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Ceramic Coating FAQs
Looking for some more information on Ceramic Coating? This FAQ page was created to answer some of the more common questions I recieve. If you still have questions or concerns, please send me an email or call/text 916-470-3032.
Q. Why does it cost so much wal-mart sells ceramic coat in a spray bottle for cheap?
Well true ceramic coat comes in a very small vial usually 60-120ml and not a spray bottle.
The benefits from a true ceramic coating is amazing (read about it on my ceramic coating page) the small benefits you get from a spray on ceramic product is not even a percentage of what you get from a true coating.
Product companies have turned to using the word ceramic by adding very little polymer to these spray on products and being able to fool the unaware consumer into thinking they now have a ceramic coated vehicle when it truly is only a spray on wax.
Q. How long does ceramic coating last?
Typically depending on which product we use 3-5 years. All dependent on your upkeep and maintenance of the coating after it is finished.
A coated car that goes 6-7 months in-between washes will see ceramic degradation much quicker than one that is maintained.
For this I recommend scheduling at least a monthly premium hand wash with me to properly maintain your coating.
Q. Can I use any products to wash my ceramic coated car?
Big no here. With a true ceramic coating no matter how dirty your car is you shouldn't ever have the need for aggressive cleaners.
Non pH balanced car soaps can degrade and reduce the ceramic coatings life especially really strong acids and degreasers that are found in some car care products.
To be safe I recommend pH neutral car soaps and shampoos with a wax or ceramic additive infused.
Q. Can my car still get rock chips with a ceramic coat?
Yes, ceramic coating helps to some extent especially from brush damage (think off road truck) and many scratches, but you can still get rock chips. Ceramic coating does add a level of protection though so you may have less than you would without it.
The primary goal of ceramic coating is to keep the paint from degrading and adding a sacrificial layer to the exterior to take most of the wear from elements i.e. heat, sun, rain, dirt, etc. and greatly expand the life span of your car, SUV, or trucks paint.
Q. Can I ceramic coat without paint correction?
Yes, but I do not recommend it. Even my own personal vehicles bought brand new off the lot are paint corrected before coating.
Any defects will be highlighted from the extreme gloss of the ceramic coat and will be much more noticeable then they currently are.
Q. Can I apply ceramic coating myself?
Yes you can, but for best results a professional is key for this one.
Besides the extreme prep and surface decontamination prior to actually starting to coat there are other things that must be focused on that can lead to poor results if done wrong.
One of the most common inexperienced mistakes I see is vehicles being left with high spots. If the coating is not properly leveled and evenly distributed once cured these high spots will look like streaks in your paint and are impossible to fix without aggressive sanding on the paint to remove the coating.
Can I drive my car right after being coated?
It is best to allow your ceramic coating to cure for 24 hours before driving to achieve the best long term performance from the coating.
Avoid water from rain or washing for 7 days.
Keep the car garaged if possible for 48 hours.
Q. What are the benefits of ceramic coating?
You gain a strong defense for your vehicles clear coat from UV rays, oxidation, chemical and organic matter staining, and much easier cleaning.
Ceramic coating creates a barrier of protection above your clear coat that repels water, dirt, bird droppings etc. Making all washes a breeze after application.