CERAMIC COATING
What is Ceramic Coating and How is it Applied?
Ceramic coating is a silica-based liquid polymer that, when applied to a surface, becomes a sacrificial layer.
ceramic coating is resistant to solvents, acids, alkalis, UV rays, harsh weather conditions and corrosion. if properly maintained, this layer of nano technology can last for years.
To understand ceramic coatings, it’s helpful to first look at the most common paint-protection products.
Wax is organic and the most affordable, 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.
Sealants, on the other hand, are synthetic and developed to last several months. They are easily applied, though typically don’t offer the same deep shine one gets from a quality wax.
Both are outmatched by a ceramic coating.
The clear coat on most manufacturers makes is between 2H and 4H on the hardness scale. Pro Grade Ceramic Coating is offered at 9H and 10H. Essentially, this extremely durable layer acts as a shell and prevents all substances from reaching and harming the paint.
Ceramic, unlike waxes and sealants, cannot just simply be wiped away. the application must be smooth and the clear coat beneath must be free of imperfections. Prep for application is easily 80% of why this service costs what it does. Most ceramic product cost between $100 to $200 per bottle, but the amount of prep that goes into the total application is why you will find mosts businesses charge north of $1000.
Once the ceramic is applied, it locks in the layer below. This is why we strongly suggest having a proffesional provide the service. If applied incorrectly, the ceramic must be wet sanded to remove. Your paint, both the base coat and clear coat, is already a very thin layer, so mistakes could mean having to refinish, or paint your vehicle.
LAYERING UP.
As with any other product, layering can extend the life of their affectiveness. But with ceramic, you add years instead of months with each layer.
Why is this beneficial? Well, there is a two-fold answer! First, because the ceramic acts as a sacrificial layer, the depth of the base/color coat remains vibrant for many years. take a look at most cars on the road. they will look dull over time compared to when they rolled off the lot, even when they have a fresh wash. poor maintenance wears away the clear coat, allowing harmful uv rays to slowly fade the color, and light scratching and swirling from carwash brushes reflect in the sun instead of that beautiful base coat from factory.
And 2nd, there is an upside on the back end to your investment. Besides making your vehicle’s color pop year round, and making maintenance much easier, ceramic can actually be reported to your carfax! The value of the service is added to the value of your vehicle. So, although the ceramic service can cost a pretty good penny upfront, that value is added when you go to trade or sell! Putting you in a better position down the line. You will get to enjoy years of looking great on the road, and put that value back in your pocket later on. Plus, the ceramic warranty is transferrable, and a great selling point!
*COATING CHART REFLECTS YEARS OF PROTECTION FOR VEHICLES WITH MINIMAL MAINTENANCe. ASK US HOW YOU CAN DOUBLE YOUR PROTECTION WITH A PROPER MAINTENANCE PLAN!