Ceramic Coatings to protect your paint.
You have probably heard of these popping up everywhere or talked about among car fanatics. Maybe you see them as the hot, new craze. There is some myth about coatings and lots of facts. We’d love to educate you about all of it so you can make the best decision on the right protection for your paint.
Ceramic Coatings vs. Wax and Paint Sealants
Applying wax to your car is the traditional method to get some level of protection for your paint. Car Wax Sealant and car paint sealants have been around for quite some time since the days of single stage paints. They are meant to lay on top of your clear coat and provide and extra “layer” of protection.
Ceramic coatings are the evolution in paint care and protection. Automotive paint has evolved over the years which has pushed the industry to expand and discover new ways to protect it. Coatings bond with the clear coat instead of just laying on top of it. That distinction yields months and years of hydrophobic properties, deep gloss, and lasting protection instead of weeks to months like traditional waxes.
Ceramic Coating Benefits
The most eye-opening benefit you will notice after getting a ceramic coating is how shiny your car looks. A coating will really bring out the gloss in your paint. The other very visible benefit will be the next time it rains or you wash your car. Ceramic coatings make any surface it is applied to extremely hydrophobic meaning it will “repel” or “bead” water. It will make washing and drying your car a breeze. Since your wheels often get the dirtiest, a coating on them and your brake calipers will really turn a chore into a joy. Brake dust and dirt will easily come off.
Now that your car’s paint is protected by the nano-technology in the coating, it will be protected against bird droppings, bug guts, tar, and tree sap. Some coatings even protect against UV light damage and slow down the fading that typically is associated when a car sits out in the sun.
Gloss and Shine!
Witness a shine on your vehicle like never before. Your car will always seem glossy like it was just cleaned. It will be an eye catcher for sure.
Easier To Clean
Ceramic coated cars are easier to clean and dry. Water beads right off the paint and towels glide smoothly over the surface.
Investment
Applying a ceramic coating to your car is an investment. It will be easier and less costly to maintain your car’s paint in the future. Quality coatings add value to your vehicle as well if you were to sell it.
Longevity
Coatings are some of the longest lasting protection you can achieve on your paint. You can expect years of guaranteed protection with most coatings.
Protection
Coatings help to repel dirt, grime, bird droppings, bug guts, tree sap, road tar, and many other contaminants. Some coatings also help with UV protection.
FAQ
We seem to get the most questions regarding Ceramic Coatings. Here are some of the questioned that are brought up the most. If you see a question that is not listed, feel free to reach out to us – we would be happy to answer!
What is a ceramic coating, and why should I get one?
Ceramic coatings are the lastest evolution in protective products for paint, wheels, surfaces such as plastic trim and vinyl, cloth, and leather. Unlike the often used wax and paint sealants, the longevity of a coating is measured in YEARS instead of weeks and months.
A coated vehicle will have a clear coat that has bonded with the nano particles in the coating to give you the ultimate protection. You will get an ultra-durable, high gloss, hydrophobic finish that will stand up to the punishment that nature will throw at it. The protection is 10x that of a traditional wax and makes maintaining your vehicle a breeze.
What is the difference between Ceramic Coatings and Paint Protection Films (PPF)?
Ceramic coatings are designed to take the place of waxes and paint sealants. They protect surfaces from chemical contaminants like bird droppings, bug guts, and salt. They also help to slow down the process of UV fading. Ceramic coatings are essentially locking in the condition of the paint to ensure it looks good for years to come.
PPF is a clear urethane film that is installed on top of painted surfaces. Think of it as a layer on top of everything to protect against impacts and defects such as rock chips, parking lot dings, and scratches. It is nearly invisible to the naked eye. It is the ultimate protection against impact damage.
Can I just install the ceramic coating myself?
You absolutely could try to do it yourself. There are consumer-level coatings you can buy online to try and coat your car on your own. There are just three big keys you should think about when deciding to tackle this as a DIY or get a professional such as Inspire Detailing to perform the service.
The first is the prep work. Applying a coating is much more about getting the surface ready for the coating than applying the coating itself. The process of paint correction is a very labor-intensive and time-consuming undertaking. We are specialists here, and you can rest assured that the paint will be expertly prepared prior to a coating being applied. Without a completely clean surface, the coating will not bond properly and will not last the designated lifespan.
Secondly, the environment in which you are applying is important. If you are doing it outside you run the risk of debris getting caught in the coating. You also want to be out of direct sunlight, rain, or other elements. We apply coatings in a controlled environment, free of risk.
And lastly, recognizing issues. Every coating is not considered equal. Problems will arise that will need to be fixed. Maybe there are high spots in the coating, maybe a spot was missed, or a section did not cure correctly – these are all issues that can come up that we would be able to correct before you even saw the final product. You may not know how to handle those and would end up taking it to a professional in the end anyways.
How do I maintain my coating?
How long does a ceramic coating last?
Should I only get a coating if I have a brand new car?
Ceramic coatings are for anyone who wants to have long lasting protection installed on their car. If you want to have an easier time maintaining and washing your vehicle, then a coating will give you that. The only difference between a brand new car and a used car is the amount of prep work that needs to be completed before the coating can go on. At Inspire Detailing we can make that used car look brand new again and have it ready for the coating of your choice. Don’t be discouraged just because you think your old, used car is in rough shape. We specialize in bringing the paint back to life and you will enjoy all the benefits the coating provides.
Now that I have a ceramic coating I don't need to worry about scratches and rock chips, right!?
Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there about what a ceramic coating will prevent. While the coating does create a layer or shell on your paint, it is not immune to damage. Coatings are not thick enough to prevent rock chips either, only a PPF (paint protection film) can negate that sort of impact. There will be a small resistance to swirl marks or marring induced during washing or maintenance, but education is key. Here at Inspire Detailing, we will provide you with the tools and knowledge to care for and maintain your investment after you leave our doors.
