Showroom cars exude a level of beauty that captivates us all. Their flawless paintwork, shining under the lights, is a sight to behold. However, maintaining that pristine look can be a challenge without the right protection. This is where the ceramic coat comes in.
I’ve been eager to write this article for some time now. Despite the recent surge in talk and ads about ceramic coatings, many mistake it for a new trendy technology. In reality, ceramic coatings date back much further than you’d think. In All About Ceramic Coating, I’ll delve into the intriguing history and original purpose of the invention, as well as how it transitioned from its origin to the hands of auto enthusiasts. I’ll also break down the pros and cons, alternative protectants, and how to choose the right one.
The Origin of Ceramic Coating
The origins of ceramic coatings and how they were invented may surprise you. These coatings have been around for thousands of years and were originally unrelated to transportation. Initially, coatings were made from mud and water to create a sacrificial layer over valuable items.
Ancient China used ceramic coatings to protect pottery before firing it in a kiln. Similarly, Rome and Ancient Greece utilized these early protective coatings, then called enamels, to prevent metal items like armor and weaponry from corroding. Over time, protective coatings became more widespread, serving various purposes such as coating ships to enhance longevity. By the 1950s, the military was using ceramic coatings in aerospace applications to protect metal from extreme temperatures.
Today, a ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to a vehicle’s exterior to shield it from external damage. It acts as a sacrificial layer, protecting the paint from scratches, UV rays, and environmental contaminants. While the core purpose of ceramic coatings has remained consistent, the formulas have evolved significantly, advancing with time and scientific discoveries.
When Did Ceramic Coating Become Popular?
In the 1990s, ceramic coatings burst onto the scene, catching the eye of car manufacturers who recognized their potential for automobile use. Initially, these coatings were pricey and tricky to apply, limiting their accessibility.
Fortunately, technology has since evolved, making ceramic coatings more attainable for DIY auto enthusiasts. Over the past decade, there’s been a surge in people investing in protecting and enhancing their vehicles, which are often one of the most significant assets in a household.
This growing interest hasn’t gone unnoticed by the auto detailing industry. Recognizing the demand, companies have developed more affordable and user-friendly ceramic coating formulations. As these innovative coatings continue to be refined, more home enthusiasts are eager to try them out in their own garages. This trend shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the use of professional-grade ceramic coatings is expected to become a staple in car owners’ care routines.
Pros and Cons of Ceramic Coat
As with all things, there are pros and cons of ceramic coats. Ceramic coatings offer a myriad of benefits, including scratch and swirl mark resistance, hydrophobic properties, and a high gloss finish. However, they do have their limitations. For instance, ceramic coatings do not remove or hide existing flaws in the paintwork, and depending on the condition of the existing paintwork, prep work can be extensive. Despite these drawbacks, the pros of ceramic coatings far outweigh the cons, making them an essential investment for car owners looking to protect their vehicles. To give you a better understanding of what to expect, I’ll break this down a little more.
Using a ceramic coating on your car offers a range of benefits that enhance its appearance and protect its finish. The coating provides a showroom aesthetic, with a high gloss finish that is incredibly shiny and smooth. Its hydrophobic properties make water bead up and roll off the surface, reducing the chances of water spots and making your car easier to clean. The coating also offers scratch and swirl resistance, helping to maintain the pristine look of your vehicle. It repels dirt, pollen, and other contaminants, making your car easier to maintain and protecting it against UV rays. Additionally, it prevents contaminants like bug splat and tar from sticking to your car’s surface. Best of all, you can apply a ceramic coating in your own garage, saving you time and money compared to professional detailing services.
While ceramic coatings offer numerous benefits, there are also downsides to consider. Firstly, they won’t fix or hide existing flaws in your paintwork, so any imperfections will still be visible after application. Additionally, the prep work required for applying a ceramic coating can be extensive, especially if your paintwork is in poor condition. Furthermore, if you don’t maintain the coating properly, it will wear down faster, requiring reapplication sooner than expected. Lastly, mistakes during the application process can be difficult to rectify and may require a lot of work if not caught quickly, potentially leading to an uneven or unsatisfactory finish.
Pros:
- Showroom aesthetic
- High gloss
- Hydrophobic
- Smooth finish
- Scratch and swirl resistance
- Makes your car easier to clean by repelling dirt, pollen, and other contaminants
- Prevents contaminants like bug splat and tar from sticking
- Protects against UV rays
- Easy to maintain
- Can be applied in your own garage
Cons:
- Won’t fix of hide existing flaws
- Prepwork can be extensive depending on the condition of your paintwork
- If you don’t maintain them, they will wear down faster
- Mistakes may require a lot of work if you don’t catch them quickly
Ceramic Coating Alternatives
For those considering alternatives to ceramic coatings, options like synthetic wax, carnauba wax, and ceramic sprays exist. While these products offer some level of protection, they cannot match the longevity and durability of ceramic coatings.
When it comes to car wax options, synthetic wax is often the most affordable choice. However, its affordability comes at a cost – it typically lasts only 4-6 weeks. This means it requires more frequent reapplication, making it a higher-maintenance option. Carnauba wax, on the other hand, offers a step up in terms of shine compared to synthetic wax. While it provides a better finish, it still falls short of the durability offered by ceramic coatings.
However, ceramic coat alternatives aren’t all short term solutions. Take PPF for example.
Paint Protection Film (PPF) offers exceptional durability and longevity, providing long-lasting protection for your vehicle’s paint. PPF can also enhance the shine of your car, making it look incredibly glossy. However, one drawback of PPF is its lack of hydrophobic properties, which means it doesn’t repel water as effectively as some other coatings. To overcome this, many people choose to apply a ceramic coating on top of their PPF, giving it tight beading and rapid sheeting for easier cleaning. Another consideration with PPF is the installation process, which typically requires leaving your car with a professional to ensure proper application.
Best Ceramic Coatings for Your Car
So you’re on board. You see the benefits of a ceramic coating and you want in, but there are a lot of products on the market. How do we get you from sitting where you are now to standing in front of your car, gazing into it with a new sense of pride and ownership, while your neighbors think they can’t afford your auto detailer? Don’t worry. I’ve already gathered a list of the top five best ceramic coats. When I say best, I mean the best of the best. It doesn’t go up from here.
Nexgen Carbon Flex is a top-tier ceramic coating that promises to enhance your vehicle’s shine and protection for up to 6 years with proper maintenance. It stands out for its forgiving application process, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals. Unlike many other coatings, Carbon Flex can be applied in a wide range of climates and temperatures. It uses a unique carbon fluoride base, providing superior strength, chemical resistance, and hardness compared to other coatings. Despite its higher price point, Carbon Flex offers exceptional value for money, costing only $21.65 per year of protection. Overall, Nexgen Carbon Flex is a standout product in the ceramic coating market, delivering outstanding shine, protection, and longevity.
Adam’s Graphene Ceramic Coating Advanced is a popular choice among at-home detail enthusiasts, offering a clear, nanocrystalline coating that provides exceptional protection against weather, chemicals, and UV rays. With a 10H hardness rating, it boasts durability even in harsh conditions. The coating is infused with patent-pending Ceramic Glow Technology, aiding in application accuracy. Its ultra-high gloss finish, increased scratch resistance, and hydrophobic properties make it a standout product. While it requires meticulous application and an additional UV Tracer Technology kit, Adam’s Graphene Ceramic Coating Advanced offers impressive performance and durability.
Chemical Guys Carbon Force Ceramic Coating is a professional-grade product that promises durable protection, clear optical clarity, and excellent hydrophobic water beading. It claims up to 5 years of protection and can be layered for added thickness and scratch resistance. The product stands out for its hydrophobic water barrier, ease of application, and compatibility with other Chemical Guys products. While priced higher than some competitors, its professional-grade performance justifies the investment.
Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light is a professional-grade ceramic coating known for its impressive strength and longevity. It offers up to 5 years of protection and delivers a deep, bright shine on all exterior painted surfaces. While it may not be in the absolute top tier, it still provides protection and shine that surpasses many other products. The application process requires precision and adherence to specific instructions, which may be challenging for some users. Overall, Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light is a compelling option for those seeking professional-grade results.
Migliore Strata Ceramic Coating is a good choice for enthusiasts looking to enhance and protect their vehicles. It offers a glossy finish and a smooth surface that repels dirt and grime, making cleaning and maintenance easier. The coating’s hydrophobic properties ensure water beads up and rolls off, preventing water spots and maintaining the glossy finish. However, it’s important to note that Strata Ceramic Coating has a relatively short lifespan for its cost. While it provides a high level of protection and a sleek appearance, its durability may not meet the expectations of some users considering its price point.
Conclusion
The benefits of ceramic coatings are undeniable. From protecting against scratches and swirl marks to enhancing the gloss and depth of your car’s paintwork, ceramic coatings offer unmatched durability and performance. By investing in a ceramic coating like Nexgen Carbon Flex, car owners can enjoy a pristine finish and unparalleled protection for years to come.
Not using a ceramic coating can lead to various issues for car owners. Without protection, paint can fade, clear coats can peel, and rust can develop. Cars also become dirty more easily, requiring more effort to scrub clean. Scratches and swirl marks are more likely to occur, and water spots can mar the finish. Additionally, visibility while driving in the rain can be compromised due to water not beading off the surface effectively.
A well-maintained, shiny car not only enhances your personal image but also suggests a level of prosperity and an organized lifestyle. A ceramic coating can help achieve this by providing a high gloss finish that is incredibly shiny and reflective, akin to a showroom-level shine. Additionally, ceramic coatings offer hydrophobic properties, meaning water beads and rolls off the surface, making your car easier to clean and maintain. These coatings also provide scratch and swirl resistance, ensuring that your car looks brand new for longer periods. The impressive appearance of a well-maintained car can also give the impression of higher stature, and it’s not uncommon for neighbors to be impressed and even envious of such a pristine vehicle.
