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FORTIS FOAM
Processes

Detailing 

What automotive detailing involves and how professional chemistry supports the detailing workflow.

Detailing is the meticulous process of cleaning, restoring, and protecting a vehicle’s exterior and interior to a standard far beyond a regular car wash. Professional detailers use specialised tools, techniques, and chemicals to achieve showroom-quality results.

Exterior detailing stages:

  1. Pre-wash — active foam or snow foam to loosen and remove the bulk of organic dirt without touching the paint.
  2. Contact wash — hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo and microfibre mitt.
  3. Decontamination — iron fallout remover for brake dust, tar remover, and clay bar treatment.
  4. Paint correction — machine polishing to remove swirl marks and scratches.
  5. Protection — wax, sealant, or ceramic coating application.

Where car wash chemistry fits:

The pre-wash stage is critical in detailing — it removes the majority of contamination before any contact, reducing the risk of inflicting scratches. A high-quality active foam with a safe pH level is essential here. Fortis Foam ECO is popular among detailers for its gentle but effective formula.

Detailers also rely on precise dilution ratios and controlled contact time to get maximum cleaning without surface damage. For professionals choosing between wash methods, see our guide on types of car washes.