Detailing FAQ

Detailing and Ceramic Coating FAQ | Lewiston, Maine

Answers to the questions we hear most about detailing, paint correction and Opti-Coat ceramic coatings at our Lewiston shop. Still have a question? Contact us.

Heated indoor shopCertified Opti-Coat installerFinancing through Affirm and Sunbit

Booking and timing

How long do you need my vehicle?

Most interior and exterior details take one day. An Opti-Coat Pro install takes about 2 days, Pro Plus about 2.5 days, and the Full Monty 3 to 4 days. Extra paint correction adds time, and we confirm the schedule when you book.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes. Detailing bookings take a 50% deposit when you schedule, which holds your spot in the bay.

Why are prices different in winter?

We offer winter pricing October through March on interior, exterior and package services. See current prices on our detailing page.

Where is the work done?

Everything is done indoors in our heated bay at 1830 Lisbon St, Lewiston, so coatings can be installed and cured properly all year.

Ceramic coatings

Do coatings fix scratches?

No. A coating protects the paint as it is. Swirls and scratches have to be corrected first, which is why our Opti-Coat Pro, Pro Plus and Pro3 packages include a single stage polish, and more correction can be added.

What is the difference between spray wax, a sealant and a ceramic coating?

Spray wax is a quick gloss boost we use on basic washes. Optimum Ultra Ceramic Seal is a sealant that adds protection for a period of months. An Opti-Coat ceramic coating is a professional install that lasts for years and carries a manufacturer warranty on eligible vehicles.

How should I wash a coated vehicle?

Hand washing is best. Rinse off salt, sand and grit before touching the paint, wash top down with clean mitts, and dry with a clean microfiber towel instead of letting water air dry. If you need an automatic wash, use a touchless one and avoid brush washes. Skip polishes, compounds and harsh cleaners unless we recommend them.

How soon can I wash it after the install?

Cure time depends on the product and conditions, so follow the aftercare instructions we give you at pickup.

How do the warranties work?

Warranties are set by Opti-Coat and depend on the coating and the age of the vehicle. Full details for each tier are on our ceramic coatings page. Water spot etching from tap or sprinkler water is not covered, so dry the vehicle after washing.

My coating doesn't bead like it used to. Did it fail?

Not necessarily. Reduced beading is often just surface contamination. Bring it in and we will inspect it and recommend the right decontamination or maintenance service.

Paint correction

What is the difference between a one step and a two step correction?

A one step correction is a single machine polish that boosts gloss and removes lighter defects. A two step adds a heavier compounding stage before the polish for deeper defect removal.

How much does paint correction cost?

Correction is billed at $107 per hour with a free estimate. We inspect the paint and often test a small section first, so the estimate matches your goals. See our paint correction page.

Interiors and maintenance

Can you remove pet hair, stains and odors?

Yes. Heavy stains, pet hair, odor remediation and full extraction are billed at $75 per hour as add ons to any interior service.

How do maintenance plans work?

You start with a baseline In and Out Reset, then choose a monthly or quarterly plan with a 3 month minimum. Details and pricing are on our maintenance plans page.

Do you detail classic cars?

Yes. Lacquer, single stage and older paint all need a careful approach. See classic muscle and truck detailing.

Book a Detail

Still have a question?

Call us, send a message, or pick a time online and we will take it from there.