Plush High GSM Microfiber Drying Towel

In the image below, you can see how the design of microfiber helps to scoop and pick-up debris vs spreading it across the surface.

Most microfiber towels are designed for detailing tasks – like removing polishing or liquid wax/spray coatings. But drying towels are much different in design. The drying towel is typically a higher GSM – or grams per square meter. This means they are heavier and can absorb more liquids. Since water is extremely ‘heavy’ – using a microfiber towel that has a GSM above 800 is strongly recommended.

You can also use a microfiber waffle weave drying towel. However, the terry weave super-plush drying towels will give you an ultra-dry car much better than a natural chamois. Whatever you do – NEVER use paper towels to dry your car.

 

What About Blowing Air Off the Surface?

There is another safe way of drying a car after a wash – blowing off with air. However, there is a catch. The method you use for blow drying a vehicle is extremely important to consider. Some larger detailing shops have an in-house compressor that they’ll use to blow air from those small nooks and cranny’s – like on door jams and window seals.

The problem with using air compressors is the oil inside the lines that blow onto the vehicle surface. Even shops with filters in the air lines can still contain tiny particles of lubricants that can spread on the freshly cleaned surface.

If you’re going to dry with air, use an electric-powered leaf blower. This will help blow off standing water – and allow you to use a microfiber drying towel for the final wipe down.

Still Have Questions Or Wish to Learn More about ATD Detailing?

If you’re thinking about having a professional detailer such as, ATD Detailing, install Ceramic Pro 9H coatings to the inside or outside of your vehicle, or Paint Protection Film – click here to request a free estimate.