 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
What is detailing?
Detailing means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. To some it is a nice car wash and wax, to others it is polishing the
paint and metal, and to others still it is a time consuming process of preparing a car for a concours event. A common definition given is
that detailing is a systematic rejuvenation of surfaces of an automobile. To me, detailing is not only the rejuvenation of the surfaces but
focuses strongly on the preservation of the surfaces, whether it is the paint, chrome, metal, leather, plastic, composite, etc. How do we
not only bring each surface to the highest standard but ensure that it will remain that way for the life of the automobile?
What is paint restoration or paint enhancement?
While detailing (cleaning, conditioning, preserving) will beautify the existing paint often times this is not enough to get the maximum
amount of gloss and shine from the paint. Paint if fairly durable but tends to scratch easily. By precisely measuring the depth of the
damage, which is often less then a 1/10000th of an inch, we can exfoliate a small amount and restore the paint by making it perfectly
level and devoid of defects. This ‘fresh’ paint is then finely polished or jeweled over and over until microscopically level and reflects
maximum light. Detailing the paint will enhance the current appearance, while polishing the paint will enhance the appearance itself.
How long does detailing last?
The rejuvenation and cleansing of the surfaces lasts as long as the automobile is keep in that condition, so it is obviously dependent
on the conditions that automobile faces. However I am much more focused on how long the surfaces remain protected and preserved.
This is situation specific though I work with all of my clients to make sure we are one the same page and both doing our part to make
sure the automobile is well protected.
How long does the paint restoration or enhancement last?
I don’t use products that mask or glaze surface defects, but rather remove them. The results are permanent. However I have to add
that the improper washing and drying techniques will impart more scratching and damage to the paint. Wiping one contaminated or dirty
towel over the paint can quickly undo 20 hours or more of work in five minutes. I am adamant in the education of my clients or their
regular detailers that only the gentlest, highest standard techniques are used when washing the automobile.
I have heard that you offer your services world and state wide, what is the furthest you have traveled?
I have one client in South Africa and two clients in Canada. I have also done work for private collections and clients in Arizona,
California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, North Carolina and New York. Of course this list is growing.
Does Bella Macchina have a preferred product line? Many people swear buy certain waxes or polishes for example.
I prefer any product that allows me to take an automobile to its highest standard. Experience has taught me that each automobile is
unique and the same processes and products don’t always produce results that are to my standards. I use only the best products which
are often the most expensive, such as imported towels, polishes, soaps, and waxes. However I have always been one to hang my hat
on the results vs. the products used. If a client has a particular request we likely carry that product and would be happy to oblige.
Do new cars need to be detailed?
Most new automobiles would benefit greatly from a thorough and specific Bella Macchina detail. Not only from the aesthetic aspect but
the sooner we start preserving the surfaces the longer it will resist or fight aging. Unfortunately even the most expensive and exotic
automobiles would also benefit greatly from having the paint polished or enhanced as errant washing techniques at the factory and
dealership often scratch and mar the brand new paint. I have worked for on a lot of brand new automobiles that were sadly far from
their potential which is sad really.
Vehicles you have prepared for various concours events have won various awards. Are there any that stick out in your mind?
Automobiles I have prepared have won trophies at shows as large as Amelia Island or Pebble Beach, but truthfully those awards are
more about the correctness of the vehicle and its faithfulness rather then the detailing itself. Detailing and Paint Enhancement makes
the automobile more presentable to the judges. I am very proud anytime a vehicle I polish wins ‘Best Paint’ though as this truly is a
reflection on not only the quality of the job done with the paint itself but how glossy and perfect it is.
One Ferrari, a 1979 512 BB, does stick out particularly. The original, razor thin paint was in horrid condition and the owner had already
contacted several shops about having a quality repaint down as well as a minor restoration to fix some really worn areas. After about
sixty hours of caring for the car and fully restoring the original 30 year old paint, it went to a car show in Indianapolis where it won
‘People’s Choice; Best Original; and Best Paint’. This was a 30 year old Ferrari in rough shape and four 1/10th the cost of a light
restoration we totally transformed this car into a concours winner. The best part of course is the beautiful paint job was still 100%
original and flawless, increasing the value of the classic Ferrari dramatically.
Do you travel with clients to shows to maintain their vehicles on the lawn?
Yes, if I am not scheduled for that day I try to make it to every show I can. Out of state shows obviously require compensation for time
and travel.
How did you start detailing?
My father actually owned a couple show cars and hot rods when I was younger and we used to spend hours together cleaning them,
polishing the wheels, conditioning the leather... It was an obsession that really started young. I think I was 14 or 15 the first time I picked
up a machine polisher and put it to the paint. I would later learn that his standards where much higher then any concours judges. He
was brutal!
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
My dad for his ability to find the one spot on a car that I had missed, no matter how small. Mike Phillips from Meguairs’ offered a lot of
great advice for me at the beginning of my career and provided a lot of inspiration. Ryan Blanchette, the master of paint correction, in
my opinion for staying up late hours perfecting our techniques. I could name a lot more, but of course Brian Brice from Finer Finish,
who has sacrificed so much time and effort in getting cars ready for clients and shows. The quality of his work is world-class and he is
the only detailer who can certify an automobile up to Bella Firma standard.
| An Interview with Todd Helme |
| All photographs used in this site are property of Todd Helme and his company. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. |
| Todd Helme's Bella Macchina: The Art of Detailing Frequently Asked Questions and Answers |