Mike’s Car Wash

Car Wash Built for Opening Day

Car Wash construction was at the center of Tonn and Blank’s partnership with Mike’s Carwash. We delivered a new 7,682-square-foot, four-lane car wash in South Bend, Indiana. The project included full site development, utility installation, building construction, and setup of specialized car wash systems. The result was a turnkey facility ready to serve customers on day one.

Coordinating a Lot of Moving Parts

Car wash construction requires far more than a traditional building. The project involved extensive site preparation, drainage management, utility coordination, and integration of owner-selected specialty equipment. Our team managed to construct this facility within a condensed schedule, just under 7 months. If a car wash doesn’t open on time, it delays the expected return on investment. We knew staying on schedule was crucial.

Adding to the complexity, the owner selected several key equipment installers and specialty subcontractors. This required close coordination among trades to keep construction moving. It also ensured all systems aligned properly.

Keeping Every Piece Moving

Success started with detailed preconstruction planning and consistent communication with the owner and specialty vendors. Tonn and Blank coordinated site grading, drainage improvements, water, sewer, and electrical connections while managing the building schedule around equipment installation milestones.

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was coordinating construction around the custom car wash equipment. Electrical, roofing, and mechanical work all had to align with manufacturer requirements and installation schedules. By staying in close contact, the trades and equipment technicians worked together to avoided delays. They kept critical tasks on schedule.

Tonn and Blank’s self-perform team completed the concrete foundation footers and tunnel pit. They also finished the water reclamation pit, rough carpentry, and FRP panel installation in the tunnel. The team installed the interior building accessories. This provided greater control over quality, sequencing, and schedule performance throughout construction.

Ready for Customers

For Mike’s Carwash, the result was a fully operational car wash delivered on time. It reduced business delays and ensured a smooth path from construction to opening day. The project highlights Tonn and Blank Construction’s experience managing specialized facilities. Clear schedules are important. Regular communication with the owner helps ensure success.

One of the most memorable parts of the project was making sure the famous stuffed animals were placed in the car wash to greet customers (seriously, they buy them by the truckload…)!