Ceramic Coating Frequently Asked Questions

We want you to be 100% happy and informed with your (Ceramic Coating) so we have assembled this Q & A to help you understand ceramic coatings in a little more depth. If you require any further information please let us know and we will be pleased to advise.

What is a ceramic coating?

Ceramic coatings are extremely durable vehicle protection systems. Depending on the coating used they are suitable for use on paintwork, wheels, glass and plastic trim.

The basic chemical composition of a ceramic coating is Silicon Dioxide (SiO2). Ceramic coatings may also be referred to as quartz or glass coatings.

Why Ceramic Coat?

It’s a good investment to permanently protect the exterior from deteriorating prematurely and maintain a higher resale value. Less maintenance due to the slickness of the coating won’t allow dirt, brake dust and road tar to stick to your paint, wheels or glass nearly as much making cleaning your vehicle a much more enjoyable and effortless process. Not to mention you will see ultimate gloss and colour depth not comparable to anything else. Properly maintained vehicles will shine like new for many years to come.

How is the coating applied?

Coating are carefully applied by certified applicator’s as a liquid one panel at a time covering the exterior painted surfaces. The paintwork is firstly decontaminated and prepared to ensure the coating achieves a good bond to the paintwork.

What is your recommended maintenance regime?

We advise that every 12 months the vehicle is thoroughly decontaminated by the removal of any road tar, iron, tree sap and industrial fallout deposits that may have accumulated. Following that we will apply an SIO2 sealant to rejuvenate the ceramic coating and enhance its hydrophobic properties.

Our Premium Mini Detail package slightly reworked with a different finishing product that contains high SiO2 content sealant is ideal for this.

Are there different types of ceramic coatings?

There are many products available on the market. The principle differences are the amount of SiO2) content in the product. Some have levels as low as 5% as typically found in maintenance sprays. Others have as much as 70%. As a general rule the higher the level of SiO2 the more durable the product will be. Our New Car Detail (Ceramic) uses products with very high levels of SiO2 content.

How long do they last?

This will depend on the type of coating and the environment in which the car is driven and stored. There will also be a dependency on how well the coating is maintained. Four instance Ceramic Pro forms a highly durable bond with the paintwork which can last a number of years on a well maintained car.

Ceramic Pro is resistant to chemicals so it will not be washed away by strong car wash shampoos and cleaning chemicals. However aggressive car washing with brushes or automatic car washes will reduce the lifespan of the product. We recommend only washing your car with microfibre cloths.

As with any paintwork treatment good regular maintenance is required for the best results and longevity of the product.

Ceramic Coatings can be removed by abrasion such as machine polishing, cutting compounds or cut and polish. Neglect such as failure to wash the vehicle regularly (weekly or fortnightly) can also reduce the performance and durability of the product.

What do they do?

These very resilient coatings will give superior protection against light surface scratching caused by poor washing. Harmful UV rays, graffiti, dirt build up. premature ageing and oxidation, weathering, bird droppings, brake dust, and even help prevent acid rain stain. Your treated car will not only be easier to clean but it will also stay clean longer do you to it’s super hydrophobic properties. Ceramic coating are second to none when it comes to giving your paint that deep rich reflective gloss and shine.

How do I keep the car clean in the meantime?

A careful and regular washing regime using a PH neutral shampoo and/or hydrophobic spray will keep your car looking pristine. We can supply these products directly or point you in the direction of online retailers. The cost to you is the same either way. Also avoid letting your vehicle air dry always use quality microfibre to dry.

Are ceramic coatings a miracle ‘fire and forget’ product?

Absolutely not, despite being very durable they still need maintaining. Beware of the hype that comes with many car treatment systems (ceramic and dealership applied treatments) that promise ‘no polishing’ and ‘lifetime protection with no maintenance as part of the deal.

We have worked on countless vehicles with various coating systems applied and have yet to find any that meet the often extravagant claims made by the industry. It is simply not possible to coat a car, then treat it to the occasional wash, and for it to remain glossy and contaminant free several years down the road.

How do ceramic coatings compare against dealership applied sealants?

They are much more durable in almost every aspect of protection and visually appear to have a much higher gloss characteristic.

How do they work?

Waxes and many paint sealants sit on the applied surface. Ceramic coatings work by bonding a thin layer of product directly to your car’s paintwork creating a new substrate. Once bonded the product is much harder to remove than traditional products and is, therefore, more durable.

I’ve had my car treated, is there anything to avoid?

Avoid roller brush car washes and wiping your car clean when it’s dry. Always have a lubricant and clean microfibre or wash mitt.

Anything else I need to know?

Ceramic coatings need to cure for around 24 hours before being exposed to rain. Your car will need to be garaged overnight unless the weather forecast is for no rain.

No garage or carport? We can apply Ceramic Pro Sport!