Frequently Asked Questions About Ceramic Coatings

What is a ceramic coating?

The ceramic coat covers the surface of your car which also acts as a shield against everyday wear like water spots and bug residue.  Since it's ceramic-based, the ceramic coating causes water to bead up and roll off so it allows for easier cleaning and protection of your vehicle.

Professionally installed Ceramic coatings form an ultra-hard surface that holds up better than any other conventional surface finish like wax. Ceramic coatings last for years without any major maintenance, except for periodic cleaning to keep it looking its best.

What are some of the benefits of a ceramic coating?

No need to wax or seal the vehicle for the life of the coating. Ceramic coatings create a barrier that is significantly harder, more chemical resistant, and longer lasting than any wax or sealant. Adding any products “on top” of a coating other than maintenance products sold by the coating manufacturer can impede a coating's protective abilities.
 

Reduce the amount of cleaning needed, making cleaning the vehicle easier. Dirt releases easier, and faster, and the resulting effect is much less time and effort needed to make your vehicle look like it has been freshly detailed.

​

​Marring resistance. While NOTHING is “scratch-proof” some professional grade coatings do make the surface harder than the original clear coat, thus greatly reducing the amount of swirl marks accumulated over time vs. a non-ceramic coated vehicle with proper washing and drying techniques.

​

Excellent gloss and aesthetic appeal. Clients have told us that even years after having their vehicle ceramic coated, they still get compliments about the car having a “just detailed look” after a simple wash.

​

UV and chemical protection. Ceramic coatings provide protection against harmful UV rays and chemicals far beyond any wax or sealant. Most professional grade coatings are very chemical resistant and can only be damaged or removed by extremely high or low PH products.

Many advantages of ceramic coatings:

1. Your vehicle will be easier to clean

2. No more waxing 2-4 times a year

3. It's cost-effective

4. An extra layer of hardened protection

5. Ceramic coatings repel mud, dirt, and water

6. Keeps your vehicle looking new for years

7. UV protection to prevent fading and loss of shine

8. Makes removing bugs simple and fast

9. The coating makes cleaning faster and easier

Why is a ceramic coating better than wax?

Most ceramic coatings can last more than three years without any major maintenance, except for periodic cleaning to keep it looking its best. Waxes only last about six weeks before they begin to wear thin and crack so ceramic coatings are almost always the better choice over wax when trying to preserve the lifespan of your vehicle's paint job. Ceramic coatings last for years with proper wash technique and periodic maintenance.

How do I take care of a ceramic coating after it is applied?

The simplest answer to this question is to wash it, then dry it completely, and take it to your detailer as needed for decontamination or maintenance. Maintenance from a detailer may consist of high PH washing to deep clean the coating, chemical decontamination with iron removal chemicals, clay bar treatment, maintenance products meant to reinvigorate or increase slickness, or even spot polishing and recoating of small sections in case of damage.

What if I get into a car accident? Will insurance cover the cost of having the coating re-applied?
 

In our years of experience dealing with these situations, we have found that with full coverage insurance, the cost of coating re-application is covered under most policies. Make sure to inform us as soon as possible after an accident occurs we can provide an estimate for re-coating the damaged sections of the vehicle so that you can submit the information to your insurance company.

​

There is a huge variance in pricing from one detailer to the next, or even from the dealership on the cost of a ceramic coating. What gives?

Many factors affect the pricing of a ceramic coating, including but not limited to:

• The experience, knowledge, and skills of the detailer applying the coating.

• The type of coating being applied, all products are different.

• The level of preparation needed prior to applying the coating. Some dealerships or detailers will skip steps altogether in order to offer a lower price.

• The size, color, and manufacturer of the vehicle can also affect pricing. Some vehicles have much softer clear coats that are harder to prepare for coating application than others.

​

Is ceramic coating like wax?

No, ceramic coating is not like wax. While both are used to protect the exterior of a vehicle, ceramic coatings offer a more long-lasting and durable layer of protection compared to wax.
 

Ceramic coatings are made of a liquid polymer that is applied to the surface of a vehicle and then chemically bonds with the vehicle's paint. This creates a hard and durable layer of protection that can resist scratches, UV rays, and chemical stains for an extended period of time. Additionally, ceramic coatings can provide a hydrophobic effect, causing water to bead up and roll off the surface of the vehicle, making it easier to clean.

In contrast, wax is a mixture of natural or synthetic ingredients that are applied to a vehicle's surface to create a protective layer that can resist water, dust, and minor scratches. However, wax is less durable than ceramic coatings and will require more frequent reapplication to maintain its protective properties.

​

Is ceramic coating good for your car?

Yes, ceramic coating can be good for your car. Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is applied to the exterior of a car to provide protection against scratches, UV rays, and chemical stains. It creates a hydrophobic layer that repels water and dirt, making it easier to clean the car. Ceramic coating can also enhance the car's shine and make it look more glossy.
 

However, it's important to note that ceramic coating is not a miracle solution that will protect your car from all types of damage. It will not prevent dents or major scratches, and it is not a substitute for proper maintenance and care of your car. Additionally, the quality of the ceramic coating depends on the quality of the product used and the skill of the person applying it, so it's important to do your research and choose a reputable professional to apply the coating if you decide to go that route.

​

Is ceramic coating permanent?

Ceramic coating is semi-permanent and also be permanent depending on the type of ceramic coating. It is highly durable and long-lasting compared to other types of paint protection products. While traditional wax and sealant products last for a few months, ceramic coatings can last for years with proper maintenance.
 

The durability of the ceramic coating depends on several factors such as the quality of the product, the method of application, and the level of maintenance. Over time, the coating may start to wear off or become less effective due to exposure to the elements, frequent washing, or other factors. When this happens, the coating can be reapplied to restore its protective properties.
 

It's important to note that while ceramic coating can provide excellent protection for your car's paint, it is not a foolproof solution that will prevent all types of damage. Proper maintenance, such as regular washing and detailing, is still necessary to keep your car looking its best and protect it from damage.