Frequently Asked Questions

A clay bar treatment removes bonded contaminants like tree sap, rail dust, and industrial fallout that washing alone can't eliminate. This process restores smoothness to your paint and prepares the surface for waxing or ceramic coating. At Paradise Detailing, we include clay bar treatment in our premium exterior packages to ensure your paint feels glass-smooth before protection is applied.

Paint correction uses machine polishing to physically remove swirl marks, light scratches, and oxidation from the clear coat, restoring clarity and gloss. A regular detail focuses on cleaning and protecting existing surfaces without altering the paint. Paradise Detailing offers both single-stage and multi-stage correction depending on your vehicle's condition and goals.

The best time is as soon as possible, ideally within the first few months while the paint is still in excellent condition. Ceramic coating bonds to the clear coat and provides long-term UV, chemical, and weather protection. At Paradise Detailing, we prep with paint correction to ensure a flawless finish before coating is applied.

Yes, coastal moisture combined with sun exposure and salt air can accelerate oxidation, dullness, and water spotting on unprotected paint. Regular exterior detailing and protective wax or ceramic coating help shield your clear coat from these conditions. Paradise Detailing designs every exterior service with San Rafael's climate in mind.

Hand washing uses high-lubricity soaps and soft microfiber mitts that glide over the paint, reducing the risk of swirl marks and scratches. Automatic tunnels often use stiff brushes that trap debris and damage the clear coat over time. Paradise Detailing uses only scratch-free methods to protect modern paint finishes.

The main factors are the size of the vehicle, the severity of swirl marks and scratches, and whether single-stage or multi-stage polishing is needed. Larger vehicles or heavily oxidized paint require more time and precision. Paradise Detailing inspects every vehicle under professional lighting to recommend the right correction level for your goals.

Use pH-neutral car soap, avoid automatic washes, and hand-dry with clean microfiber towels to preserve the hydrophobic layer. Regular maintenance washes every two to four weeks help the coating perform at its best. Paradise Detailing provides full aftercare instructions with every ceramic coating service to maximize longevity and gloss.

Yes, professional steam cleaning and thorough vacuuming effectively lift pet hair from carpets, seats, and crevices while reducing odors trapped in fabrics. Light stain treatment and surface wipe-down restore a fresh, clean cabin. At Paradise Detailing, Mason personally handles every interior to ensure consistent, high-quality results for busy Marin families.

Using the wrong products or too much pressure can cause staining, scratching, or haze on polished aluminum panels. Airstreams require aluminum-safe detergents, careful technique around rivets, and proper polishing to restore shine without damage. Paradise Detailing brings specialized tools and experience directly to your driveway or storage lot in Marin County.

Paradise Detailing arrives fully equipped with its own power, water, and professional tools, so no shop drop-off is needed. Mason performs all work on-site at your driveway or workplace, allowing you to go about your day while your vehicle is detailed. This service is available throughout San Rafael and surrounding Marin communities.

Professional-grade ceramic coatings typically last two to five years depending on maintenance, climate, and driving conditions. The coating bonds permanently to the clear coat and provides durable UV, chemical, and weather resistance. Paradise Detailing includes paint correction and prep wash with every coating to ensure maximum adhesion and longevity.

Regular detailing removes contaminants, protects your clear coat, and maintains gloss, helping your vehicle resist sun oxidation, tree sap, and freeway debris. It also extends the life of wax or ceramic protection and preserves resale value. Paradise Detailing recommends scheduling exterior service every few months for vehicles driven daily in San Rafael and along Highway 101.