Prepare a workspace that supports repeatable work
A coating area should let the installer inspect paint and identify application residue. Manage dust, airborne polishing debris, water overspray, direct sun, and uncontrolled airflow according to the exact product instructions. Confirm that the space can meet the product’s stated temperature and humidity limits, and that the vehicle can remain in the required conditions after application.
Keep preparation tools and clean application materials separate. Label containers, store products as directed, track opened dates if required, and keep safety information accessible. Ventilation, gloves, eye protection, respiratory protection, and disposal requirements are defined by the product’s safety documentation and applicable workplace rules—not by a generic detailing checklist.
Use a consistent inspection-to-handoff workflow
Document the vehicle’s condition before work begins. Note repainted panels, existing chips, failed clearcoat, wraps, PPF, trim, and prior coatings or sealants that may affect compatibility. Use lighting and inspection tools to show the customer the condition without promising that every defect can safely be corrected.
Set correction expectations before polishing. A measured, test-area approach protects limited paint material and helps the shop quote the work accurately. A coating can make remaining defects more noticeable, so the owner should approve the realistic finish before the shop proceeds.
For each product, maintain a controlled work instruction based on its current label and technical sheet. Identify application area, environmental limits, flash or leveling cues, towel changes, cure conditions, and defect-remedy window. Keep revision dates with the instructions so staff do not rely on a remembered process from a different product.
Make intake and records part of the service
A clear intake process records the vehicle, owner’s goals, work scope, existing finish concerns, and any surfaces excluded from the coating. Explain the distinction between a maintenance-focused liquid coating and a physical film used for impact protection. If the customer expects chip prevention, discuss the limitation before taking payment.
The job file should retain the selected product, surfaces treated, preparation steps, date, and customer handoff instructions. Photographs help establish pre-existing condition and provide a service record; they should be used with the customer’s permission and stored according to the shop’s privacy practices. Never present a coating’s listed duration as a guaranteed service life without the exact written terms.
- Record the product and the surfaces included in the approved scope.
- Document pre-existing damage and the owner-approved correction target.
- Provide written cure, washing, and maintenance instructions for that product.
- Give the customer the complete warranty document when a warranty is represented.
Check quality before releasing the vehicle
Inspect each treated area from more than one angle and under suitable light. Look for missed edges, high spots, streaks, trapped debris, or signs of uneven leveling. The time and safe method for correcting an application defect depend on the product; follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not wait until pickup to find obvious residue.
Before release, confirm the vehicle has met the product’s stated initial-care conditions. Review any remaining defects with the customer, explain the difference between coating performance and paint condition, and provide the care sheet. Do not promise that a coated car can skip washing or that water behavior will remain identical for a fixed period.
Separate shop readiness from program membership
A professional relationship with a coating manufacturer depends on documented product access, current technical and safety files, supply terms, support, warranty handling, training expectations, and use of brand assets. Clarify each point in writing before publishing a claim that your shop is an authorized installer or that a manufacturer stands behind your workmanship.
DURO currently accepts installer applications. The public site does not publish acceptance criteria, training, directory placement, product-access terms, or program benefits. An application is an inquiry only; sending it does not guarantee approval, a listing, or a commercial relationship.