The Truth, Lies, and Myths about Ceramic Coatings

11/01/2021

What are Ceramic Coatings?

Ceramic coating is typically composed of silicon dioxide (silica, Si02), which is sourced from natural materials such as quartz and sand. Some types and brands also use titanium dioxide (titania, Ti02) as an additional hardening agent. When applied to a car's paint, the two create a chemical bond with hydrophobic, also known as water-repellent, properties.

To understand ceramic coatings, it’s helpful to first look at the most common paint-protection products. 

• Wax is organic and the most affordable, and is available in various forms ranging from an old-school paste to a quick-and-easy spray. For decades, “waxing” a car has been synonymous with keeping it looking shiny and new. Unfortunately, wax isn’t terribly durable and, therefore, should be applied multiple times per year. Some companies claim otherwise but environmental contaminants and even a harsh soap can easily break through that thin wax barrier. Wax longevity is around 45 days
• Sealants, on the other hand, are synthetic and developed to last 6-9 months.

Today’s technology allows us to stack or layer products, getting a good sealant then applying a refresh liquid wax each time you wash your vehicle to sustain protection.

However, both wax and sealants are outmatched by a ceramic coating. This silica-based liquid polymer is applied by hand and cures to form a protective layer that, when properly maintained, can be effective for several years.

What Kind of Coatings Exist Now?

Like with any other product that goes mainstream everyone starts selling, creating, and making unrealistic claims about their coating line. Some of these coatings on the market right now refer to themselves as glass or ceramic coatings. These coatings are more durable than a traditional polymer or Teflon.

One of the big reasons these products work so effectively is the amount of prep required to apply the coating. After washing, claying and buffing the car, you’re often required to wipe down the entire surface with some alcohol based cleaner. This intensive prep period is highly effective in removing all contaminants and oils from the surface to allow the coating to bond to the paint as best as it can.

What are the Benefits of Ceramic Coatings?

Many of these coatings require an authorized detailer to apply them for you. That means that they have experience in prepping the paint for application. This is a huge bonus for car lovers. Your paint may never look that good again because of how much work goes into preparing the car for one of these coatings.

• Presentation: Candy like gloss
• Hydrophobic: Ease of washing and cleaning
• Protection: From UV Rays and resistance to chemicals

Ceramic Coating Lies and Myths

As a professional business owner and resident in Greater Wilmington my reputation is more important than a transaction. We are in continual advanced training in our craft. We usually average at least three coatings a week. Truthfully, everyone is not a candidate for ceramic coatings.

Most ceramic sales at detail shops in Wilmington get commissions for selling a coating, therefore they exaggerate and over promise what a coating can do.

Myths or Truth?

• Coatings are 2-3 times harder than your clear coat
• Coatings protect your vehicle from scratches, swirls, and rock chips
• You do not have to wash your car any more
• Coatings last 6 yrs, 9 yrs, and even “Lifetime”
• Coatings protect your paint from sap, bugs, and bird bombs
• Automatic car washes will not damage a ceramic coating
• Coatings protect from water spotting

Before you purchase a ceramic coating give us a call or stop by and find out what is a myth and what is truth concerning coatings. There is no upselling or pressure. We educate our customers and help them find sustainability and a match for their driving needs.

Stop by for further information on Ceramic Coatings or call us at 910.769.0503.