What is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a state-of-the-art car care product designed to protect and enhance the appearance of your vehicle’s paintwork. Known for its exceptional durability and gloss, ceramic coating creates a semi-permanent, transparent layer that bonds with the surface of your car. This high-performance liquid polymer not only protects the paint from various environmental hazards but also reduces the need for regular maintenance. Unlike traditional waxes and sealants, which sit on top of the paint and wear off within months, ceramic coatings chemically bond to the surface, creating a long-lasting shield that can endure for several years.
At iValet, we specialise in ceramic coating installations using industry-leading products such as Gtechniq Crystal Serum Ultra. This product is renowned for its superior protection, offering a long-lasting and high-gloss finish that keeps your car looking showroom-ready. In this blog, we will delve into the details of ceramic coating, exploring what it is, how it works, and why it has become a must-have for car owners who want to protect their investment.
How Does Ceramic Coating Work?
Ceramic coatings are composed primarily of silica, a natural material that is also used in glass and ceramics. When applied to your car’s paintwork, the liquid coating cures and bonds at a molecular level to create a tough, hydrophobic (water-repellent) barrier. This barrier is much harder and more durable than waxes and sealants, providing an enhanced level of protection from environmental contaminants, UV rays, chemicals, and bird droppings.
Once applied, the coating acts as a second layer of skin for your vehicle, providing a smooth, glossy finish while also filling in microscopic imperfections in the paint. This results in a sleeker, more flawless appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your car. More importantly, it protects the underlying paintwork from damage caused by daily wear and tear.
Benefits of Ceramic Coating
The benefits of ceramic coating are numerous, making it a worthwhile investment for those who are serious about maintaining their car’s appearance and value. Here are some key advantages:
1. Protection from Environmental Damage
One of the primary reasons to invest in ceramic coating is its ability to protect your vehicle from harmful environmental elements. Your car’s paint is constantly exposed to contaminants such as dirt, mud, grime, bird droppings, tree sap, and even acidic pollutants in the air. These substances can damage the clear coat and lead to paint oxidation or staining over time.
Ceramic coatings act as a strong shield against these contaminants, preventing them from bonding with the paint. The coating’s hydrophobic properties also make it easier to wash off these impurities without them causing any long-term damage.
2. UV Protection
Exposure to UV rays can cause your vehicle’s paint to fade or oxidize, giving it a dull, aged appearance. Ceramic coatings contain UV blockers that help protect the paint from the sun’s harmful rays. This means your car will maintain its vibrant colour and shine for a much longer period, even if it is regularly exposed to the sun.
3. Hydrophobic Properties
Ceramic coatings are known for their hydrophobic qualities, meaning they repel water effectively. When it rains, water will bead up and roll off the surface, carrying dirt and grime with it. This not only keeps your car cleaner for longer but also makes it easier to wash. With a ceramic-coated vehicle, routine cleaning becomes less frequent and requires less effort, saving you both time and money in the long run.
4. Enhanced Gloss and Shine
Another major benefit of ceramic coatings is the enhanced gloss they offer. By forming a smooth, glass-like layer on the surface of your vehicle, ceramic coatings increase the depth and clarity of the paint. The result is a highly reflective, wet-look finish that makes your car stand out, whether it’s parked or on the road.
5. Scratch Resistance
While ceramic coatings do not make your car completely immune to scratches, they do provide a significant level of resistance. The hardness of the coating helps to prevent minor scratches and swirl marks that often occur during washing or daily use. For deeper scratches, ceramic coatings can act as a sacrificial layer, protecting the clear coat beneath it.
6. Long-Lasting Durability
Perhaps the most appealing feature of ceramic coatings is their long-lasting durability. Unlike wax, which typically lasts only a few months, ceramic coatings can last several years with proper maintenance. High-end coatings like Gtechniq Crystal Serum Ultra can provide up to nine years of protection. This longevity makes ceramic coatings a cost-effective solution for car owners who want to reduce the frequency of waxing and detailing.
The Application Process
Applying ceramic coating is a highly detailed and delicate process that requires expertise and precision. At iValet, we follow a meticulous procedure to ensure the best possible results for your vehicle.
1. Paint Correction: Before applying the ceramic coating, the car’s paint must be thoroughly cleaned and corrected. This involves removing any dirt, debris, and contaminants from the surface, followed by paint correction techniques such as machine polishing to eliminate swirl marks, minor scratches, and imperfections.
2. Application: Once the paint is corrected, the ceramic coating is applied in thin layers. The coating bonds with the clear coat of your vehicle, creating a protective layer that is resistant to contaminants and oxidation.
3. Curing: After application, the ceramic coating needs time to cure. This process allows the coating to harden and form a strong bond with the surface. Depending on the product used, this curing period can take anywhere from 12 to 48 hours.
Common Misconceptions About Ceramic Coating
There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding ceramic coatings, and it’s important to address them to ensure you have a clear understanding of what they can and cannot do.
- Ceramic Coating is Completely Scratch Resistant : While ceramic coatings provide excellent protection against environmental contaminants and minor scratches, they are not invincible. Deep scratches, rock chips, or heavy impact damage can still affect the underlying paint.
- You Never Need to Wash Your Car Again: Ceramic coatings make it easier to clean your car, but they don’t eliminate the need for regular washing. The hydrophobic properties help keep dirt and grime off the surface, but routine maintenance is still required to keep the coating in top condition.
- Ceramic Coating is a DIY Job: While there are DIY ceramic coating kits available, achieving professional results requires expertise, professional techniques and proper tools, for application. It is always recommended to have the coating applied by trained professionals like the team at iValet.
Why Choose iValet for Ceramic Coating?
At iValet, we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality ceramic coating services, using only the best products in the industry. As Gtechniq Accredited Installers, we have the training and expertise to ensure that your car receives the care and attention it deserves. Whether you’re looking to protect a new car or rejuvenate an older vehicle, our ceramic coating packages provide long-lasting, durable protection that will keep your car looking its best for years to come.
Our team is meticulous in every aspect of the application process, ensuring that every inch of your vehicle is properly coated. We also offer free aftercare advice, helping you maintain the pristine condition of your car and extend the life of your ceramic coating. Contact us today to find out more about our ceramic coating packages and how we can help protect your investment.
Ceramic coating is an excellent way to protect your vehicle’s paintwork and preserve its appearance over time. From its hydrophobic properties to its scratch resistance and enhanced gloss, ceramic coatings offer a range of benefits that make them a smart investment for any car owner. If you want to keep your car looking newer for longer with minimal maintenance, ceramic coating is the way to go. Reach out to iValet today and let us help you achieve the ultimate protection and shine for your vehicle.