Environmental factors and daily use can take a toll on your car’s outer appearance over the years.
Accidents also happen.
Even a light bump against your car from a trolley or your kid’s bike could result in paint-related damage. Those who are concerned about preserving the aesthetics of their car should consider methods that help them add extra protection.
Ceramic coatings have become a popular option. These coatings are applied to give more protection against daily use.
The coating does not interfere with the car's layer of paint but does help to protect against scratches, stains, and even paint chips. We help you understand what ceramic coating is for cars and whether this is a good option for you.
A ceramic coating for cars is a long-term solution that helps with both protection and aesthetics.
The application of the coating can be an effective way of reducing swirls and chips on paint and also provides added convenience in the cleaning process. The primary goal of the ceramic coating is to protect the paint job on your car.
A chemical polymer solution is generally used in the formulation of a ceramic coating.
The process of applying the coating does take some time, as it is usually done by hand. This helps to provide better coverage and avoids errors or spots that are not effectively covered.
As the ceramic coating is applied to the exterior of the car, the formula starts to blend with the existing layer of paint.
Through this blending process, a hydrophobic layer is created on the car’s exterior surface.
It should be noted that even though the coating is “blended” with the paint on the car, it does not mean the factory paint job will be affected in the process.
In fact, the process generally tends to preserve the factory paint - when your car suffers a scratch, it affects this new layer instead of directly impacting the paint underneath.
In some cases, you may find that people refer to this as a nano-ceramic coating instead. There are different types of coatings used in the process. Some only last for a certain period of time. Other options may last a lifetime if you ensure you take proper care of your car’s exterior.
Also Read: How to Apply Ceramic Coating
The term “ceramic coating” can refer to a number of substances that are applied on top of your car’s factory paint job.
With this in mind, it is important to consider the different types of ceramic coating car options that are available.
By having an understanding of these types, you have the ability to determine the most suitable option for your car - based on your preferences, needs, and budget.
Nano-coatings have become quite a popular option. These are often done professionally, as a very specific method is used to apply nano-coating to your car.
A combination of different substances is used in the process, which forms a proprietary blend. Solvents, TiO2, and SiO2, are combined into a single substance to create the formula used in nano-coating.
Some of the major features offered by a nano-coating include:
Teflon sprays are relatively common among people who want to apply the ceramic coating themselves.
Many seem to classify a Teflon spray used as a ceramic coating as a very basic entry compared to other options, such as a nano-coating.
Still, they can be useful and have been around for a long time. This is a relatively common option that comes up when someone asks what ceramic coating is for cars.
There are two main benefits associated with Teflon sprays.
This includes its ability to provide effective protection against heat - making it a great option for adding UV protection to your car’s exterior.
The second factor is that the spray creates a non-stick surface.
It should be noted that, even though often referred to as Teflon sprays, the term “Teflon” is a brand name. A specific chemical is used in these sprays - known as polytetrafluoroethylene.
This compound is a type of synthetic fluoropolymer that is derived from the chemical tetrafluoroethylene. Sometimes, these formulas are also referred to as a PTFE solution.
While the use of polytetrafluoroethylene can add protection to your car, it does not become as hard as some of the other formulas used for ceramic coatings.
The benefit is that the formula dries quickly, is easy to apply, and wipes off without any problems. This means cleaning a vehicle afterward is quick and easy.
The solution may also help to enhance and maintain the overall appearance of your car, should the factory paint have a glossy finish. Furthermore, the formula can be applied to both your car’s paint job and windows.
Another good option is known as SiO2 coatings. These are sometimes called SiO2 Boost Sprays too. A combination of polymers generally forms the basis for these solutions. In addition to the polymers, silicon dioxide is also used.
Some coatings may also be infused with a chemical called titanium dioxide, which further helps to strengthen the bond and protect your car.
The SiO2 coating is known to be an excellent choice when it comes to boosting your car’s appearance. Many people prefer this coating when they have a gloss paint job on their car.
The gloss is intensified when the coating is applied. Thus the reason why some refer to it as the best ceramic coating for cars.
Apart from the primary ingredients, SiO2 coatings will often also contain nanotechnology. This infusion allows imperfections on a vehicle’s paint to be penetrated.
Nanotechnology works on even microscopic problems that are found on the car’s painted surface. By filling these microscopic openings in paint, the car’s exterior is strengthened in the process.
This type of ceramic coating will often be combined with others. SiO2 forms the base layer for the coating, followed by nano-coating. Some people also prefer to use a standard Teflon spray once the SiO2 layer has dried.
When considering ceramic coating car costs, there are a few things to take into consideration. Many people ask if ceramic coating worth it - but this is a question that one needs to determine by knowing the value of the process.
First, understand that this will be a long-term investment. Instead of providing a short-term solution, such as what you get from wax, you are protecting your vehicle for years to come.
Still, make sure you understand the costs that are involved, as it can be expensive depending on the solution you choose.
Before determining the costs, you should understand whether you want to get your vehicle coated professionally or do it yourself.
Professional ceramic coatings tend to use advanced formulas that can offer superior protection, but they can also be very costly. With a DIY solution, you can apply the coating yourself and pay a lower fee in the process.
When done professionally, you will need to pay for the chemical solution used, as well as the labor for the applicator. The professional will usually use the best ceramic coating for cars.
This, however, also means the ceramic coating car cost will likely be greater. The specific price depends on the size of your car, the type of ceramic coating used, and the individual who will perform the application.
It is generally advised to expect a fee of £400. In some cases, the costs can go up to £900 or even more.
Do your homework to find a good deal - but avoid paying too little when the coating is done by professionals. In these cases, the company may not use the appropriate coating and could end up providing a solution that won’t offer your vehicle the expected protection and maintenance.
A DIY solution can be very handy if you do not want to spend too much. This reduces the ceramic coating car cost that you will have to pay.
The only costs you have when applying the coating yourself would be the products that need to be purchased. There are different options available, including a number of ceramic coating kits that come with multiple solutions.
These solutions are applied in layers or combined in a specific manner, ultimately creating a more durable solution that effectively protects against UV exposure, scratches, and more.
Most kits are priced at around £150. At this price, you can save a significant amount of money while still being able to apply a protective coating to your car's exterior.
There are several advantages that you can expect when choosing a ceramic coating for your car. The specific benefits generally depend on the type of coating that you are using.
For best results, it is important to ensure the coating has an appropriate concentration of the primary ingredients.
Too much or too little can cause problems. A SiO2 coating, for example, should have a concentration between 51% and 83%.
Here are a few of the most important benefits associated with a ceramic coating:
While the benefits of a ceramic coating are appealing, we need to consider both sides of this process.
There are a few possible drawbacks that you should keep in mind, such as the following:
No matter how hard we try, the paint layer on cars tends to wear out, fade, and suffer damage over time.
For added protection, considering the application of a ceramic coating can definitely be a good option. These coatings help to retain that brand new look of your vehicle for longer, makes the process of cleaning the exterior of the vehicle easier, and provides additional benefits.
If you’re ready to get started with a ceramic coating for your car, then head over to our ceramic coating products. JennyChem offers a wide range of products that can help you protect your car with a ceramic layer.
