You'd be hard-pressed to find a car expert who doesn't recommend ceramic coatings – and for good reason. Ceramic coatings' unique features mean they protect your vehicle and keep it looking freshly polished for years.

Whether you're a proud petrol-head or simply someone who wants to give their vehicle the TLC it deserves and keep it protected out on the road, this guide is for you. This blog explains everything from what ceramic coating is and why it's worth the investment to how it's applied. We'll also share some expert tips to help you maintain a sparkling finish.

What is a ceramic coating?

Ceramic coatings are liquid polymers that bond with your car's paint to create a semi-permanent protective layer. It's effectively an invisible shield for your vehicle, as the silicon dioxide (SiO2) works at a molecular level to create a hard layer over the paint. The coating chemically bonds with the vehicle's surface, making it much more resistant to dirt, water, and chemicals that deteriorate the finish. Water beads roll straight off, which leaves a streak-free finish and fewer opportunities for water spots.

Ceramic treatments are an increasingly popular choice for car owners, detailing professionals and car enthusiasts, as they're super durable and add an attractive shine. Two main types of ceramic coatings are available: DIY kits and professional-grade versions. DIY kits are available with easy application but tend to have much shorter durability, whilst professional-grade coatings require specialised equipment but are tougher and longer-lasting. They often require curing under infrared lighting to achieve the most optimal bonding and longevity in service.

Benefits of ceramic coatings

So, what can ceramic coating do for your car, and why should you consider it? Many advantages are associated with this treatment, but here are our top four reasons you should invest in it.

1. Unbeatable protection

Your car needs serious protection from the elements, and a ceramic coating is the perfect solution for this. Whether it's the harsh UV rays of the sun, salty wind in coastal locations, irritating bird droppings or even chemical stains, your car's paintwork will be much better off and less prone to damage if ceramic protection is applied. The layer acts as a barrier between the paint and the outside world, preventing oxidation, fading and other unwanted damage.

2 Long-lasting shine

If you want to preserve your vehicle's freshly waxed, glossy, sleek aesthetic, ceramic coatings have your back. They enhance the depth of colour and clarity of your paintwork, giving it a showroom-quality shine that lasts for years. You won't need to take it for frequent polishing or waxing services, as your car will have a permanently sparkling finish.

3. Hydrophobic qualities

One of the best features of the ceramic coating is how water behaves when it interacts with it. Due to the natural hydrophobic properties built into the formula, water beads up and rolls right off, removing dirt and grime with it. This makes cleaning your car 100 times easier, saving you all the time you'd have spent scrubbing dirt and water spots away.

4. Longevity

Depending on the quality of the ceramic coating you choose, you can expect anywhere from a 2-5 year lifespan, or in some cases up to 9 years when professional-grade products are used. This gives car owners complete peace of mind for many years to come, even with intensive use or challenging driving conditions.

Application process

It's not quite as easy as just painting it on and calling it a day – getting a ceramic coating application right requires thorough preparation and patience. Here are the key steps involved to make sure the coating binds correctly and lasts as long as possible.

1. Surface Preparation

This is one of the most essential steps. Before you start, you'll need to ensure your surface is spotless by washing the car thoroughly, removing any road tar or grime, and possibly even investing in a paint correction. Any imperfections will be sealed under the coating, so it's crucial to ensure your paintwork is in premium condition before the treatment.

2. Applying the coating

This is done in small sections using a crosshatch pattern to make sure there's even coverage across the full surface. It's applied with an applicator pad, and then each section is wiped down with a microfiber cloth shortly after to remove any excess product.

3. Curing

The coating needs time to cure, which can take between 12-48 hours. Here, the car must be protected from water, dust, and other contaminants. In professional settings, infrared lights are used to speed up the curing process and ensure optimal bonding.

One of the biggest mistakes we see is people applying too much product to the surface, which can lead to streaks or high spots. Not preparing your surface well enough or rushing the curing process will also lead to coating that doesn't last as long as it should. As with most things, patience is key!

Maintenance tips for ceramic coatings

Ceramic coatings are a low-maintenance option, but they're not completely maintenance-free. If you're looking to keep your coating in tip-top shape for as long as possible, follow these three tips:

1. Consistent washing

This is essential because, despite the dirt-repelling properties of a ceramic coating, you still need to wash it regularly to keep your car in good condition. Use a PH-neutral shampoo that won't break down the coating, and avoid any harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can degrade the ceramic layer. Ideally, you should wash your car every two weeks to remove contaminants.

2. Ceramic boosters

Ceramic booster sprays applied every 3-4 months can significantly extend the life of your investment with consistent use. They're designed to enhance the properties of the coating, keeping the hydrophobic effect and glossy finish intact for longer.

3. Avoid machine car washes

Drive-through car washes with spinning brushes are big red flags. Amongst other issues, they can scratch your coating and considerably reduce its lifespan. Opt for a touchless wash or professional hand washing to preserve the integrity of the coating.

Ceramic Coatings - Frequently Asked Questions

Can ceramic coatings be removed or reapplied?

Yes, they can be removed, but it will require a bit of effort. You can polish the coating off or use specific chemicals to strip it. However, reapplying the coating is not usually needed for several years.

Are ceramic coatings scratch-proof?

This is a misconception we hear a lot. Whilst they are highly resistant to minor swirl marks and scratches, ceramic coatings aren't 100% scratch-proof. You should still take care when washing to prevent damaging the surface.

How often should a ceramic coating be reapplied?

If you're using a high-quality coating you can expect to enjoy the benefits for several years at least. Some professional-grade coatings can last five years or more, and boosters can extend this even further.

Do I still need to wash my car with a ceramic coating?

Absolutely. The coating makes maintenance easier, but it doesn't eliminate the need for washing as you must wash your vehicle to prevent dirt build-up.

Final thoughts on ceramic coatings

Ceramic coatings are the perfect investment if you're seeking long-term protection, an aesthetically pleasing finish and easier maintenance for your car. They are durable and long-lasting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your paintwork and saving you the time and cost of constant wax and polishing.

If you're ready to invest in the ultimate protection for your vehicle, have a chat with a member of our team today to learn more about our services.

Our guide to ceramic coatings