Let me dispel some myths regarding ceramic coating. You may have seen Ceramic Coating companies online or in marketing campaigns, but they gave you false information about Ceramic Coatings’ true nature and limitations.
Even if that may make some sense, let us get this out of the way right now. Even the greatest ceramic coating cannot render your car unbreakable. There is no “snake oil” or miracle elixir to protect your paint from every risk.
I will describe a ceramic coating in detail and clarify what it is not. To help you have realistic expectations of what a coating is and how it works, I will tell you the truth. I want to provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision regarding Ceramic Coatings.
1. My car will not need to be washed immediately
“Is this true? I will never have to clean my car again?” One of our clients asked calmly and seriously. I was not expecting that. Your car will still get dirty, but it will remain cleaner for longer. Ceramic coatings do not eliminate the need to wash your car; dirt will collect with time.
2. Are ceramic coatings durable?
If you conduct enough study on ceramic coatings, you will come across information that claims the coating will attach permanently to the transparent coat. You might think that the term “permanent”, which means it will not come off, is a safe way to describe this coating. This is simply not true.
Even if you wax a car and leave it in an air-conditioned garage for five years, then enclose it within a bubble before returning, the wax is still present on the surface. Technically, it could be said that the wax lasted five years. Environmental factors such as sun, dirt, salt, and washing the car continuously erode the protection of the vehicle. Nothing lasts forever. Even the paint beneath the ceramic coating will break down eventually. It is not permanent.
The warranties of the Ceramic Coating should be examined in greater detail. There are several loopholes and in the fine print, there are several items that will invalidate your warranty.
3. Is it simple to remove the ceramic coating?
The Ceramic Coating makes a thin yet strong connection with your clear coat. Many people assume that it will peel off the base coat like a clear coat would. If a ceramic coating fails, it will not peel, like wax does. You will notice that it wears out over time and will see water beads, as well as a decrease in dirt-shedding abilities. You do not have to worry that the Ceramic Coating will be compromised if a rock chip occurs (do not confuse this with protection from rock chips).
4. How easy is it to apply ceramic coating?
This is true to a certain extent. It is easy to apply Consumer-Grade Ceramic Coating because it is widely available. It is not easy, but it is possible. Even brand-new cars must have a surface free of imperfections. The condition of the paint is important for the process. It is important to apply Ceramic Coating following Paint Correction or Polishing, as it provides a semi-permanent layer on your vehicle’s painted surface. While you can make your decisions, I recommend that while the coating applicator is taking place, the vehicle be kept in pristine condition by washing, claying, and polishing.
You will lose your shine if you skip any of the steps in preparation. Incorrect application can prevent the product from lasting as long as advertised.
5. What are the differences between ceramic coatings?
It could be due to many factors. For example, the price at which the dealer is selling the product, experienced installers looking for new work, or simply shops trying to get a better profit margin by offering inferior quality work. What is your gut feeling telling you? Choose the cheapest one since they are all the same!
In the past ten years, I have seen “fly-by-night” stores install ceramic coating and then close after a few months. Their customers are left without a source to contact for warranty or repair inquiries. I have seen brand-new Ferraris and Tesla’s refinished due to poor preparation and polishing.
It happens every day.
Each Ceramic Coating is the same in protecting your vehicle. All ceramic coatings have a longer lifespan, are glossy, and are more resilient than waxes or sealants. Ceramic coatings are different in terms of gloss, durability, slickness, and thickness.
Ceramic coatings come in two types: professional ceramic coatings and consumer ceramic coatings. Pro Ceramic Coatings are the most durable and attractive. They are superglue-like and require multiple processes to cure. Professional ceramic coating companies also require that installers have a good record, are thoroughly screened, have received professional training, and have access to a clean room. They may even ask for insurance and infrared lamps.
Consumer-grade ceramic coatings are available online (Ceramic Pro Quartz Technik), but they are typically intended for one-level applications. Because they are easier to apply, you will not achieve the same level of durability and shine as professional-grade ceramic Coatings.
The effort required to prepare the paint accounts for much of the time and money spent on coatings. The installation of consumer-grade ceramic Coatings can start to two days. Professional Grade Ceramic Coatings will require between three and four days.
6. Ceramic coatings are resistant to scratches
This is the biggest myth about ceramic coatings. Many ceramic coating companies and detailers exaggerate the resistance of ceramic coatings to scratches. They even label them as scratch-proof or rock chip-resistant, which is not true.
If your car has a ceramic coating you won’t have to worry about scratches!
Ceramic Coating websites include deceptive information that says their product is scratch-resistant. This does not imply that the coating is scratch proof. Detailers and consumers often have different opinions about scratches.
I see clients every day who believe their paint is free of scratches. It is not always possible to tell the true condition of your car’s exterior paint without bright light or direct sunlight. The inspector may be in a garage or darkened area.
Swirl marks, or tiny scratches, are visible in bright sunlight. These tiny scratches will appear as a spider-web pattern and reduce the amount of light that is reflected off your car’s surface.
If you wash your car improperly with dirty towels and brushes, you may get dirt or salt on them, touch a dirty vehicle, or brush the paint while you are passing by. All these small scratches will show up in the vehicle’s paint. The car can be marked with swirl marks in many ways.
Ceramic coatings can scratch, even though they offer a lot of protection. One improper wash might leave minor scratches on your car’s surface. Regular maintenance and gentle washing are essential to maintaining the coating’s quality. Ceramic Coating offers an optional sacrificial coating that can be removed, reapplied, and protects the original paint beneath.