What is Overspray + How to Remove It?

Posted March 11, 2020

Overspray occurs when any form of paint, varnish, or stain, is unintentionally sprayed on your vehicle. This can be due to improper use of paint, wind, or incorrect air pressure. Overspray can significantly decrease the quality of your vehicles paint job and decrease its overall value. Sometimes overspray is a result of chemical fallout.

Removal

There are a few different ways to remove overspray:

Clay Bar

The most common way to remove overspray is to use a clay bar. The clay bar can be used on the body of your vehicle as well as the windows. Clay bars can also be used to remove grease and dead insects. To remove overspray with a clay bar, first, you need to lubricate the surface. Use either auto body cleaner or soap and water to spray the area being cleaned. Next, in a back-and-forth- motion, use the clay bar to scrub off the overspray.

Razor Blade

This method removes overspray by scraping off the excess paint with a razor blade. While this can remove the paint, it could also potentially damage the vehicle’s paint job if done incorrectly.

Oil/ Solvent Soak

Removing overspray with oils or solvents is another method that works, but often works best when the paint is fresh. Petroleum or wax is applied to the area and allowed to soak, then wiped to remove damage caused by overspray.

Overspray can be unsightly and difficult to remove, depending on the substance and the size of the surface affected. To properly remove overspray, it is best to consult a professional car detailing service.

First Class Detailing specializes in the maintenance of luxury vehicles in Tampa Bay, Belleair, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Crystal Beach, and surrounding areas. Our certified technicians also service boats, RV’s, motorcycles, and trailers. If you want professional overspray removal services, check out our overspray removal page for rates!

Vinyl Wraps for Your Luxury Vehicle

Posted February 24, 2020

A vinyl wrap is a collection of decals that are placed over the body panels of a vehicle and can be used in a multitude of ways. They can be decorative, used to promote a business, or just serve as a new car color. There are a variety of design options that include graphics, matte finishes, glossy colors, custom artwork, and more.

Why wrap your vehicle

Vinyl wrap is a great way to change the look of your car without permanently changing your vehicle’s paint job. This can be good for people who lease their vehicles because it can be easily removed. Wraps can also help protect the vehicle’s paint job.

Vinyl wraps also have a faster turnaround time than a typical paint job. Painting your vehicle may take up to two weeks, depending on the specifics, while vinyl wraps may only take a few days.

Vinyl Wrap Maintenance

Maintenance can differ depending on the specific vehicle wrap. [Ex: matte or glossy finish]

No matter what kind of vinyl wrap your vehicle has, you should never put it through an automatic car wash. Automatic car washes have abrasive brushes that can scratch and cause damage to the wrap. It is always best to hand was wrapped vehicles with soft brushes and a detergent made specifically for vinyl wraps. Do not use rough scrubbing action or abrasive tools, as this will damage the film.

When your vehicle is not in use, it is best to keep it in a garage or under an awning to protect the wrap. Over time the sun’s rays can fade the wrap. You should also try to park in shaded areas, if possible.

As you drive your vehicle, dirt and debris can begin to accumulate on the exterior. Be sure to wipe down your vehicle periodically to remove this dirt. If left in the exposed sun, it can heat up the wrap and absorb the dirt.

How Long Does Vinyl Wrap Last?

When a vehicle is wrapped with a high-quality vinyl wrap and properly maintained, it can last up to 10 years. Before getting your car wrapped, it is best to get it professionally detailed to remove any imperfections. A wrap has to be adhered to a clean and dent- free car for optimal performance.

You can extend the lifetime of your vinyl wrap by adding a protective layer of ceramic coating. The ceramic coating helps to further seal the vinyl wrap and protects from scratches and other debris from the environment.

Here are some of the benefits of vinyl wrapping your vehicle:

Advertise your business– Whether you will be strictly using the vehicle for your business or just want to attach a business card to the side of your personal vehicle- a vinyl wrap can significantly increase public knowledge through this advertisement.
It’s not permanent– It can be simple to try a new color or look on your car for a few years and then get a completely new wrap or return to the pant job underneath the wrap. Because vinyl wrap can be removed, it is great for vehicles that may be resold. Specialized paint jobs have a lower resale value while a vinyl wrap can maintain the original paint job.

Paint protection– High-quality vinyl wrap can protect your vehicle’s paint job from scratches, sun exposure, and overspray. When removed, it does not leave any residue, which leaves your vehicle looking its best.
Lower Costs– A custom vinyl wrap is a high-quality solution that comes at a lower cost than custom paint jobs.

First Class Detailing specializes in the maintenance of luxury vehicles in Tampa Bay, Belleair, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Crystal Beach, and surrounding areas. Our certified technicians also service boats, RV’s, motorcycles, and trailers. If you are interested in vinyl wrap application for your vehicle, check out our Vinyl Wraps page for pricing!

Paint Protection Options for Your Motorcycle

Posted February 13, 2020

Owning a motorcycle is a source of pride for many people. Whether you ride a bike as your primary source of transportation or for leisure travel, it is essential to maintain this two-wheeled motor vehicle.

Paint Correction

With all the intricate details on a motorcycle, it is easy for the paint job to become damaged from dirt and debris. As you ride, you may notice dirt pics up and attaches to your motorcycle, which can cause blemishes in the paint. There are a few different options for paint correction, and it will depend on the type of bike and specific paint issues.

Here are a few service options for paint protection on your motorcycle :

Scratch/ Airbrushing Repair
Metal Polishing
Denibbing
Spot Repairs
Panel Correction

Ceramic Coating

There are many benefits to applying a ceramic coating to your luxury vehicle, but it is also beneficial to have this applied to your motorcycle.

Although motorcycles are a smaller form of transportation, it can be more challenging to maintain the exterior than a motor vehicle. This is because there are many small grooves and details that are specific to motorcycles only.

Because motorcycles are completely exposed to the elements, they may require increased maintenance, especially if it is in use on a regular basis.

Ceramic coating can help decrease maintenance time and wash time by helping repel dirt, debris, and potential water damage.

First Class Detailing specializes in the maintenance and of luxury vehicles, motorcycles, and RVs.

First Class Detailing ‘s ceramic coating services on motorcycles include full coverage on the following:

Chrome
Aluminum
Coat
Plastic
Vinyl
Windscreen

If you own a motorcycle, these services are crucial to the longevity of your vehicle.

As a trusted company for maintaining luxury vehicles, motorcycles, RVs, and boats, First Class Detailing is the premier choice for vehicle maintenance in Pearl Harbor, FL. Check out our ceramic coating page for rates on coating your motorcycle.

Why Your Vehicle Needs Ceramic Coating

Posted February 10, 2020

Owning a luxury vehicle means it requires maintenance to keep your car in its best condition. Investing in your car will help maintain the original quality and improve its resale value. Routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotation, and auto detailing are great ways to keep your car in good condition and can even add to the value of your vehicle.

A great way to maintain your vehicle is by protecting the paint job.

Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coating– This is a very thin liquid that acts as a semi-permanent ceramic coating on your car. This coating provides a deep glossy appearance, repels water, dirt, and debris. Once the coating is applied, it creates an inseparable bond with your car’s paintwork.

Benefits of Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coating can enhance the overall appearance of your car. The liquid provides a high-quality shine once applied and helps to conceal defects in the paint. High-quality ceramic paint coatings can protect your paint for up to five years before needing replacement.

Ceramic coatings can last several years with the proper maintenance. This can help you save money over time because you will end up spending less on maintaining the exterior and car washers.

Ceramic coating also helps repel other elements that can impact your vehicle’s appearance:

Water- Over time, water can penetrate your vehicle’s paint job and cause hard water stains. Ceramic coatings help to seal out water and stop it from damaging the paint
Chemicals- Bird droppings can be extremely damaging to automotive paint. The acid in bird poop can eat away at the paint leaving permanent stains that cannot be washed away.
UV Rays- The sun’s rays can oxidize automotive paint can cause it to fade.

Stays cleaner longer—Because the ceramic coat repels dirt and debris, your car will stay cleaner longer, which means you won’t have to wash it as often. This doesn’t mean that you don’t need to wash your car anymore, but you will notice a significant decrease in the amount of build-up dirt on your car after getting a ceramic coating.

How to Maintain Ceramic Coatings

With proper maintenance ceramic coatings can last up to 2 years, 5 years, 7 years or even 10 years.

Ceramic coatings do require maintenance to ensure that it remains in the best condition.

Your car should be washed at least every two weeks using soap that is made for cars that have ceramic coatings. If you are washing your car yourself, be sure to use a non-abrasive sponge.

Don’t leave your car in direct sunlight over prolonged periods of time.

UV sun rays can penetrate your vehicle’s paint job and easily ruin the finish.

Do not go to an automatic car wash. The automatic car washer can be detrimental to a vehicle’s paint job and for the maintenance of ceramic coating. The brushes most car washes use can be very abrasive with sharp plastic bristles that scratch.

Maintaining a luxury vehicle can be challenging to do on your own. Instead of tackling this by yourself, be sure to have your vehicle serviced by a professional detailing company.

First Class Detailing specializes in the maintenance of luxury vehicles in Tampa Bay, Belleair, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Crystal Beach, and surrounding areas.

Our certified technicians also service boats, RV’s, motorcycles, and trailers. If you want professional ceramic coating services, check out our ceramic coating page for rates!

What to Know Before Purchasing A Luxury Car?

Posted December 20, 2019

For many people, a luxury car symbolizes wealth, power and success. A luxury car reflects your social and economic status, plus it provides a cozy ride while navigating the roads. While a luxury car can have many benefits, there are many different things to consider before making such a costly purchase.

If you are in the market for a luxury car, here are a few tips to help your decision:

Pre-owned VS. Brand New

There are advantages and disadvantages to purchasing a used vehicle, but it is a little different for purchasing a luxury car. Luxury vehicles require more maintenance and require more expensive repairs. The decision to purchase a used luxury vehicle over a new one will be based on the buyer’s budget. Naturally, most people want to purchase a brand-new luxury vehicle but a used one may be more affordable upfront.

Pre-owned vehicles come with costlier repairs that may occur more frequently. Luxury vehicles have costlier parts and labor rates, so the buyer may end up spending much more money on the vehicle as time goes on.

Brand new luxury vehicles come with a costlier price tag but will be in perfect condition and allows the buyer to purchase the exact car they are looking for.

Once decided on a pre-owned or brand-new car, the buyer can consider these other buying factors:

Be sure of the car’s value. No matter if you are buying a new or used car it important to know what exactly the vehicle is worth. This is to ensure that you are receiving a fair deal and to check the vehicle’s residual value rating. This is an indicator of the vehicle’s quality and potential resale value.

Check the warranty– New cars come equipped with a full warranty which lasts for a set period of time. A used vehicle may not come with a warranty or it could be expiring soon. Before purchasing the vehicle, it is important to know what kind of warranty you will be guaranteed.

Vehicle maintenance– After purchasing any vehicle, you must be prepared to pay for any eventual repairs you will need. Because you are purchasing a high-quality vehicle you can assume that the repairs will be more costly than an average car. Before purchasing the vehicle, be sure that you can afford to maintain the vehicle’s condition. Without proper maintenance and regular service, your car will depreciate at a much faster rate.

Buying the Right Vehicle for You

You may have seen many different cars you’ve fallen in love with and want to own. Just because you like the way a car looks, or the sound of the engine doesn’t necessarily mean it is the right car for you.

A car, especially one you will be driving every day, has to fit with your lifestyle, needs, and personal preferences.

With this knowledge, you can decide if a luxury vehicle is right for you and then move forward with finding the exact make and model.

First Class Detailing specializes in the maintenance of luxury vehicles in Tampa Bay, Belleair, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Crystal Beach, and surrounding areas. Our certified technicians also service boats, RV’s, motorcycles, and trailers. Check out our detailing services for your new luxury vehicle!

What to Know Before Tinting Your Car Windows

Posted December 10, 2019

Window tint being applied to a dark colored vehicle.

There are many benefits to tinting the windows on your vehicle that benefit both the driver and improve the quality of the vehicle. Most new vehicles come equipped with a 15% visible light transmission factory tint on rear windows. The factory tint is not very significant and does not provide much protection for your car. Before tinting your window there are a few things you should know to ensure that it is done correctly.

Here are the advantages of tinting your vehicle’s windows:

Increased security

Nobody wants to be a target for thieves, but many people find crimes of opportunity. Simple things like leaving a purse, shopping bags, or other seemingly valuable items can be a source for potential burglaries. Tints can help reduce visibility into your car, thus preventing possible burglars.

Increased Visual Safety

Tinted windows and windshields help to reduce sun glare while driving. It can also protect against harmful UV rays from the sun. This can help improve driving safety and increase visibility for drivers. Tints also help reduce glares from other vehicles. Many drivers are starting to use blue LED headlights which can be extremely bright. Incoming headlights can be distracting and impair vision, especially at night. Window tints help to reduce the glare created by oncoming lights in traffic, helping you to drive safer.

Interior Protection

The sun’s rays can penetrate your windows and heat your seats which causes fading or cracks on the leather interior. This damage can significantly decrease your vehicle’s value and become expensive to repair. Tints help reduce the amount of sunlight coming into your car and protect your interior from sun damage.

Reduce Cooling Costs

Driving with the air conditioning on uses about 20% more fuel than without it. While tints do not stop your car from heating up during the warm seasons, it does significantly reduce the temperature in your car. By blocking out the sun, window tints can help save money by using less air conditioning in your vehicle.

With these benefits in mind, you may want to tint your vehicle’s windows as soon as possible. With a quick google search, you can find a variety of options and even how-to videos that teach you how to tint the windows yourself. While this may be effective, it is important to be aware of what tinting system will work for your car and be mindful of the tint laws within your state.

The tint laws refer to the visible light allowed through your car windows and the reflectiveness of your windows. These laws are strict, and violators can face a fine of up to 300 dollars.

Here are the laws for tints in Florida:

Tint darkness for sedans:

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.

Front Side windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Back Side windows: Must allow more than 15% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 15% of light in.

Tint darkness for SUV and vans:

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Back Side windows: Must allow more than 6% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 6% of light in.

To ensure that your tints are in full compliance with the laws, it is best to use a professional auto servicing company.

First Class Detailing specializes in the maintenance of luxury vehicles in Tampa Bay, Belleair, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Crystal Beach, and surrounding areas. Our certified technicians also service boats, RV’s, motorcycles, and trailers. If you want professional tinting services, check out our window tinting page for rates!