Ceramic coating is a clear liquid polymer which contains silica dioxide. When applied to the exterior surfaces of a vehicle it chemically bonds with the factory paint creating a long-lasting protective layer that is extremely hydrophobic, slick and durable. Ceramic coatings are typically applied to the vehicle’s paint, glass and alloys to provide years of protection and keep the car looking cleaner and newer for longer.
The Benefits of a Ceramic Coating
- OUTSTANDING DURABILITY – Unlike traditional waxes or sealants that last only a few months, ceramic coatings can last for years. The durable bond from the coating ensures that your vehicle remains protected whilst requiring minimal maintenance and fewer applications. This longevity is one of the main reasons ceramic coatings are a popular option.
- SUPERIOR PROTECTION – All cars are subject to abuse by the elements, particularly those that are driven frequently and stored outdoors. Ceramic coatings are able to protect the exterior against the sun’s UV rays, water spots as well as dirt and grime. They act as a shield, preventing your vehicle’s paint from fading and allowing contaminants to build up.
- EASY MAINTENANCE – Ceramic coatings make cleaning your car faster and much less labour-intensive. The slickness and hydrophobic properties it provides gives dirt and grime a harder time sticking to the surface. The huge advantage of the slickness it provides is that the majority of the dirt is removed with a simple prewash, massively reducing the risk of inflicting micro-marring and scratches during the contact stages of the cleaning process.
- ENHANCED GLOSS – Ceramic coatings provide exceptional levels of gloss to your vehicle’s paintwork. With the correct preparation prior to application they can add even more depth to the colour giving it the ultimate showroom shine that car owners crave.
- TIME AND COST SAVINGS – Although the initial application is more expensive than waxes and sealants, the long lasting protection saves you time and money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent applications and time spent on your car. Additionally ceramic coatings minimize the potential for paint damage, therefore helping to maintain your vehicles resale value and potentially saving you from any costly paint repairs.
The Application Process
Applying ceramic coating to your vehicle is a meticulous process and should be applied in the correct conditions which is why it is best left to professionals in order to achieve their maximum durability potential.
Here is a general overview of the steps involved:
- VEHICLE PREPARATION – The vehicle is thoroughly washed and decontaminated chemically and mechanically using a clay bar to ensure there is no dirt, grease, tar and embedded contaminants such as iron particles remaining on the surface.
- PAINT CORRECTION – Depending on the age and condition of the car, machine polishing may be necessary to remove any swirls and imperfections in the paint to ensure a flawless finish. This step will also ensure any old layers of paint protection is fully removed.
- APPLICATION – The surface is panel wiped to remove any polishing oils and then the ceramic coating is applied evenly in small sections using an applicator ensuring complete coverage one panel at a time.
- CURING – Following application, the ceramic coating needs time to cure. It is important not to allow the car to get wet during this process and keep it indoors. You can drive your car after 24 hrs but should refrain from washing it for at least 2 weeks to allow the coating to cure to its full strength.
If any of these stages are missed out or not done correctly it is likely your coating will not bond properly to the surface. This will reduce its maximum durability potential and it may not perform as well as it should.
Maintaining your ceramic coating
The good news is that ceramic coatings require little upkeep since the durability is so impressive. However, to ensure the ceramic coating lasts as long as possible, and the performance level is maintained. At Rubix Detailing, you can benefit from our maintenance package to make sure you are getting the best from your ceramic coating and keep your vehicle looking pristine.
Disadvantages
The only real drawback in comparison to traditional waxes and sealants, is that there is more preparation and skill involved in applying a ceramic coating and the initial investment is more.
There is also a misconception around ceramic coatings in regards to scratch resistance and stone chip protection. Although there is some level of scratch resistance, it will not protect the car from deeper scratches. You can however expect a level of protection from minor surface scratches which are commonly inflicted during the wash process.
Ceramic coatings will not protect your paint from stone chips. If you are looking for protection against stone chips and scuffs you should consider paint protection film. Click here to find out more about paint protection film here.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an incredibly long-lasting way to protect your cars exterior from the elements, then a ceramic coating may be for you. The long-term benefits in terms of maintenance ease, cost savings and impressive aesthetics that it provides is simply unmatched and makes it a very compelling choice for anyone looking to preserve and enhance their vehicle. It appeals to all car owners, not only does it make cleaning your car a much more enjoyable process but it will keep a new vehicle looking newer for longer and avoid an older vehicle from showing its age.
If you’ve read this article and decided that you want to choose a ceramic coating to protect your vehicle, then look no further. Rubix Detailing offers a ceramic coating service which is performed in a purpose-built detailing facility. We are able to prep your vehicle and get it looking the best it can before applying the coating in the perfect conditions.
Get a free quote today by giving us a call on 07399949991, by emailing us at info@rubixdetailing.co.uk or by filling in the relevant details into our online contact form and we will be happy to answer any questions and book you in at a time and date that is most convenient for you.