wash mats

E

Envious Eric

New member
hey where are you guys getting your wash mats from? I am looking at expanding and do not want to have to deal with EPA issues, so its time for a wash mat or two! Dont want to spend 1000's for one, but where/what are some cheaper alternatives



has to be something that dries easily, can be folded/rolled up easily, and be somewhat inexpensive while still being quality. I use strictly ONR, no pressure washing, so there is not going to be tons of run off on anything...
 
If you use ONR, wouldn't you be better off just putting some terry towels down to catch the drips? I don't think you'll have enough to recover in a mat. Anyway...here's a place to look Auto Detailing - Wash Mats, Water Containment



EDIT: I thought the whole idea of containment was to prevent runoff from going into storm drains...local laws may be stricter, but as long as whatever you have isn't making it to the storm drains or directly into a body of water, you should be in compliance with federal law.
 
the laws in CA vary, up here where i live there really isnt anything that states anything about containing runoff because our storm drains just go to big areas where the water just evaporates or to a water reclamation plants used to provide water for irrigation.

id check with local laws.
 
Hmmmm...for onr?.....how about a bunch of absorbers sewn together?



Maybe you could find a retailer that sells the same material in rolls or something.
 
Eric,

Sorry, didn't read the "Strictly ONR" user. I would have to agree with the others about towels or something along those lines. Don't think you would find yourself the subject of any governmental focus with a few drops of ONR hitting a towel or two.



If you are worried about any product hitting the ground...how about a basic blue tarp or a Slip n' Slide under the side of the car you're working??



Drew
 
nope, havent really looked into it too much as my future expansion plans arent going to happen for a couple months...need to get some stuff printed up, train a couple people, etc...



But if anyone has any ideas for a mat, just in case the property owners/leasors have an issue, I can be as compliant as possible...
 
I'm gonna crack this wide-open for most of you guys.



Smartpond at Lowe's: 13' x 20' Pond Liner



I use that along with a regular $25 tarp and floaties(for a pool).



Sweep the area you're laying it on first. Lay down the tarp then lay the pond liner on top. Fold up about 2' of the liner and roll it back down on the floaties.



I can set it up by myself in a little less than 10 minutes. With two people it can be laid out in about 2 minutes.



My next step is to take the liner and create slots for the floaties to slip into. I will use a construction grade sealer that is also flexible.
 
This is the product to use, IMHO The Total Pros Store



It is also a great company to provide solutions in the Water $mart Eco Detailing model … for sure.



Good for you for those using a capture mat. To be compliant, you also need a reclamation system, a dirty water tank and best practices for proper disposal like at an RV place. You also need to dedicate time and energy to put out the system and put away the wet & dirty mat, etc, and take the time after a long hard day to dispose of waste water



Or … use a waterless model!



I spend a bunch of time at the State Water Control Board. They are currently reviewing the NPDES Permit, which seeks to eliminate discharge into the Storm Drain. They are very concerned with Non Point Source Pollution … that is what this industry creates when a “Detailerâ€� shows up with a bucket and hose and leave their contaminants on the ground.



I can tell you from personal experience, this industry behavior makes Cities and Regulators take a very dim view of our industry. I think it is under assault. I see many detailers think they are all that, yet the City thinks we are a bunch of knuckleheads, and a real problem.



Anyone who wants a view of things to come … check out this California City Mobile Car Wash Ordinance



You need to show up at City Hall and demonstrate how you wash a car, where you dispose of waste water … Buckets and Hoses … stay home … you are out of business, period, end of story in this City. Note the picture the City used to visually describe our industry … that’s what they think of you.



No tree hugger here! Just a good business decision!



-jim
 
Just joined today and already jumping on the eco debate. Wouldn't happen to be in Orange County????



Think the thread was asking what mat to purchase not to use ONR. Read the entire thread. He does, we all do!!!



Drew
ultimateshine said:
ONR dont worry about mat.
Click to expand...
 
Yep, pint of water, ONR, makes the World go around!!! I'm going to get rid of our trailers, toss the PW and wash evry car with ONR for $29.00.



Yeah!!!:cool:
 
Eric,

Hope you've found a ma that fits your needs.



Kinda off topic; For my new SuperDooperPrestoWash company, I'm having a hard time figuring how to properly clean and detal an engine compartment and the rest of the exterior with a pint of water.



Please provide your suggestions.
 
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