The most recent development in paint protection are products commonly referred to as ceramic coatings. These coatings are made from materials that are more durable than the polymers found in traditional sealants and waxes. Ceramics chemically bond to the paint surface, giving it a durable, longer-lasting protection over waxes and sealants. In addition to forming a very strong bond with the clear coat finish, a coating is generally much thicker than a wax or sealant, creating a sacrificial layer that can absorb damage and better protect the paint underneath. The thickness gives it a great depth of gloss that’s hard to achieve with other products. Most coatings will easily give years of protection when properly applied by a knowledgeable installer and maintained properly.

What are the Benefits of Ceramic Coatings?

Simply put, ceramic coatings are a superior level of protection against environmental damage from the sun’s UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap, and more. They exhibit extraordinary hydrophobic properties and have a low surface tension, making car washes nearly effortless. They offer long-term durability, are self-cleaning, enhanced contamination protection, scratch resistant, and greatly increase paint gloss and shine.

What are the Disadvantages of Ceramic Coatings?

While ceramics provide a much-improved service life and level of protection and durability, they may not be for everyone. Ceramics aren’t a magical, bullet-proof cure that leaves your vehicle in perfect shape without effort. Proper care of the vehicle is an absolute necessity. Improper washing techniques (especially automatic car washes including both the “spinning brushes” and “touchless”) can damage and degrade ceramics to the point where they won’t perform.

While there are consumer-grade ceramic coatings that can be applied by anyone, ceramics should always be applied by a professional. Improper application can lead to streaking, smearing, and “high spots” which require physical removal via a dual-action polisher and compound.

How to Maintain a Ceramic Coating

Maintenance of ceramic coatings do take a bit of extra care. Hand washing is highly recommended, especially the “two bucket method” which will minimize the chance of inflicting paint damage due to dirty water/wash mitts, etc. It is also necessary to use a Ph neutral car shampoo that doesn’t leave behind any residues (wash and wax shampoos) that may clog the ceramic, reducing its performance.

While many ceramic coatings boast anywhere from 1-10 years of protection, all require regular maintenance an occasional ceramic “booster” to maintain their protection. This refreshes the ceramic coating and reduces surface tension, preventing contaminants from bonding with the paint.

Types of Ceramic Coatings

Ceramic coatings can be used on nearly all surfaces of the vehicle! Most exterior ceramics can be used on paint, trim, chrome, etc. There are specific coatings specially designed for glass and wheels, as well. In addition, there are ceramic coatings designed for the interior surfaces of your car, which help prevent staining from spilled drinks, clothing dye transfer onto leather/vinyl, and more.

Ceramic Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ceramic coating a hoax/snake oil?
No. Ceramic coatings are the latest in protection technology, and have been around for decades in the aircraft and military sectors. They’ve only recently become popular to protect personal vehicles including cars, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and boats.

Can I apply Ceramic over wax (or vise versa)?
It is not recommended. Ceramic placed over existing wax will not bond with the surface and cause issues. Placing a non-ceramic wax/sealant or “topper” over an existing ceramic coating will likely clog the ceramic coating and drastically reduce its performance and visual appeal. Some ceramic coatings allow wax/sealants to be applied over them, but most specify only ceramic-specific toppers be applied.

Why is it so expensive?
Because a ceramic coating lasts so long, it is imperative that that the paint surface is properly prepped to receive the coating. This often includes a thorough wash, decontamination, claying, polish (to remove swirls, etc.) and extensive preparation so the ceramic can bond properly to the surfaces. This requires a lot of time and effort, and most detailers will require the vehicle for 24 hours or more to ensure proper application and bonding time. A large three-row SUV could take 8-10 hours of preparation and application of a ceramic coating.

Do Ceramics prevent scratches and swirl marks?
While a ceramic coating will provide more durability than waxes against scratches, they are not scratch-proof. Improper washing techniques will introduce scratches, which then require physical removal through a machine applied compound and polish.

Can I apply Ceramic coatings myself?
Yes. There are consumer-friendly coatings available, any ceramic (consumer or professional grade) is recommended to be applied by a professional due to the time involved in preparation and ensuring a proper bond with the surfaces.

How long do Ceramic coatings take to cure?
It depends on the brand of ceramic coating. But most ceramic coatings take anywhere from 8-24 hours to cure. The vehicle must be kept protected from drastic temperature and humidity spikes, as well as rain, etc. Usually ceramic coatings can be washed with a proper car shampoo (not dish soap!) after one week.

Is Ceramic Coating For Me?

In the end, it really depends on your needs. Ceramic coatings provide an incredible level of protection and shine for your vehicle. But they also require regular proper maintenance and care. If you detail your vehicle once-per-year and take it through automatic car washes, ceramic likely isn’t worth the time and expense. However, if you regularly maintain your vehicle through proper detailing and washing, and want an absolutely eye-popping vehicle, then you should definitely invest in a ceramic coating installed by Hunt Auto Detailing.