We all want our car to look brand-new everyday. So, we get busy scheduling daily washes and monthly waxing to take out dirt, grime, scratches, stains and whatnot only for additional stains (from all that washing) to come out the next day.
Introducing ceramic coating for cars, the magical concoction that’s all the hype among car enthusiasts. In recent years, ceramic coatings have revolutionized the automotive industry. It provides an exceptionally polished look while protecting your vehicle’s paintwork for a longer period of time. Before we dive in to look at the factors that you need to consider to select the right coating product for your car, let’s take a deeper look into the definition of ceramic coatings.
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What is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that chemically bonds with your vehicle’s clear coat or paint. It is applied by hand, and though it is in liquid form, once cured, it forms a strong, hard layer over your vehicle’s paint. This makes all those stains, grime and dirt easier to remove without the constant need of washing every day.
You must be wondering about traditional wax and sealants now! While both protect the paint layer from environmental hazards, however, depending on the product and conditions, they may not last long. Eventually, you’ll have to start crunching numbers in little less than a year.
Hard polymers like ceramic coatings, on the other hand, will not only last long, but it’ll protect your vehicle’s paint and natural coating, shielding it from environmental conditions such as intense heat, oxidation, mechanical erosion, and even acid rain!
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Ceramic Coating
An increase in popularity also means an increase in competition. There are a number of ceramic coating brands now available that can quickly become daunting. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! Below are some factors you need to put into thought in order to select the perfect coating for your prized possession.
1. Assess Your Needs
Do you want a permanent or semi-permanent type of coating? Determine specific requirements when choosing the ideal ceramic coating for your car. This can include your vehicle’s age and condition, your budget, and your desired level of protection and shine. If your main concern is long-term protection and a showroom-like shine everyday, investing in a high-quality coating may be worth it.
2. Research Brands & Formulations
When it comes to selecting from a long list of brands, research their respective products and see which coating brand offers the whole package.
Not all ceramic coatings are the same. Some are fully based on silicon dioxide (SiO2) while others have silicon carbide (SiC) or titanium dioxide (TiO2) incorporated.
- Silicon dioxide-based coatings are easy to apply and have excellent water-repellent properties.
- Silicon carbide-based coatings provide better durability and chemical resistance.
- Titanium dioxide-based coatings are great at blocking UV rays, making them perfect for cars that are exposed in the intense sunlight almost every other day.
Understanding the differences between these formulas will make it easier for you to make an informed decision.
3. Durability & Longevity
Durability and longevity are the two primary reasons why car owners decide to apply a ceramic coating in the first place. High-quality ceramic coating will last about two to five years. However, you can also choose industrial-grade ceramic coating that’ll last for upto seven to eight years, depending on how regularly you’re keeping up with maintenance of your vehicle. Whatever you do, avoid cheaper coatings which’ll not only ruin your vehicle but burn a hole in your wallet requiring frequent reapplication.
4. Hydrophobic & Oleophobic Properties
Hydrophobic coatings repel water and Oleophobic coatings repel oil and other contaminants. Look for premium ceramic coatings that excel in both of the categories to receive optimal results.
5. UV Protection
Extended exposure to sunlight and heat can cause your vehicle’s paint to fade and deteriorate over time. Therefore, select a coating that can block harmful UV rays so your car can maintain its vibrant appearance for years to come.
6. Scratch & Chemical Resistant Properties
While no coating can guarantee scratch-proof property, ceramic coatings add an extra layer of protection that can significantly reduce the likelihood of minor scratches and swirl marks during maintenance and washing.
Bird droppings, tree sap, acid rain, and other chemical contaminants can wreck your car’s surface. Opt for a ceramic coating that can prevent damage to your car’s surface from these chemical contaminants.
7. Easy Application
If you are a DIY car enthusiast, there are many ceramic coatings available that are easy to apply by yourself. Just follow the instruction manuals carefully and you’ll be able to do it yourself. The downside to that is it can be very time-consuming and coating a car is a delicate process.
However, if you’re a newbie, or unsure about coating the car by yourself, it’s a good idea to leave it to the professionals. This way you can use professional-grade ceramic coating for that perfect shine and glow.
In a Nutshell
Investing in the right ceramic coating for your car is crucial for achieving long-term durability, protection, and long-lasting shine. Before heading out to the market, determine your primary needs and research on the brands and formulas that you need for your vehicle. You can take it up as a DIY project to coat your car by yourself with easy-application ceramic coatings or you can go for industrial-grade ones and have it done by professionals.
Consider selecting a coating that can repel water, oil and other chemical contaminants, block UV rays and keep your car looking pristine for a long, long time! Don’t forget to schedule your car for regular follow-ups for maintenance to unleash the power of your chosen ceramic coating.
