If you have a ceramic coated vehicle, it is important to keep the coating in top shape. That means you will have to wash it and maintain it according to the manufacturer’s instructions in order to get the best results and longevity from the coating.
However, routine maintenance is not so straightforward. The is no one-size-fits-all solution. Therefore, some ceramic coatings may need annual maintenance and inspection by a professional detailer, especially for coatings that come with a warranty. Some other coatings do not have warranties. You can handle the inspection and maintenance yourself but if you don’t have the time or skill, we can do it for you.
Why ceramic coatings are important
Ceramic coating takes care of your vehicle’s exterior. It gives it a hydrophobic finish that allows water, tree sap, and dirt to slide off with little effort. It also adds quality, clarity, and depth to your paint.
The nano-technology of the protective coating causes your paint quality to last for many years and adds to the resale value of vehicles. It does not break down or wash away. Therefore, you don’t need to reapply every few months.
Ceramic coating with proper maintenance has numerous benefits. One of these benefits is less work during paint correction and detailing. The paint correction process fixes rock chips, scratches, and swirl marks. The detailing involves cleaning, buffing, and polishing.
What ceramic coatings can be applied to a vehicle
Ceramic Pro is a professional-grade ceramic coating that uses nano-technology. It adds a durable protective film to your car’s exterior paint. Coatings can from last two, five years, or a lifetime. There are various levels of ceramic coatings that can be applied to your vehicle such as:
- Ceramic Pro Gold package: is the top package, consisting of four layers of 9H with an extra application on exposed areas. They also apply 9H to plastic and the rims. It also protects the front side windows and the windshield with a layer of Ceramic Pro Rain. They top it all up with a layer of Pro Light.
- Ceramic Pro Silver package: The package is ideal for all car owners trying ceramic coating for the first time. It includes a five-year warranty which consists of a layer of 9H on the vehicle exterior. Additional 9H on plastic and rims. Protection for the windshield and the side windows at the front with Ceramic Pro Rain. They also top it all with a layer of Ceramic Pro Light.
- Ceramic Pro Bronze package: The bronze package includes a top to the bottom layer of Pro Light. They also add it to plastic and the rims. There is also Ceramic Pro Rain protection for the side-front windows and the windshield. The package has a two-year warranty.
- Ceramic Pro Sport package: It is an entry-level package including a layer of ceramic pro sport. It is ideal for all car owners new to car paint protection, and it comes with a six-month warranty.
How to maintain ceramic coating for your car
After choosing the best ceramic coating, now you need to maintain it. Maintenance takes commitment. However, it has multiple benefits.
The top two are it is cost-effective and adds durability to your car’s finish. So, how do you protect and maintain your car’s coating?
WASHING YOUR CAR
Washing your car every two weeks will keep your car clean. It will also remove any contaminants that may linger on the ceramic surface. Otherwise, the contaminants will soak up harmful UV rays and affect the hydrophobic properties of the coating. Washing also prevents spots and stains from forming on the exterior.
START WITH THE WHEELS
The reason is that they are the dirtiest part of your vehicle. Get the wheels out of the way first before cleaning the rest of the car.
USE THE TWO-BUCKET METHOD
When you clean your car, use the two-bucket method. It will reduce smear marks on the surface and give your vehicle a clean finish. Also, remember to start at the top and work your way downwards. It prevents the formation of spots and transferring heavy contaminants to the lower portions of your car. Do not forget to clean your interior daily or every other day. Even if your vehicle looks clean outside, the interior also needs care.
AVOID WASHING IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT
It prevents the formation of spots on the surface. You will also ensure that you get the optimal results when you clean your car in a heavily shaded area. If you do not have such an area, you can clean your car early in the morning or late evening. Ensure the sun is low on the horizon and the rays do not hit your car directly. Top Tip: If you cannot avoid the sunlight, consider getting a water filter to reduce spotting and smearing from hard water. We like to use the Race Glaze water filters which range from 7 to 25 litre filters that connect directly to a hosepipe.
HAVE YOUR CAR PROFESSIONALY DETAILED
You may think your car has hard water spots, but it may be a coating failure. Regular detailing will prevent that ugly look and remove any contaminants. You can keep a quick detailing product in your car. When using it, blot instead of wiping to minimize the effect of swirls and scratches in your finish.
