What is a ceramic coating?
Durability Against Chemicals and Contaminants
Ceramic coatings provide better chemical and contaminant durability than traditional waxes or sealants. They protect your paint from bird droppings, bug spots, and environmental variables such as oxidation—the chalky, dull, faded appearance caused by exposure to UV rays. Their antistatic properties also help reduce the accumulation of dust and soft dirt.
Will ceramic coatings prevent rock chips?
Unfortunately, they will not. While ceramic coatings help prevent minor scratches, their hardness is finite. However, PPF (Paint Protection Film) offers a physical layer of protection that can often prevent rock chips or other damage. Some advanced PPF films even have self-healing properties, which allow scratches and scuffs to disappear with proper technique and heat.
Another option is Icon Rock Clear, which is essentially PPF in liquid form. It adds a few microns of protection to your paint and can be layered for added defense. This option is especially popular among track enthusiasts, as it provides superior protection against harsh track environments. Both PPF and Icon Rock Clear are priced higher than ceramic coatings, but their longevity averages around 10 years and offer a greater threshold of protection.
Final thoughts
Ceramic coatings are one of the best investments in terms of paint protection and can be applied not only on paint, but glass, rims, and even trim! Talk to your local detailer or give our shop a call—we’ll be happy to offer advice on which coating is right for you!
"What is a ceramic coating, and is it really worth the hype?"
A question we often receive from current or potential clients, to which our response is: absolutely! Ceramic coatings, while sometimes costly, are one of the best investments you can make to preserve your vehicle.
A ceramic coating is essentially paste wax’s younger sibling—only genetically modified for superiority in every way. One of the most well-known differences is a coating’s longevity, which ranges from 6 months to 10 years. Another standout feature is its ability to bead water due to the Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂) content. While the percentage varies across different coatings, they all share significant advantages over traditional waxes.
SiO₂ molecules bond together over the car’s paint to create a protective layer with a hardness rating of up to 9H. This corresponds to the 9H pencil hardness rating, meaning it can help prevent swirl marks and other minor abrasions. And as for the glossiness? Unparalleled. One of our clients described it as: “a shine so deep, you could dive in and swim in it.”
How much do ceramic coatings cost?
That’s a loaded question! Price depends on several variables, including the amount of prep work required:
- Are there scratches or swirls?
- Is there tree sap or other deposits?
- Is the paint faded with oxidation?
A ceramic coating can be applied without extensive prep work and still retain some of the benefits explained earlier, but the integrity will be compromised without a smooth, level surface for adhesion.
Our process begins with a clay bar and decontamination treatment to remove embedded deposits from the clear coat. Next, we use a buffer and polish to eliminate swirling, scratches, or abrasive marks. Think of it as exfoliating and shaving your paint to make it smooth and shiny. Unless the vehicle is brand-new and fresh off the delivery truck, this step is our standard procedure.
Additional Cost Factors:
- Type of Ceramic Coating: Brands like Ceramic Pro may be more expensive than Gyeon, and a 5-year coating will naturally cost more than a 2-year coating.
- Warranty: Some coatings, such as SB3 and System X, offer warranties that are registered with Carfax as paint protection. If your vehicle is damaged and requires bodywork during the warranty period, the coating can often be reapplied under the claim.
