You probably have heard how Ceramic Coating can make your car look new again and gives high gloss effect. Although the protection these coatings offers is unrivaled, they do have their downside.
I’m going to help you to look at the reality of Ceramic Coating and you can decide whether it’s for you or not.
What is Ceramic Coating:
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer which bonds in chemical level with the cars original paint and creates layer of protection becoming literally part of the surface.
Pros:
Protection from UV damage / oxidization/rust
If a vehicle is often exposed to the sun, its paint will begin to oxidize, resulting in dulled and faded paint. A layer of Ceramic Coating protects a vehicle’s paint from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and reducing the amount of oxidization.
Hydrophobic
Also known as a water repellent.
One of the best features of Ceramic Coating is that it is Hydrophobic which is another way of saying water repellent. When your car is Ceramic Coated, the hydrophobic effect of the coating will cause water to bead on the surface with most dirt or mud and when you wash your car, contaminants can be removed with less effort.
Easy to maintain
A car with ceramic coating is also easier to clean. The coated surface will remain smooth and won’t have an area for the dirt to stick on. Even if it does, a simple swipe with a clean cloth brings the car back to its shiny finish.
Enhance Gloss
A good ceramic coating enhances the reflection of your car’s paint and clear coat, adding to the depth and clarity of your paint.
Improves durability
Ceramic coatings work much harder at protecting the surface of your vehicle than an ordinary paint job. Some of these bonds are so durable, the coating needs to be machine buffed to be removed. Less durable coating, on the other hand, can be removed with a strong solvent. The ceramic coating forms a semi-permanent bond with a vehicle’s surface, resulting in a very durable layer that will not wash away under cleaning or rain but will stay for years. The long life of ceramic coating makes it highly cost-effective. In addition to all the above advantages, ceramic coating makes your car look so much better.
Cons:
Time Consuming
Ceramic coating application takes time. If you plan to do ceramic coating on your car, be ready to leave it at the detailing shop for at least three days. Also, if not done correctly or professionally, ceramic coating might look worse than the original paint finish of your car.
Price
All the above-mentioned advantages of ceramic coating come at a high price. Ceramic coatings must be applied by trained and certified professionals. It is tedious process of prep work in order to bond and cure properly. The market price of ceramic coating an average car is in the range of 1000$-2500$ depending on the quality. You can generally judge the quality of the installer by the price they charge for the service. The less expensive the service is, the higher chance that there will be cut corners in prepping your vehicle for coating.
Is there an Alternative for Ceramic Coating?
The main alternative to ceramic coating would be to get Paint Protection Film (also known As PPF or clear bra) will protect your paint from rock chips and deep scratches that Ceramic Coating can’t protect against. But you will still want to coat PPF itself with a Ceramic Coating, as they are not hydrophobic and doesn’t protect from UV damage. Learn more about applying Ceramic Coating over PPF.
Final verdict on ceramic coating.
Due to superior gloss and long-term protection, Ceramic Coating will certainly benefit your investment and add value.
Always do your research, not only on the installer but on the product they are using. It is important to be educated about a product before making decision about whether it is right for you and your prized possession.
Gleamworks detailing has been providing auto detailing services to the Vancouver Mainland ,BC for years. We are certified Opti-Coat installers. Our mission is to provide prestige auto protection services to car owners who expect the best.
Contact us If you are looking for Ceramic Coating or Paint Protection Film in Vancouver Mainland and learn more about products we use.
