For many of us, their appearance in cars is just part of the ownership experience. On the other hand, you're an avid driver who is obsessive about every little detail as a lessee determined on avoiding excess wear-and-tear charges or you're among the increasing number of folks who seldom drive due to the advent of a work-from-home plan. Where you're on the spectrum will dictate the amount of time and money you're willing to spend, and whether or not a high-priced ceramic coating is worth the investment.

What is Ceramic Coating?

To comprehend ceramic coatings, it's helpful to begin by examining the most common paint-protection products.

Wax is a natural and most affordable one, with a range of varieties, from an old-fashioned paste to an easy spray. For many years, "waxing" a car has been a staple of keeping it shiny and new. Unfortunately, wax isn't that durable and should be used several times per year. There are some companies that claim it is, however, environmental pollutants and even harsh soap may easily penetrate that wax barrier.

Sealants, however, are chemically-based and made to last several months. This means that they can be easily applied, however, they do not typically have the same shine that one would get from a premium wax.

The two are outmatched by a ceramic coating. This silica-based liquid polymer is applied by hand and cured to form a protective layer that is properly maintained and is effective for many years.

Advantages of Ceramic Coating

Long-lasting protection is the main reason why people choose the ceramic coating Singapore in place of other choices. A solid shell and ceramic coating will prevent water dirt, road grime bird droppings, and other chemicals from touching and harming the paint. Instead, they'll fall right off by giving it a quick rinse.

That brings us to a word that is fascinating: hydrophobic. In general, anything that's "phobic" has a negative connotation, but in this instance, it's all positive. A ceramic coating creates an extremely hydrophobic surface that disperses water, which means dirt and mineral deposits are less likely to harm the paint surface.

What Ceramic Coating Won't Do

Unfortunately, ceramic coatings are not ideal for everyone due to high costs. Unlike wax, for example, it is a ceramic coating that can be adhered to and bonds with the car's paint and is not able to be removed and then reapplied. The process is more akin to applying stain to a piece of wood, where the application should be smooth, consistent, and, for the best results done by a knowledgeable professional. If there is a mistake or something touches the surface before it has fully cured the entire area of the car needs to be wet sanded, and the coating is reapplied.

Although the price of ceramic coating kits can be lower than $100, the proper preparation can result in this being an expensive endeavor. Because the coating will magnify imperfections, it is necessary to first polish the paint to remove any scratches, swirls or discolouration. Experts suggest that's the case for brand-new cars fresh off a dealer's lot because they're likely to be suffering from minor scratch marks from going through an automatic car wash.

With this in mind, it is likely that you will be surprised to learn that a professional may cost more than $1,000 for applying a ceramic coating to your vehicle. We wouldn't advise doing a typical DIY attempt on the value of a vehicle.

Perhaps more significant than the cost of a ceramic coating is the unrealistic expectations many people have regarding the outcome. Ceramic coatings are unbeatable in protection, but your car isn't going to suddenly have an impassable layer of protection. Stones may still scratch your paint, unintentional shopping carts will completely scratch your car's fender and tree sap that's left to bake onto the hood will make you laugh at the price of your silica-based plastic.

Furthermore, you must ensure the longevity of the ceramic coating by ensuring that you use a brush for frequent washes (to avoid swirls and scratches) and occasional treatments with a particular spray, which owners can perform themselves.