The first instance of vehicle detailing dates back to the 1800s. In Germany, people would coat their horse carriages with animal fats to protect the paint. Today there are almost endless vehicle paint maintenance products out there, and it can be difficult to know where to start.
Ceramic coatings have emerged as the gold standard of car care and car protection film. These are specialised solutions that form a durable, aesthetically pleasing finish to your car’s exterior paint. There are different kinds of coatings as well as application methods to consider.
Find out everything you need to know about ceramic coatings. We’ll explain how it is made and the varieties available. Keep reading to find out if it is the right choice for your vehicle.
What Is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is an automotive detailing product made of a liquid polymer. This usually consists of silica and titanium dioxide that combine to adhere to surfaces. They also produce a shiny, solid outer layer.
While ceramic coating is most often applied to the exterior of vehicles, it can be used to protect interior surfaces as well. Besides paint, high-quality ceramic car coatings can add protection to chrome, carbon fibre, vinyl, glass (you may have heard of ceramic pro or nano coatings), making them versatile car care products. ceramic window tint), and many other surfaces.
Application Process
There are a few basic steps to applying a ceramic coating. First, the vehicle’s surface must be thoroughly cleaned, and dried, and a base coat may be applied to ensure the ceramic coating adheres properly.
In some instances, it may be necessary to polish the surface to remove all dirt and debris. In the most severe cases, technicians may need to decontaminate the surface. This removes the most stubborn, embedded contaminants.
Next, technicians will mask off any surfaces with which they do not wish the ceramic coating to come into contact. These include windows, headlights, and rubber or plastic trim.
The next step is to apply the ceramic coating, using a specialised applicator to ensure an even, consistent layer. Technicians will use specialised techniques to ensure the product goes on evenly and covers every inch of the surface. Buffing the excess finish off certain areas is almost always necessary.
The coating then goes through a curing process. This allows the ceramic molecules to chemically bond with those of the vehicle’s paint.
It can take up to a fortnight for the ceramic coating to fully cure to its finished state, although it is safe to drive the car after a few hours. However, the detailer may instruct you to take certain precautions and vehicle paint care tips to give the process ample time to complete.
Range of Ceramic Paint Protection Products
There are many types and brands of ceramic coating products. Some of these are marketed as “ceramic” coats but are sub-par alternatives to professional coating.
Good examples include Teflon-based and silica dioxide boost sprays. These are “ceramic in nature.” This means they contain some of the same ingredients you’ll find in professional-grade ceramic coating. However, they are usually diluted, which means you cannot achieve a solid, consistent coat throughout.
Due to their chemical makeup, they also are more prone to swirl marks and other aesthetic shortcomings during application. Conversely, professional products like NXTZEN ceramic coating are going to have a higher concentration of the protective elements, including sio2 and nano sealants.
Another advantage of a professional application is that technicians, often called detailers, will have complete control over the environment. This includes temperatures and exposure to sunlight, which can negatively impact the ability to properly apply the coating.
This means they are going to produce a more solid yet shiny and sleek surface. Most reputable dealers also include some sort of warranty covering their products and work, ensuring that your investment in ceramic pro or other paint coating applications is protected.
Keep in mind not all DIY spray-on products are bad. In fact, they are great for touch-ups or targeting particularly susceptible sections of your paint’s surface. However, they will not produce the type of comprehensive, long-lasting protection a professional coat will give you.
What Are the Benefits of Ceramic Coating?
The number one reason people choose ceramic coating is that it protects a vehicle’s paint. It can also block all types of foreign materials that threaten to damage the surface of your car. It can withstand some types of impacts, and it is difficult to scratch, largely due to the sio2 and nano materials used in the coating’s formula.
It also blocks harmful UV rays from the sun, which could otherwise lead to oxidation and fading on painted surfaces. Ceramic coating can also withstand harsh chemicals, including grease, oil, or other solvents which can be out on the road.
Protection from extreme hazards is vital, but ceramic coating also is superior to other types, such as wax or film, when it comes to keeping your car clean. Dirt and debris will easily slide off the ceramic finish. Also, when you clean it, any remnants wash off much easier.
Longevity is another advantage of ceramic coating. Depending on the type, ceramic coating can be semi-permanent or permanent. Regardless of the kind, you can expect it to last as long as years and even decades.
A final advantage of ceramic coating is that it looks fantastic. It leaves a stunning gloss that can bring out the best from your original paint job while restoring any damage or fading.
Is Ceramic Coating Expensive?
You may have heard ceramic coating costs more than other types of paint protection. This is true in general, but there is a major qualifier.
When you consider how much longer ceramic coating lasts, it actually costs less than other types of coating relative to lifespan. When you combine longer-lasting duration with superior durability, performance, look, and warranty, it becomes clear you’re getting much more bang for your buck with ceramic coating.
Ceramic Coatings For Cars Brisbane
Now that you know the basics of ceramic coatings and the many benefits they can afford, you can determine if they are right for your vehicle. An experienced technician can further advise you on the different options based on your personal preferences and goals for your car’s protection.
At Solar Style, we offer the best car ceramic coatings Brisbane has to offer. We also provide a variety of other services, including window tinting and detailing. Reach out to us today to learn more or to schedule service.
Ceramic Coatings FAQs
Is ceramic coating good for your car?
Ceramic coating can indeed be beneficial for your car in various ways. It offers excellent protection against environmental contaminants like UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap, and more. It also provides a hydrophobic layer that repels water and makes cleaning easier, while enhancing the shine and appearance of the paint.
How long do ceramic coatings last?
The longevity of ceramic coatings can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the product used, the preparation of the surface, and how well the car is maintained. Generally, a professionally applied ceramic coating can last anywhere from one to five years or even longer with proper care and maintenance.
How much should ceramic coating a car cost?
As for the cost, it can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the vehicle, the brand and quality of the ceramic coating product, and whether the coating is applied by a professional detailer or done DIY. On average, professional ceramic coating services can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. DIY ceramic coating kits are available at lower costs, but they may not offer the same level of durability and expertise as a professional application. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable detailer that fits your budget and requirements.
Protection For Your Car
Are you tired of spending hours on end cleaning your car, only to see it dull and vulnerable to the elements shortly after? Say goodbye to constant upkeep and hello to long-lasting protection with ceramic coatings!
Whether you’re a busy commuter, an off-road adventurer, or a weekend cruiser, ceramic coating protects your vehicle against dirt and grime. Take the first step towards a cleaner, shinier, and more resilient vehicle today!
Contact our team today, we offer the best ceramic coating for cars in Brisbane. Keep your car looking great with the best level of protection we can offer.