When it comes to car care, ceramic coatings are considered the “next generation” of paint protection. Hand-applied, ceramic coatings are liquid polymers that create a semi-permanent bond with the car’s paint, making it easier to clean and protect against dirt. But is a ceramic coating worth it? Does ceramic coating treatment do everything it promises? We’ll tell you that in today’s article, so stay tuned for the rest!
If you love your car, you want it to always look as shiny and pristine as the day you got it. Do you remember that shiny, fresh out of the showroom look that drew stares on the street? We’re sure you do! That shiny look and the “new car smell” are some of the main reasons most people want to invest in a new car. But how do you make sure they last?
Unless you’re a total newcomer to the auto detailing market, you’ve probably already heard of professional-grade coatings. Claims about these types of paint sealants can be found all over the Internet, from blogs and websites of coating companies to forums and customer reviews. Some people praise ceramic coatings and have nothing bad to say about them, while others are more reserved.
So…what’s the truth?
When deciding whether to use ceramic paint coatings, let’s first look at what it is and how ceramic car coatings can help your vehicle stay smooth and shiny?
What is Ceramic Coating, And What Does it Do?
A professional coating is a liquid polymer applied to a vehicle’s exterior. The protective coating creates a semi-permanent bond with the paint, making it easier to clean and protecting it against dirt and other contaminants.
To understand what ceramic coatings are, it’s helpful to first consider the most common paint protectants.
Wax is organic and the most readily available, available in various forms, from a good old-fashioned paste to a quick and easy spray. For decades, “waxing” a car has been synonymous with making it look shiny and new. Unfortunately, wax is not long-lasting, so it must be applied several times a year. Some companies claim otherwise, but environmental contaminants and harsh soaps can easily destroy the thin wax barrier.
Sealants, however, are synthetic and last for several months. They are easy to apply but don’t give the same deep shine as a quality wax.
Both are superior to ceramic coating sprays. This liquid silica-based polymer is hand-applied and cures to form a protective layer that, with proper care, can remain effective for several years.
Why Does My Car Need a Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coatings have many benefits that make them worth the investment. One of the main advantages is that they help protect your car’s paint from damage and light scratches caused by chips, dirt, UV rays, and other environmental contaminants.
Good ceramic coating products will also make your car easier to clean. The semi-permanent bond created between the coating and the paint helps to repel water and other liquids, making it less likely that dirt will stick to the surface. This means you won’t have to wash your car as often after getting the ceramic coating service done.
Could I Apply a Ceramic Coating Myself?
Yes, you can apply a ceramic coating kit yourself, but we recommend that you have it done by a professional. Applying a ceramic coating is not as simple as spraying it on and wiping it off. There is a specific process that must be followed to ensure that the coating adheres properly to the paint and that it is applied evenly.
A professional-grade ceramic coating takes a long time to prepare and apply. It is usually a five-day process from start to finish (including time to remove old wax, polish and other imperfections). Sometimes, a professional ceramic coating installer will recommend a paint correction (which can further prolong the process).
Do I Still Need to Wash or Wax My Car if it Has Ceramic Coating?
Yes, you will still need to carry out regular maintenance, even if it has a ceramic coating. Automatic car washes use brushes to clean the vehicle. These brushes can damage the ceramic coating, eventually causing it to deteriorate. If you need a car wash, visit a touchless car wash.
The coating will make cleaning easier, but it won’t completely protect the paint from dirt and other contaminants. Do not use wax or other sealants on the ceramic coating, as they impair its functionality.
Is it Worth Getting a Ceramic Coating?
Whether or not a ceramic coating is worth the investment depends on several factors, such as how often you wash your car, where you live, and what type of climate you live in. If you live in an area with many environmental contaminants, or if you don’t wash your car often, a ceramic coating can help protect your paint and keep it micro scratches-free for longer.
How Do I Get a Ceramic Coating for My Car?
If you’re interested in getting a ceramic coating for your car, we recommend that you have it done by a professional. Applying a protective coating is not a simple process, and it’s important to ensure that it is done correctly to get the best results. If you need more info about ceramic coating cost in Canada check this article.
A professional ceramic coating installer will be able to recommend the best type of coating for your car and your needs. They will also be able to provide you with instructions on how to care for the coating so that it will last for as long as possible.
Whether or not you decide to use one is up to you. Still, if you do, we recommend that you do it by professional ceramic coating installers like Gleamworks Detailing. Gleamwork Detailing is a professional detailer and ceramic coating service provider in Vancouver. Gleamworks offer a variety of pro-grade coating packages to suit your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more about our ceramic coating installation or to schedule a free consultation.