As we saw on the M25 recently, when a large swathe of the road was closed for several hours thanks to foot-deep craters in the tarmac, potholes are a serious problem. Even the smaller ones you encounter on everyday journeys can cause damage to your wheels and tyres – and with the cold weather approaching these potholes are only going to increase in number. It’s not just potholes that can be problematic, however, even speedbumps can have the same effect!

These road features are a particular problem because they can cause dents and cracks. This is of especial concern to those with large alloys, as these require tyres with lower-profile sidewalls, which are more likely to sustain crack damage because there is less surface area and less flexibility to absorb impacts. Even the most careful drivers can be subject to the odd knock or bump, and so it’s important to constantly check your wheels and tyres.

The easiest way to check for cracks is to regularly check your tyre pressure. If the air in a tyre goes down faster than usual, this is usually a reliable indicator that you have a small crack or dent – even if you can’t see it with the naked eye. It’s obviously unwise to continue driving on this wheel, particularly because in these wet conditions a large amount of water could be seeping in through the crack, getting underneath the alloy’s protective layer and corroding what’s underneath.

The good news, however, is that you don’t need to buy new alloys if this problem occurs. Diamond Alloys have a high quality welding service that will have your alloys looking as good as new, not to mention performing like they did when you first got them. Our experts examine every inch of your alloys and wheels before repairing and balancing them, giving you a thorough alloy wheel service that usually takes less than 24 hours.

Want to know how the repair service works? We start by grinding out both sides of the crack to remove any contamination, then weld either side to ensure that the repair has maximum strength. Once this is completed, we grind down the weld so it’s flush with the rest of the alloy, ensuring that it doesn’t damage the inside of the tyre. If you’re concerned about aesthetics, we can also refurbish the entire alloy to have it sparkling like new.

If you’d like a quotation for repairing cracks you’ve spotted, or think there’s a problem and would like our experts to take a look, get in touch today.

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We’re constantly bringing you handy hints and tips about best practice in cleaning your wheels and alloys. We do know, however, how easy it is to cut corners when following advice – we’ve all done it – so we thought we’d bring you a guide to things you absolutely shouldn’t do! If you have any questions about our tips below, or want us to give your alloys a top-quality service before you commence your own cleaning regime, get in touch.

Cool your wheels before cleaning
Never clean your wheels when they’re warm. Not only will this hurt you, but you may end up damaging the wheels and alloys. Remember that brake pads take a lot of time to cool, so make sure you leave enough time between your drive and clean.

Avoid inappropriate substances
Never use household products to clean your wheels, as substances like washing up liquid can damage their surface. The same goes for acid-based cleaners and tyre shine products. If these are all you have available to you, don’t use them – it may save you time in the short term but you’ll spend more money and time in the long run repairing the damage they cause.

Refrain from steam cleaning
Steam cleaning can remove the protective coating in your alloys, and damage the surface of your wheels. If in doubt, don’t do it!

Every wheel deserves care
Don’t try to wash all your wheels at once – if you’re moving round all of them simulataneously you’re likely to leave a cleaning product on them for too long whilst you deal with the others, leading to damage and corrosion. Always wash the wheels one by one!

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As soon as November appeared the weather has turned, and we’re now besieged by cold and rain as well as those early dark nights! Not only does this mean you’ll do much more driving with the lights on, but it’s also a sign that your wheels are now much more exposed to damage. There are, however, easy ways to minimise potential problems and care for your alloys and tyres. As it’s a busy time of year, we’ve put our top types in an easy-to-remember list.

Clear away brake dust.  Brake dust is hugely corrosive, and will do significant damage to your rims if left alone. Created by the friction between brake discs and brake pads, this dust will cling stubbornly to your alloys unless you regularly clear it away. A regular cleaning regime is the best possible prevention of damage from brake dust – see our previous blogs for a step-by-step guide.

Liberally apply cleaning fluid. Cleaning fluid, even top-quality fluid, is many times cheaper than new alloys. Don’t be shy about using lots of cleaning fluid – your investment will save you money later on.

Every tool should be appropriate to the job.  It’s tempting to use an old towel or similar when you’re cleaning, but it’s worth investing in the proper tools for your cleaning regime. They’re not expensive, and having things like a microfibre wash mitt and proper cleaning fluid will make the task easier and more enjoyable.

Apply wax. Wheel wax will seal in the shine of your alloys – keeping them looking sharp all through the winter! It also means you can use a less intensive cleaning regime after application, saving you time and effort throughout the cold weather when you’d rather be inside.

Never be afraid to get expert help. We have a huge range of cleaning tips on our blog, alongside a high-quality repair and maintenance service that will have battered or unloved alloys looking as good as new.

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1.How long have you been working at Diamond Alloys?
I have been working here for 6 weeks now, and I’m enjoying every minute.

2. What do you do at Diamond Alloys?
I look after the general enquiries that come in daily, as well as looking after our trade customers, contacting new trade accounts to advise them about and encourage them to try our services.

3. What is a typical day at Diamond Alloys like?
It’s very busy. The phones don’t stop ringing and bookings are coming in and out constantly. The company has been working hard to establish and build a reputation of quality and exceptional service, so it is a great time to have joined to build on this.

4. What type of trade customers would benefit from using Diamond Alloys services and why?
Body shops, high end taxi and chauffeur companies, prestige and performance self-drive companies. We have recently introduced a donor wheel service for our trade customers who need their vehicles on the road at all times. In this way, our trade accounts won’t lose valuable revenue by keeping their fleet active.

5. How quickly do you turn around wheels, and why is this so important for trade?
Most of our wheels have a turnaround time of 48 hours, it is very important for trade that they don’t lose their business. Customers want things done as quickly as possible.

6. What do you love about working with trade accounts?
Building that relationships with them, so you always get to have that little banter before speaking about business.

7. What makes good customer service?
Always going that extra mile, so the customers will keep building awareness of our services.

8. What are the most common questions trade accounts ask?
The most common questions asked by trade is simply how long will the wheels take and when will your driver be with us. We offer a 48 hours turn around service for diamond cutting, standard finish and custom finish jobs. We know how important is for trade accounts to have their wheels done as quickly as possible so we also have a fast track service. I am in communication with the driver and workshop so am able to estimate delivery times for clients.

9. Which is the most popular service customers ask about?
Diamond Cut, which is what we are specialists in.

10. What extras can customers look for at Diamond Alloys that competitors don’t offer?
Other than our great service, we also offer secure parking, a premium valet service and tyre fitting with free balance.

11. How does it help to work closely with the technicians?
It helps a lot as we can always go to them with any questions we may have about wheels. I have learnt a lot since I’ve been here and this knowledge helps me talk to customers with confidence and ensures they get the finish they want.

12. What’s the workshop atmosphere like?
The workshop atmosphere is great, always up beat while insuring all work is getting done.

13. What motivates you to do a good job?
My Family.

14. Tell us about your life out of the office, what do you like doing in your spare time?
Outside Diamond Alloys, I like to play sports mainly football as well as watching. I’m also a DJ so that keeps me very busy on the weekends and some evenings.

15. If you won the lottery, what would you do?
Buy myself a pub!

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