William Gareth Birdsall is the owner and manager of the luxury auto detailing shop Platinum Auto Spa in Vancouver. With his hands-on experience in automotive detailing, appliance installation, landscaping, and hospitality, Birdsall brings with him unique technical and service skills to the industry. His knowledge has turned Platinum Auto Spa into a trusted luxury automotive care provider, specializing in ceramic coatings, paint correction, waxing, and polishing.
Q: Ceramic coatings are a huge trend in luxury auto detailing. Why have they become so popular?
William Gareth Birdsall: The detailing industry has seen a transformation with ceramic coatings because they provide the kind of lasting protection that people want. Owners of luxury cars need their vehicles to look immaculate and they also need to protect their investment. Wax eventually wears off after a few months, but ceramic coatings actually bond to the paint and last for years. They protect against UV rays, oxidation, and light scratches. They create a hydrophobic surface that makes dirt and water run right off. They’re easy to maintain and they’ve become essential in the luxury automobile industry.
Q: What makes Platinum Auto Spa stand out in terms of ceramic coating application?
William Gareth Birdsall: It’s all about precision and craftsmanship. Ceramic coating application is an extremely time-consuming process that requires patience. If the surface isn’t prepped or the coating isn’t applied evenly, the result will be a long way from the standard of excellence we demand. At Platinum Auto Spa, we invest in continuous training for our staff, and we only use the best products available. We deliver flawless finishes that enhance the look and longevity of luxury vehicles.
Q: How has the increase in demand for ceramic coatings affected the luxury detailing market?
William Gareth Birdsall: Preservation is now a top priority when people bring their cars to us. Customers see ceramic coatings as a method to preserve the resale value, so they’re looking for more than just aesthetic improvements from detailing. There’s also been a move to more environmentally friendly detailing solutions. Because ceramic coatings require fewer washes and less harsh chemicals, they’ve become popular with people looking for sustainable options.
Q: What trends or technologies are coming in luxury detailing that have got you excited?
William Gareth Birdsall: Graphene coatings are one of the biggest new trends. They’re even more durable than ceramic and have better water repellency and scratch resistance. We’re also seeing the development of self-healing coatings, which use nanotechnology to fix minor imperfections when exposed to heat. It’ll be very interesting to track how these technologies will allow us to provide even more value for our clients.
Q: What should luxury car owners do before they invest in ceramic coatings for the first time?
William Gareth Birdsall: My best piece of advice is to invest in quality. Ceramic coating is not something you want to skimp on. A professional is needed to apply it properly, but the results are well worth it. Applying a coating poorly can be worse than not applying one at all, but a correctly applied coating can keep your car looking showroom-ready for years. It’s also important to properly maintain it by using the right cleaning products and getting occasional bodywork touch-ups. Ceramic coatings bring big benefits for your luxury vehicle over time with proper maintenance.
