Preservation Detail | Ceramic Coating & Paint Correction by James Dawson

"James is one of those rare folks these days who truly takes pride in his work. I cannot thank him enough for his efforts and expect that even the most discerning customers will be truly satisfied with his services. This is someone that you can trust."

Gordon W, Potomac MD

2025 VW Golf R, Preservation Detail

"I've had my Porsche detailed before but nothing close to what James did. It looks better than the day I bought it."

Ruben S.

2017 Porsche 911, Preservation Detail + Wheel Removal

"I was incredibly nervous about trusting a stranger with my car. When I met him the morning of the detail, I got the sense that my car was in trustworthy hands. He did not disappoint; the car looks incredible!"

Marcus S.

2008 Ferrari F430, The Works

"Far and away the best detail I've seen, and most devoted professional I've met to date. I will be having him back and proudly recommending him to my friends."

Sanjay F., Great Falls, Va.

2003 Lamborghini Murcielago, 1 of 300. Preservation Detail

A Glimpse into Unmatched Craftsmanship

Ceramic coating, explained.

Discover how James Dawson's Preservation Detail turns your vehicle into a masterpiece.

Why Should You Ceramic Coat Your Car?

Ceramic coating creates a durable, hydrophobic layer that repels water, dirt, and contaminants, making maintenance effortless. It enhances gloss, depth, and clarity while protecting against UV rays, oxidation, and chemical stains. Unlike wax, it lasts for years, preserving your paint’s finish and reducing the need for frequent polishing or reapplication.

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Swirl marks and scratches on this Porsche 911.

Why I Polish Paint Before the Coating's Installed

Paint correction is the meticulous process of removing swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation to restore clarity and depth to your vehicle’s finish. Using precision polishing techniques, I refine the paintwork to eliminate defects without unnecessary removal of clear coat. Every car is different, so I tailor my approach to achieve a flawless, mirror-like shine while preserving the integrity of your paint.

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A detailer inspecting swirl mark removal on a car's paint.

The Importance of Hiring an Expert Technician

Ceramic coating is only as good as its application, and I don’t leave anything to chance. With my expertise in paint correction and precision application, I ensure every surface is flawlessly prepped for maximum durability and performance. Unlike rushed, mass-market coatings, my process guarantees a mirror-smooth finish that lasts—protecting your investment with unmatched craftsmanship.

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A Glimpse into Unmatched Craftsmanship

Experience the pinnacle of automotive artistry.

Discover how James Dawson's Preservation Detail turns your vehicle into a masterpiece.

Stage One. Every Crevice Cleaned in Preperation for Polishing.

By carefully removing each wheel, I access and meticulously detail areas often overlooked—cleaning, polishing, and protecting the brake calipers, wheel wells, and suspension components. This level of precision ensures your vehicle radiates perfection from every angle.

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Stage Two. Three Stage Paint Correction, Inch by Inch.

The process includes compounding, polishing, and a jeweling polish for unmatched gloss. Every vehicle is unique, so I tailor techniques and products to your car. I’m equipped to handle advanced tasks like texture-matching wet sanding, all of which we’ll cover during your consultation.

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A perfectly polished car roof and ceramic coating in Great Falls, Virginia.

Stage Three. Four Years of Ceramic Coating Protection.

This stage delivers long-lasting protection and enhanced gloss with a premium ceramic coating. Designed to shield your car’s finish for up to four years, it offers unmatched durability against the elements while making maintenance effortless. We’ll discuss during your consultation to ensure it’s perfectly suited to your vehicle.

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Stage Four. Interior Rejuvenation and Fortification.

This stage revitalizes and protects your car’s interior with meticulous cleaning and advanced coatings. From restoring surfaces to shielding against future wear, every detail is addressed to ensure lasting beauty and durability. We’ll tailor the process to your needs during your consultation.

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FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions here.

What do you need from me on install day?

Access to the vehicle, a workable space (ideally enclosed), and realistic expectations about time.

Can you coat over PPF or wrap?

Yes, depending on the film and condition. Coating can improve gloss and make cleaning easier, but film has different behaviors than paint. I’ll check it and recommend the correct product for the surface. If you plan on putting on PPF, it is advisable to put coating underneath.

When can I wash the car after the coating?

There’s a cure window. You’ll get a simple, non-confusing care plan: what to avoid in the first days, how to wash, and what products are safe. If you want maintenance help, that’s available too.

Is there a warranty? What does it actually mean?

Warranties vary and they’re not magic either. Most require proper maintenance and documentation. I’ll be clear about what’s covered, what’s not, and what you actually need to do to keep the coating performing.

How do you price it?

Pricing is based on vehicle size, paint condition, the level of correction required, and the coating system. If you’re comparing against $500–$900 “ceramic specials,” you’re not comparing the same service. Those are usually fast prep + fast install + fast failure.

What if my car is brand new—do I still need prep?

New cars are often not “perfect.” They can have transport marring, dealership wash damage, and random defects. Coating a brand-new car without inspecting and correcting what’s there is how people end up disappointed after spending real money.

Can you do this at my home?

Yes, assuming the environment is workable. If the garage is too tight, dusty, or poorly lit, I’ll tell you up front because it affects results. I’d rather do it right than “make it work” and hand you a compromised finish.

What’s included in your ceramic coating service?

At minimum: safe wash, chemical decon, clay as needed, paint inspection, prep wipe/solution, coating application, and a controlled cure plan. If correction is needed, that’s scoped based on what your paint actually looks like, not a one-size-fits-all “stage 1” promise.

What makes your ceramic coating different from other shops?

Most ceramic coatings are only as good as the prep and the installer. My whole angle is risk removal: proper wash/decon, paint assessment, measured correction where needed, and a controlled install so the coating bonds correctly and looks right. If you’re paying real money, you shouldn’t be gambling on whoever happens to be working that day.

Who actually works on my car?

Me. Not a random employee, not “the team,” not a handoff. If you’re the type of person who’s picky about mechanics/body shops touching your car, you’ll get why this matters.

Do I need paint correction before coating?

If the paint has swirls, hazing, or deeper defects, coating will lock that in. Coating adds gloss and protection, but it doesn’t magically erase imperfections. The right answer is “it depends,” and I’ll tell you honestly what’s worth doing so you’re not paying for perfection you can’t see or skipping prep you’ll regret.

How long does the install take?

Real installs aren’t “drop it off at 9, pick it up at 4.” Depending on condition and what level of correction you need, it’s typically a full day to multi-day process. If someone is promising a top-tier outcome in a few hours, they’re cutting steps somewhere.

What does ceramic coating actually protect against?

It helps with chemical resistance, easier washing, gloss retention, and minor marring resistance. It is not a force field. If you want rock-chip protection, that’s PPF territory. If you want “I never have to wash my car again,” that’s not a thing.

Will it prevent scratches and swirls?

It can reduce how easily light marring happens and it makes washing safer because dirt releases easier. But improper washing will still scratch paint. The coating is part of a system: install quality + wash method + maintenance.

the best Ceramic Coating in Washington, D.c.

Trusted by Collectors. Chosen by Perfectionists.

James Dawson applies ceramic coating with such precision, it unveils depth, clarity, and presence other shops only promise.

Flawless Ceramic Coating in Washington D.C.

The Final Piece in Your Quest for Perfection. Contact James to Discuss Your Needs.

MOST COATINGS FAIL — HERE’S WHY

Excellence Isn’t Found in the Coating—It’s in the Hands That Install It.

15,000+ Hours Detailing Expert

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A Glimpse into Unmatched Craftsmanship

Ceramic coating, explained.

Discover how James Dawson's Preservation Detail turns your vehicle into a masterpiece.

Trust begins with knowing who’s behind the work.

A Glimpse into Unmatched Craftsmanship

Experience the pinnacle of automotive artistry.

Discover how James Dawson's Preservation Detail turns your vehicle into a masterpiece.

The Detailer Trusted by Collectors

Insured and skilled to care for the world’s finest vehicles.

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Call James to experience a new level of car care.

FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions here.