The 7-day cure rule
Wait 7 full days after coating application before the first wash. The coating is still cross-linking with your clear coat during this window — washing too early can interfere with the bond.
Your wash routine
- 1Pre-rinse thoroughly to loosen loose dirt
- 2Two-bucket method — one wash, one rinse, with a grit guard in the rinse bucket
- 3pH-neutral automotive shampoo — no dish soap, no degreasers
- 4Soft microfiber wash mitt — never sponges or brushes
- 5Dry with plush microfiber towels — don't air dry
What to avoid
- Automated brush car washes — the single biggest cause of coating degradation
- Dish soap or household cleaners — they strip the coating
- Drying in direct sun — water spots etch into the coating
- Parking under trees — sap and bird droppings should be removed promptly
Boost products
A coating-safe maintenance spray or silica boost product can refresh hydrophobic behavior between washes. Ask us which product matches your specific coating — using the wrong one can cause streaking.
Annual inspection
For warranty-backed coatings, keep your annual inspection current. We check coating performance, address any contamination, and confirm warranty compliance.