There is a lot of talk about ceramic coating when it comes to car care. Some people swear by it, while others think it's a waste of time and money. So, what is ceramic coating? And is it worth the investment? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of ceramic coating so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to do it.
What is Ceramic Coating?
What exactly is ceramic coating? Ceramic coating is a clear, thin layer of film applied to a car's exterior. This film is designed to protect the paint from damage caused by UV rays, weathering, and other environmental factors. It can also make the car easier to clean and maintain.
Ceramic coating is typically made up of two main ingredients: quartz and silicon dioxide. Quartz is a mineral found in sand known for its hardness, whereas silicon dioxide is another hard substance found in rocks. Together, these two substances create a film that's very strong and durable. Check out paint protection for more ways to protect your car.
How does ceramic coating work?
When applied to a car, ceramic coating forms a bond with the paint. This bond is strong enough to protect the paint from scratches, swirl marks, and other forms of damage. The coating also repels water, dirt, and grime, making it easier to keep your car clean.
There are many types of ceramic coating on the market. Some are designed for specific purposes, such as protecting against UV rays or repelling water. Others are all-purpose coatings that can be used for any type of car.
Types of ceramic coating
There are two main types of ceramic coating: liquid and powder. Let's explore each one:
Liquid ceramic coating
The most popular type of ceramic coating is liquid. Liquid coatings are easy to apply and can be done at home with the help of a professional. They typically last for two to three years.
Powder ceramic coating
Powder coatings are less common but are growing in popularity. Powder coatings are applied using a special gun that sprays the coating onto the car. They typically last for four to five years.
Factors to Consider
When deciding whether or not to ceramic coat your car, there are also a few factors to consider:
- The type of car you have- If you have a new car and the budget for it, you may want to consider ceramic coating.
- How often you drive your car- If you drive your car often, ceramic coating can help protect it from the elements.
- Where you live- If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, ceramic coating can help protect your car's paint from damage.
- How much time and money you're willing to invest- Applying ceramic coating is not quick or cheap. It takes time and money to do it right.
What are the pros of ceramic coating?
There are several benefits to ceramic coating your car. Here are the best things about it:
It protects your paint from damage.
Because it's so strong and durable, ceramic coating protects your paint from scratches, swirl marks, and other types of damage. Common environmental factors like UV rays and weathering can also cause car paint to fade, but ceramic coating will help prevent that.
It makes your car easier to clean.
The hydrophobic (or water-repelling) properties of ceramic coating cause water and dirt to bead up on the surface of your car. This makes it much easier to clean your car, and you won't have to wash it as often.
It makes your car look good for longer.
Want your car to look shiny and new for as long as possible? Ceramic coating is the way to go. When a ceramic coating is applied properly, it improves the look of your car for years to come.
It can increase the value of your car.
If you ever decide to sell your car, the fact that it has ceramic coating will be a selling point. Ceramic coating protects your paint, so the next owner won't have to spend as much on upkeep.
What are the cons of ceramic coating?
Now that we've looked at the pros of ceramic coating, let's take a look at the potential drawbacks:
It's not permanent.
Unfortunately, while ceramic coating is strong and durable, it's not permanent. Over time, the coating will degrade and will need to be reapplied. It has a lifespan of about two to five years, so you'll need to factor that into the cost.
It's not a substitute for proper care.
Ceramic coating is designed to protect your paint, but it's not a replacement for proper car care. You still need to wash and wax your car regularly. Otherwise, the ceramic coating will become less effective.
It's not a cure-all.
Ceramic coating is designed to protect your paint from damage, but it can't fix pre-existing damage. If your car's paint is already scratched or faded, the ceramic coating won't be able to restore it to its original condition.
It's not cheap.
Ceramic coating is an investment, and it's not always cheap. The cost of the product itself is usually reasonable, but you also have to factor in the cost of labor. Applying ceramic coating is time-consuming, so you'll need to pay someone to do it.
How much does ceramic coating cost?
If you're considering ceramic coating for your car, you're probably wondering how much it will cost. The answer is: it depends. The product cost is usually around $100, but you also have to factor in the cost of labor.
As mentioned earlier, the entire process of applying ceramic coating is time-consuming. It can take up to eight hours to do it properly, so you'll need to pay someone. The cost of labor is usually around $500.
How to prep for ceramic coating?
In case you've decided to go ahead with ceramic coating, here's what you need to do to prep your car:
- Wash your car. This will help the coating adhere better and last longer. Not to mention, it will make your car look its best.
- Remove any existing paint protection. This includes things like waxes, sealants, and other coatings. Otherwise, the ceramic coating won't be as effective.
- Claybar your car. This is the process of using a clay bar to remove contaminants from the surface of your paint. The claybar will help the coating stick better and last longer.
- Polish your car. This is an optional step, but it will help the coating look its best. Polish is used to remove scratches and swirl marks from your paint.
- Clean your car. This is the final step before applying the coating. Make sure you use a clean microfiber cloth to avoid adding new contaminants to your paint.
The Verdict: Is ceramic coating worth it?
So, is ceramic coating worth it? The answer is: it depends. Ceramic coating is a good investment if you're looking for long-lasting paint protection. Do you value your car's appearance? If so, then you'll appreciate the fact that ceramic coating can help your car look its best for years to come.
However, it might not be worth it if you're not willing to spend the money on labor or don't want to deal with the hassle of reapplication. The main drawback of ceramic coating is its cost, after all, both in terms of the product and labor.
As for us, if you have the budget for it and are willing to take care of your car, then we say go ahead with a ceramic coating! Your car is an investment, and by adding an extra layer of protection, you're doing it justice.
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