Patrice Andreu started Absolute Detail in March 1999 with one main goal in mind ? give value to the customer.
That philosophy has paid off in great word of mouth and many repeat customers.
“I give good value. People recognize that,” he said. “I have customers drive a half an hour, passing other detailers on the way, to get here.”
Consider these points from Andreu to keep cars in pristine condition:
Q How long does proper detailing take?
A Most vehicles we get are in good starting condition and it takes about four hours. It doesn?t matter how experienced you are or how fast you work, it takes time to cover every aspect of the vehicles.
Q Who are your customers?
A It?s a mix of people. I have my regulars who believe it?s important to keep vehicles well-protected. I get a few who are ready to sell their cars and want them spruced up. Once in a while, we have people who come in for nasty smells such as gasoline spilled inside.
Q What are some of the missteps you see people take as they clean their cars?
A The most basic is that people wash their cars using only one bucket of water. You can?t wash your wheels and then [use the same water] to wash the paint. It will scratch. Also, I see people who are too aggressive in cleaning.
Q How often should a car be detailed?
A There are many variables. Some people have them done every three months, other have them done once a year. You might have two cars, the exact same age and model ? one owner drives from the garage to the grocery store and back. Another commutes to D.C., smokes in the car and eats in the car. Those factors all make a difference.
Q What are some of the misconceptions you hear?
A People think they have clear-coat [finishes] so they don?t have to wax their cars often. The average thickness of a piece of paper is a 3,000th of an inch. If you combine primer, paint and clear coat, they are only a 5,000th of an inch. Waxing is very important. Contaminants can dull the finish. If you have that morning dew, during the day contaminants bake into the paint unless you have a good coat of wax.
More information
Absolute Detail
91 John St.
Westminster
410-259-5333
