What are your packages and prices?

Although I offer various packages tailored to specific requirements, the cost is determined by the condition of your vehicle and the extent of work needed to meet your desired outcome. As each car is unique, I request a personal inspection of your vehicle to evaluate the paint/interior and discuss your expectations directly. When would be a convenient time for you to visit so that I can quickly assess and offer a fair price estimate? Book a free inspection here

What is paint correction, and does my car need one?

Gabriel Details specializes in paint correction, a meticulous process that restores the beauty of vehicle paintwork by eliminating imperfections. Our skilled technicians utilize specialized tools, compounds, and polishing pads to effectively remove scratches, swirl marks, and other flaws. Our comprehensive approach comprises inspection, preparation, correction, finishing, and protection, ensuring a thorough restoration. With our expertise and attention to detail, we strive to enhance the gloss and clarity of your vehicle's paint, providing remarkable results.

 

Following an inspection, we will have a clearer understanding of whether your car requires paint correction.

How much does paint correction cost?

The cost of paint correction can vary depending on several factors, including the size, make, and model of the vehicle, the extent of paint imperfections, the desired level of correction to meet customer expectations, and the expertise of the professional performing the service.

That's why, at Gabriel Details, we encourage customers to bring their vehicles for an in-person evaluation. This allows us to determine the necessary scope of work to meet your specific needs and expectations. A truck takes more time to correct than a sedan (most) with similar defects.

While numerous shops provide paint correction services, the quality of craftsmanship and execution can differ greatly. Therefore, it is important to make your selection wisely. 🙂

Why is paint protection film, also termed PPF?

Paint protection film, also known as PPF or "clear bra," is a specialized film made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) that serves as a shield for the painted surfaces of vehicles. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the car's paint from rock chips, scratches, swirls, and other forms of abrasion, as well as environmental factors. Interestingly, PPF was initially created by the US Army during the Vietnam War to protect helicopter rotor blades and other military transport components. This military-grade innovation eventually transitioned into the realm of consumer products. Given its effectiveness in shielding helicopter blades from airborne debris, you can be confident that PPF is more than capable of safeguarding your car against rock chips and abrasions.

See our PPF service page to learn more

Which is better, ceramic coating or PPF?

When considering protection options, paint protection film (PPF) generally offers superior physical defense against impacts, while ceramic coatings are known for their chemical and UV resistance, as well as their ability to create a glossy finish. Many vehicle owners opt to combine both solutions, applying PPF to high-impact areas or the entire vehicle and utilizing a ceramic coating on the remaining surfaces. This comprehensive approach maximizes the benefits of both products, ensuring extensive protection and a visually appealing result.

For those with ample funding, Gabriel Details highly recommends the combination of full car PPF and ceramic coating. This provides optimal protection for your vehicle, whether it's a daily driver or a cherished collectible stored in a garage. In addition, this approach simplifies maintenance and is considered the most effective method to preserve your vehicle's value over time..

Does my car need paint correction (polishing) before installing PPF?

It is not always required. The need for paint correction before installing Paint Protection Film (PPF) depends on the extent of defects present. When defects are minor to moderate, PPF can effectively mask and minimize their appearance. Correctly applied PPF can enhance the overall look of the vehicle by creating an impression that swirls and minor scratches are not there. However, if the car has deep scratches or significant fading with severe swirls and scratches, it is advisable to perform paint correction prior to installing PPF. This approach not only offers better value in the present but also helps preserve the vehicle's finish for future purposes like resale.

How long will the results last?

Clients often inquire about the longevity of my work, and it's a question that comes up frequently. To address this, let's break it down into two aspects: 

  1.  Swirl and scratch removal and 
  2. Oxidation caused by the sun's UV rays.

After performing paint correction, the swirl and scratch removal achieved is permanent. Unless the owner introduces new swirls or scratches through improper washing techniques or other contact, they should not reappear. Additionally, the fading that is addressed through polishing is also permanent.

However, once the owner picks up the vehicle, it will be exposed to the elements. To maintain the results, it is crucial to provide ongoing protection in the form of wax, sealant, ceramic, or graphene coatings or install a paint protection film (ppf). With proper maintenance and regular application of protective products, new fading can be avoided or the effect is greatly diminished.

In essence, the longevity of my work is determined by the owner's commitment to maintaining the vehicle's paintwork. If proper care and protection measures are consistently followed, the results can last for years. Here are a few factors that influence longevity”

  • the frequency of vehicle use and washing
  • the products used for washing
  • parking/storage conditions, and 
  • the climate your car is exposed to

These variables can impact preservation of the results and durability of the protection. While I cannot provide an exact timeframe, taking proper care of the vehicle by considering these factors will significantly contribute to its longevity.

At Gabriel Details we always install protection before a client picks up their vehicle. A high quality wax or  sealant is applied to all external painted surfaces as the last step in all of our paint correction packages. Upgrades to a ceramic coating or ppf are also available. 

Can we prepare my car for a car show?

Certainly, Gabriel Details is more than happy to help prepare your vehicle for car show events. However, to provide an accurate price, we will need to assess the condition of your car. On average, a “car show” detail typically takes Gabriel around 50 to 100 hours to complete. Whether you intend to win or are there to enjoy the event, we would be delighted to give your car the best chance to win !