Better to get a full detail by a pro or do it yourself?

guest2299 · 02-08-08, 01:05

Specifically money-wise, which way would be cheaper?

weekendwarrior · 02-08-08, 01:08

That is a loaded question - and it ultimately depends on you. However, I noticed you have asked several question here over the past few days. Typically, for someone like yourself that is open to learning about detailing (you obviously are interested in it, because you came to this site), I would suggest you give it a try yourself.

The old saying "You can give a man food, or you can teach him to fish" applies here too.

Regarding money - A proper detail (autopian quality) would start around $250. You could get a PC or UDM, and a few other neccessary items for that price. The difference is that the $250 spent on supplies would provide you with several details.

BlueZero · 02-08-08, 01:09

Depends on what you want done.

You can pick up a bottle of wax and some microfibers pretty cheap.

Wash and wax? Swirl removal? Interior carpet extraction?

Holden_C04 · 02-08-08, 01:10

Realistically, it is cheaper in price to get a full detail done professionally, considering the cost of tools, the cost of the products, and the time necessary to develop the necessary skill. People who do it themselves do it because they love it, not to save money. Nonetheless, over the course of a few years, it will save money but only over the long run.

wannafbody · 02-08-08, 01:10

Learn to do it yourself. Invest in a PC, Ridgid 2611 or UDM, some pads and a couple good polishes such as menzerna and a good sealant and save your self some money in the long run and get better results.

integritydetail · 02-08-08, 01:14

If you have time to do it yourself it can be very fulfilling, if you have more money than time or will be frustrated by the learning process, hire a pro.

Legacy99 · 02-08-08, 01:18

Quote:

Originally Posted by Holden_C04

Realistically, it is cheaper in price to get a full detail done professionally, considering the cost of tools, the cost of the products, and the time necessary to develop the necessary skill. People who do it themselves do it because they love it, not to save money. Nonetheless, over the course of a few years, it will save money but only over the long run.

Are you kidding, I have enough products for my 2 cars to last a life time. For the money I spent, I could have my cars detailed every month and still be ahead. But, I love it. LOL!!

guest2299 · 02-08-08, 01:24

Yeah I pretty much need some serious stuff done like removing swirl marks, removing some dull spots, waxing, polishing and so on.

brwill2005 · 02-08-08, 01:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by Holden_C04

Realistically, it is cheaper in price to get a full detail done professionally, considering the cost of tools, the cost of the products, and the time necessary to develop the necessary skill. People who do it themselves do it because they love it, not to save money. Nonetheless, over the course of a few years, it will save money but only over the long run.

I agree with this comment. Not only is it the proper equipment (polisher, carpet extractor, pressure washer, vacuums, etc.), but also the skills needed to operate the equipment. If you find a quality detailer you will get much better results than you could realistically achieve. In addition how valuable is your spare time? Would it be better spend making money for yourself or spending time with your family? One of my economics professors in college said; Do what you do best, and pay for the rest.

guest2299 · 02-08-08, 01:29

I do have the time, it's just I am probably looking at spending over $400 in supplies if I do it myself + I have never done it before.

brwill2005 · 02-08-08, 01:48

The rest of my comment still applies even if you have the time. To get the proper equipment and supplies you are looking at much more than $400. It is possible to maybe do a mini-detail with that type of budget. Anyways, I am not trying to discourage you, but you asked.

aabablusaan · 02-08-08, 01:50

Quote:

Originally Posted by guest2299

I do have the time, it's just I am probably looking at spending over $400 in supplies if I do it myself + I have never done it before.

I am in the same boat. But I'm adhering to my own trial/error. Although I'm still considering on getting an Autopia member to do it for me to establish a baseline before I fully take over myself.

My interior carpet is ghastly, plus I have some swirls that can't be fixed by hand, so I hear what you're saying. At times, a pro is the way to go.