Car ceramic coating has become increasingly popular in car detailing circles in recent years as an effective, efficient and cost-effective way to protect a vehicle’s paintwork from the elements. But is it worth the investment? This article will go over the benefits as well as limitations of car ceramic coating to help you decide if investing in this product is the best thing for you and your vehicle.
What is Car Ceramic Coating?
Car ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that’s applied to the exterior of a car to protect its paintwork. The coating creates a protective layer that’s resistant to UV rays, dirt and most other common contaminants that drivers encounter on the road. The coating also creates a hydrophobic layer on top of the car’s paintwork, which means water and other liquids will bead up and slide off the vehicle instead of settling and sitting on the surface, causing water spots. This not only helps to keep the car cleaner, but also protects the paint from etching caused by watermarks that can be difficult to remove.
The Benefits of Car Ceramic Coating
When weighing up whether car ceramic coating is a worthy investment for you and your vehicle, it’s important to simultaneously consider the benefits and drawbacks of the product and determine whether the advantages are a worthwhile trade-off for some of the limitations of this type of car cleaning product.
Some of the biggest benefits of ceramic coating for cars include:
- Long-lasting Protection – Car ceramic coating can provide long-lasting protection for your vehicle’s paintwork. Unlike traditional car wax, which needs to be reapplied every few months, ceramic coating can last for up to several years depending on the quality of the product and the application method.
- Improved Appearance – Ceramic coating will naturally enhance the appearance of your car by creating a glossy, reflective finish. It can also make the paintwork look deeper and richer in colour.
- Resistant to Contaminants – Ceramic coating creates a protective layer that’s resistant to contaminants such as dirt, grime and bird droppings. This makes it even easier to clean your car and further reduces the risk of damage to the paintwork.
- UV Protection – Ceramic coating is resistant to UV rays, which can cause the paintwork to fade and deteriorate over time. It’s not always easy to be mindful of where you’re parking, especially if you’re in a hurry. Ceramic coating products can give you the confidence to park in the sunlight if needed with the peace of mind knowing that your car paint will be protected.
The Drawbacks of Car Ceramic Coating
- Cost – One of the biggest disadvantages of car ceramic coating is the cost. These types of products can cost more than car wax and similar protective products, and ceramic coating also typically requires professional application to ensure that it’s applied correctly.
- Time-Consuming Application – Ceramic coating requires a careful and time-consuming application process to ensure proper application. This can be a disadvantage for car owners who want a quick and easy solution to protect their paintwork.
- Limited Protection – While ceramic coating can provide excellent protection against contaminants and UV rays, it’s not completely foolproof. It may not protect your car against more significant damage, such as scratches or dents caused by impacts from structures or other vehicles.