Side-by-side comparison
Surface Decontamination vs Wheel and Tire Detailing
Real comparison from a working detail shop, not a generic SEO matrix. We do both — here's how each fits.
| Surface Decontamination | Wheel and Tire Detailing | |
|---|---|---|
| Short version | Iron, tar, sap, and overspray removal. Pulls bonded contamination the wash cannot. Required prep step before any paint correction or coating. | Deep clean of wheels (faces and barrels), tires, and undercarriage. Iron and brake dust removal. Tire dressing and optional wheel sealant. |
| Typical price | $89 – $249 | $49 – $199 |
| Duration | 90 minutes - 2 hours | 60-90 minutes |
| Recovery / lasts | None. Drive immediately after. | Drive immediately. |
| What's included |
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| Not the right call when | If your paint is already clean and recently waxed or sealed, you may not need decontamination — wipe a panel with your fingertip through a plastic bag, and if it feels smooth, the contamination is not bad enough to need this. | If your wheels are bare metal (polished aluminum, raw alloy), avoid acid-based cleaners which etch — stick with non-acidic. We use non-acidic by default. |
About Surface Decontamination
About Wheel and Tire Detailing
Not sure which fits? Tell us your situation.
Ceramic Pro Authorized Installer
Serving the Raleigh area
Mon-Sat 8am-7pm