What is a ceramic coating?
There are many different types of ceramic based coatings on the market. Many are Si02 or “Silica” glass-based coatings. Some are metal oxide or even graphene based now. However, whichever coating you choose to apply, or have a professional apply, is going to protect your vehicle’s paint, glass, metal, and plastic surfaces for years instead of months.
How can a ceramic coating protect your vehicle?
These ceramic coatings, when applied correctly, bond to the surface and create a very slick and glossy surface. This will aid in the cleaning and maintenance of your vehicle for years. Are these coatings bullet proof? In short, no. However, they do offer minor swirl resistance and it makes cleaning bird bombs and bug guts much easier.
How are ceramic coatings applied?
Your vehicles paint must be clean and free of any previous waxes and sealants. For the best optical results, the paint should at least be polished to reduce swirls, minor scratches, and other paint defects. Now depending on the polish you choose, you may need to wipe the paint down with a panel wipe that ensures no residue or oils are left on the paint after polishing. Some polishes act as primers and don’t need to be panel wiped. After the paint is cleaned, polished, and prepped the ceramic coating is applied in small 2x2ft sections. depending on the coating you may need to allow it to flash or have the carrier fluids evaporate away. Then the area can be lightly leveled with soft microfiber towels, which will help to spread the coating evenly and remove any residue that needs to be removed. This process is repeated over the entire vehicle. The exterior textured plastics are also coated, but this process is much more forgiving. The wheel faces are also coated, and if needed the wheels can be removed, cleaned, and coated inside and out and then reinstalled. The glass can also be coated in the same fashion.
How long does a ceramic coating last?
This depends on the ceramic coating. Some coatings are rated for 1, 2, 3-5, or even 9-10 years! The durability of any protection, including ceramic coatings, depends heavily on how it is maintained.
How do I maintain a ceramic coated vehicle?
This is the best part! It’s extremely easy to wash and dry your ceramic coated vehicle. Using a quality shampoo, soft wash mitts and microfiber drying towels, and a topper. A “topper” is a ceramic spray sealant that is applied onto all the surfaces after the wash. The topper can be applied onto the vehicle right after the rinse stage and used to aid in drying the vehicle. Tunnel washes and ANY car washes that use strong chemicals and brushes should NEVER be used. Doing so will greatly impact the durability and quality of your vehicles paint.
Who do I call to have a ceramic coating applied to my vehicle?
Please do your research! When choosing a Detailer feel free to ask questions about the process and coatings used. If they have a website, make sure to read all services and information provided. A quality detailer will treat the customer like family. We want to build lasting relationships without customers.