Car decontamination is the process of removing contaminants from the exterior surfaces of a vehicle. These contaminants can include things like dirt, dust, grime, bird droppings, tree sap, tar, and industrial fallout. Over time, these contaminants can build up on the surface of your car and create a rough texture that can damage the paintwork.
Car decontamination involves using specialised products and techniques to remove these contaminants and restore the smoothness of the paintwork. The goal of car decontamination is to remove as many contaminants as possible without causing damage to the paint.
The process of car decontamination typically involves several steps:
- Washing the car: The first step in car decontamination is to wash the car thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris. This can be done using the two bucket method.
- Iron remover: Iron remover is a specialised product that is used to remove iron particles from the surface of the car. These particles can come from brake dust, rail dust, and other sources. Iron remover is sprayed onto the surface of the car and left to dwell for a few minutes before being rinsed off.
- Tar remover: Tar remover is another specialized product that is used to remove tar and other sticky substances from the surface of the car. Tar remover is sprayed onto the affected area and left to dwell for a few minutes before being wiped away with a microfiber towel.
- Clay bar: If required, the next step is to use a clay bar to remove any remaining contaminants that are stuck to the paintwork. A clay bar is a putty-like substance that is rubbed over the surface of the car to pick up any contaminants that are stuck to the paint.
- Final rinse: Once all of the contaminants have been removed, the car is rinsed thoroughly with water to remove any remaining residue.
- Drying: The final step is to dry the car using a microfiber towel or a drying aid to prevent water spots from forming.
Car decontamination is an important part of car detailing, as it helps to keep the paintwork looking smooth and glossy. It is recommended that you decontaminate your car at least once a year, or more often if you live in an area with heavy industrial fallout or pollution.
