Table of Contents
II. Benefits of Ceramic Coatings
III. Downside of Ceramic Coatings
IV. Ceramic Coating vs. Waxing
V. How to Apply Ceramic Coating to Your Car
VI. How Much Does it Cost to Have a Ceramic Coating Professionally Applied?
VII. How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last on a Car?
VIII. How to Clean a Ceramic Coated Car
IX. GlassParency’s Ceramic Coating and Graphene Coating
X. Why Car Manufacturers Don’t Apply Ceramic Coatings
Conclusion
I. Introduction
What are Ceramic Coatings for vehicles?
Ceramic coatings are typically made of a liquid polymer that contains silica, titanium dioxide, or other ceramic nanoparticles. When applied to a vehicle's surface and cured, these coatings form a hard, transparent layer that provides protection against environmental contaminants, UV rays, scratches, and enhances the vehicle's paint with an improved depth of gloss and shine. Ceramic coatings are also hydrophobic, which means they repel water and make it easier to clean the vehicle.
Importance of protecting your car's paint
Your car's paint job is one of the most important features of your vehicle for both appearance and functional reasons. The paint color and condition has arguably the biggest impact on your cars overall appearance.
Functionally, the paint and clear coat serve as a primary barrier between the vehicle's metal body and the outside environment. Over time, the paint can become damaged or worn down by exposure to UV rays, acid rain, bird droppings, and other environmental contaminants. Once the paint is damaged, the underlying metal can become vulnerable to rust and corrosion, which can cause irreversible damage to the vehicle's structural integrity.
Many choose to invest in a high-quality paint protection solution like ceramic coatings because it helps to maintain a vehicles resale value by preserving the paint and vehicle appearance for years to come.
II. Benefits of Ceramic Coating for Cars
Improved durability and protection
Ceramic coatings provide an additional layer of protection that is more durable and longer-lasting than traditional waxing or sealants. Ceramic coatings help shield your car's paint job from UV rays, acid rain, and other corrosive elements that can cause fading, discoloration, damage, and decreased resale value.
Enhanced appearance and shine
Ceramic coatings give your car a noticeable glossy, sleek appearance that make it stand out on the road. It creates a smooth, reflective surface that enhances the depth and clarity of your paint job, making it look newer and more vibrant.
Easier maintenance and cleaning
Ceramic coatings also makes your car easier to clean and maintain. Its hydrophobic properties repel water and dirt, reducing the frequency of car washes and detailing. It also makes it easier to remove stubborn bugs, stains, and debris.
III. Downside of Ceramic Coating for Cars
High cost compared to other paint protection methods
Ceramic coating can be more expensive than other paint protection methods, such as waxing or sealants, particularly if done by a professional. This higher cost is because of the amount of time, skill, and expertise required for the best results when applying a ceramic coating. However, many car owners find it to be a worthwhile investment because it provides years of long-lasting protection and better results than cheaper alternatives.
Difficulty of application, especially for DIY enthusiasts
Applying a ceramic coating can be challenging, especially for those who lack experience or proper equipment. It requires precise preparation and technique, and even minor errors can affect the final result. Professional installers are typically trained and certified by organizations or manufacturers in the proper steps to apply a ceramic coating.
Limited protection against rock chips and heavy impacts
Ceramic coating can't prevent all types of damage, particularly from heavy impacts or sharp objects like rock chips. While it can provide some protection against minor scratches and abrasions, it's not a foolproof solution for preventing damage to your car's paint job.
IV. Ceramic Coating vs. Waxing
Ceramic coating and waxing are two different methods of protecting a car's paint, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Waxing is a traditional method of protecting a car's paint that involves applying a layer of wax to the surface of the car. Waxes can be natural or synthetic and provides a temporary layer of protection that can wear off more quickly and needs to be reapplied regularly.
Ceramic coating, on the other hand, is a long-lasting, professional-grade protection method that can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years or longer. It provides superior protection against scratches, chips, and UV rays, and appearance enhancement.
While waxing can be done at home, ceramic coatings are typically best left to professionals and experienced DIY detailing enthusiasts due to the complexity of the paint correction process that's recommended prior to the application of a ceramic coating for best results. For DIY detailers, GlassParency offers DIY Ceramic Coating Kits for those who are experienced with paint correction and prefer to do their own work.
In general, ceramic coating is the better option for those looking for long-lasting protection and enhanced appearance, while waxing is a good option for those looking for a temporary solution, are on a tighter budget, or prefer the more traditional method.
V. How to Apply Ceramic Coating to Your Car
Explanation of the application process
The application of a ceramic coating is a multi-step process that can take anywhere from 1 to 4+ days depending on the amount of Paint Correction required, the size of the vehicle, and the cure time. The general steps that are followed are...
Step 1: Wash & Decontamination
Step 2: Paint Correction
Step 3: Ceramic Coating Application
Step 4: Coating Curing
For a complete step-by-step guide, check out our guide on How to Apply a Ceramic Coating to a vehicle and for step-by-step directions on how to wash & decontaminate your car without damaging the paint, check out the Two-Bucket Hand Wash Method.
If you do not have experience using a buffer for paint correction, we recommend having a detailing professional prep your car and apply the ceramic coating. Contact us and we can connect you with one of our many Authorized Installers nationwide to receive an estimate.
Tips for ensuring a successful coating application
To achieve the best results when applying a ceramic coating, it's important to properly decontaminate the surface, do a paint correction, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and use high-quality tools and supplies. You should also work in a clean, well-ventilated, controlled environment (i.e. garage) and avoid applying the coating in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Recommended tools and supplies for the job
Some of the tools and supplies you'll need to apply ceramic coating to your car include microfiber towels, applicator pads, a clay bar or equivalent, Iron Remover, Panel Prep, Heavy Duty Soap, Graphene or Ceramic Coating.
Check out our Graphene Coating Kit for everything you need to apply our Ceramic Coating
VI. How Much Does it Cost to have a Ceramic Coating professionally applied?
The cost to have a ceramic coating applied by a professional detailer can range widely, but generally the cost can be anywhere from $800 to $4,000+.
Because there are so many variables that go into determining the cost of a ceramic coating application, you typically will have to bring your vehicle to a local detailer for them to evaluate and provide an estimate. Factors that impact how much it will cost include...
- Paint Condition: vehicles with paint in perfect condition require less time to prep for coating application than paint that has scratches, chips, swirls, etc. which may require hours, or even days, of buffing, polishing, and prep work
- Number of Layers: if your detailer applies more than one layer of ceramic coating, you will likely pay more
- Surfaces Coated: if you ceramic coat your paint+wheels, it will cost more than coating the paint alone
- Detailer Experience and Reputation: reputable detailers have gone through many trainings and certifications to hone their skills and craft. Their expertise and workmanship justifies a higher price.
- Location: a detailer in New York City may charge more than a detailer in rural North Carolina
If you're interested in receiving an estimate to have GlassParency's Ceramic or Graphene Coating applied to your vehicle, contact us and we'd be happy to connect you with one of our many Authorized Installers nationwide.
VII. How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last on a Car?
Ceramic coatings typically last between two to five years, depending on the quality of the product. GlassParency's Ceramic and Graphene Coatings are high-quality, professional-grade products that are designed to last five years or more with proper application and maintenance.
Factors that can affect the coating's longevity
Factors that can affect the longevity of a ceramic coating include how often the car is driven, the type of environment it's exposed to, the number of layers applied, how well it was originally applied, and how well it is maintained. For example, cars that are parked outside in extreme weather conditions, driven frequently on rough roads, and parked beneath trees will require more frequent maintenance and may need to be re-coated sooner. Additionally, if the coating is not applied correctly, it may not adhere properly, leading to premature failure.
How to tell when it's time to reapply the coating
When it's time to reapply the coating, there are a few signs to look out for. One of the most obvious signs is when water stops beading on the car's surface, indicating that the coating has worn away. Another sign is when the car's surface starts to feel rough or loses its shine. In general, it's best to reapply the coating before these signs become too noticeable.
To maximize your ceramic coating performance and durability, check out our Complete Guide to Ceramic Coating Care and Maintenance for a detailed maintenance plan and a list of what to avoid for your coated vehicle.
VIII. How to Clean a Ceramic Coated Car
Recommended cleaning methods and products
When cleaning a ceramic coated car, it's important to use the proper cleaning methods, such as the Two-Bucket Method, and coating-safe products to avoid damaging the coating. Always use pH-neutral or ceramic-specific cleaning products to avoid stripping away the coating and use a soft microfiber towel or wash mitt to hand wash the car, as well as a drying towel to prevent water spots.
For a year-round guide to properly cleaning your ceramic coating while maximizing its durability, follow our recommended Ceramic Coating Maintenance Plan
Tips for avoiding damage to the coating
Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges or brushes, and never go through automatic brush car washes. Always hand wash a ceramic coated vehicle. It’s important to wash the car regularly (once every 1 to 3 weeks) to avoid letting dirt and grime build up on the car’s surface, as this can lead to damage to the coating.
We recommend having a quick detail spray like our Silica Waterless Wash in the car for spot cleaning dirt, dust, bird droppings and other easy to clean contaminants. You can also use a topcoat product such as our BOOST Spray to rejuvenate and protect the coating for up to 3 months at a time.
GlassParency offers a range of Ceramic Coating safe cleaning and maintenance products. Check them out here.
IX. GlassParency's Ceramic Coating and Graphene Coating for Cars
Explanation of GlassParency's Ceramic Coating and Graphene Coating
GlassParency offers a variety of paint protection solutions, including our Boost Sealant, Graphene Spray Coating, Ceramic Coating, and Graphene Coating. Each of these coatings are designed to provide varying degrees of durability at different price points for water repellency, shine, and protection against weathering, UV rays, and other hazards that can damage your car's paint job.
Benefits of using GlassParency's coating over other brands
GlassParency's ceramic and graphene coatings are formulated using the highest quality polymers available to provide superior performance and quality compared to other brands on the market. On top of our product quality, GlassParency stands behind our products and we're there for our customers every step of the way as a resource before, during, and after ceramic coating application. Whether you need ceramic coating safe products to maintain the coating after it's been applied or if you have questions about the process - we have product specialists available to you 5 days a week. Contact us today!
Explanation of the differences between graphene and ceramic coatings
Graphene coatings are a newer, more advanced type of coating that‘s made of graphene nanoparticles, which are a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb structure. Graphene coatings offer excellent heat resistance which translates to decreased water spotting and an increased lifetime durability compared with traditional ceramic coatings.
X. Why Car Manufacturers Don't Apply Ceramic Coating
Car manufacturers don’t apply ceramic coatings to their vehicles primarily due to cost concerns. The application process is time-consuming and expensive, meaning it's more cost-effective for manufacturers to apply alternatives, such as waxes or sealants. Additionally, the durability of ceramic coatings makes it less likely that customers will need to purchase new vehicles as frequently, potentially reducing sales for the manufacturer.
Also, car manufacturers typically focus on producing high volumes of vehicles quickly and efficiently, which is not always compatible with the longer application process required for ceramic coating. By applying the coating at the factory, it would likely drive up the cost of the car, which would be passed on to the consumer with an increase in the price of the vehicle.
That's why aftermarket ceramic coating suppliers like GlassParency and professional detailers are essential to the automotive industry by providing high-quality, cost-effective solutions for car owners who want the benefits of a ceramic coating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ceramic coating your vehicle is an excellent option for car owners who want to protect and enhance the appearance of their vehicle's paint.
GlassParency's ceramic coating and graphene coating are high-quality products that provide superior durability, protection, and shine. Whether you’re a DIY detailer looking for a Ceramic Coating Kit or you’re interested in receiving an estimate from one of our Authorized Installers, GlassParency can help.
It's essential to follow proper cleaning and maintenance procedures to maximize the coating's lifespan, and having a ceramic coating maintenance plan is crucial. When considering whether to wax or ceramic coat your car, it's important to consider the benefits of each method and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Finally, while car manufacturers may not apply ceramic coatings to their vehicles, aftermarket suppliers like GlassParency provide an excellent alternative for car owners who want to protect their investment and maintain their vehicle's appearance for years to come.
Who We Are
GlassParency is a leading provider of professional and DIY detailing supplies to more than 3,500 professional detail shops and tens of thousands of DIYers. We offer premium quality glass coatings, ceramic coatings, graphene coatings, and other high-quality detailing products that help clean, protect, and enhance the appearance of vehicles. GlassParency has become a trusted name in the industry thanks to our best-in-class customer support and innovative, reliable products.
