If you are one among those vehicle owners who are curious about what ceramic coating is all about and whether is it worth it for one’s vehicle, then you are on the right article. Ceramic coating is one of the best vehicle protective coatings and market for it speaks for itself, valued at USD 11.16 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 19.20 billion by 2030. But what is ceramic coating, and why is everyone shifting away from wax protection?

Here is the complete guide where we will discuss everything that you need to know regarding ceramic coating: how it works, the price tag, the advantages, and whether it is worth the price for your ride.

How Ceramic Coating Works

Ceramic coating is a polymer that is sprayed over the exterior body surfaces of a car that adheres chemically with the original finish and forms a coat far beyond what ordinary wax and sealant can achieve. But how does ceramic coating actually work at the molecular level?

The chemistry for the ceramic coat is a composition consisting of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂). Upon application, the coat bonds semi-permanently with the clear finish on your vehicle and forms an ultra-strong protective finish three times harder and more resistant compared to the usual clear coat.

Nano-level protection film created by ceramic coating occupies the micro-pore inside your paint and forms an ultra-smooth surface resistant to dirt, contaminants, and water. This is how ceramic coating has hydrophobic properties compared with the conventional protection methods.

Want to learn about other protective options for your car? Check out our guide on what is PPF for cars to understand how Paint Protection Film compares to ceramic coating.

Benefits of Ceramic Coating

Understanding what ceramic coating is means knowing the many advantages it has over ordinary protection. 

UV Protection3

Ceramic coating is like a sunblock for your vehicle paint because it absorbs harmful UV rays responsible for fading and oxidation. With the EPA estimation that road salt is accountable for $5 billion worth of vehicle repairs, protecting your vehicle against the damages of the elements has never been more important.

Speaking of protection from elements, don’t forget to learn how to prepare your car for winter to ensure year-round vehicle protection.

Improved Scratch Resistance

While ceramic coating is not protecting against larger scratches or rock damage, it stops small scratches, swirl marks, and other paint damage.

Enhanced Hydrophobic Properties

What is most impressive with ceramic coating is how waterproof it is. Water just rolls off the surface without any kind of spots or streaks. This is the same with grime, dirt, and mud.

Convenient Cleaning and Maintenance

When the surface is highly polished, thanks to ceramic coating, filth, bird droppings, and insects won’t stick to the car. A soft wipe or rinse is the only thing you’ll need for the car to stay gunk-free, which keeps maintenance time low.

For tough stains that might occur before coating, check out our detailed guide on how to remove stains from car seats to get your vehicle looking pristine before applying ceramic coating.

Improved Gloss and Shine

The ceramic coat produces a shiny, mirror finish, making your ride more beautiful. The coat promotes the color and beauty of the paint so that your ride looks new and shiny.

Long-Term Protection

Ceramic coating done by professionals usually lasts for 5-10 years with good care, so ceramic coating is a long-term investment for your car to look new and have the highest resale value.

Experience the Nathan’s Detailing difference! Our professional ceramic coating services come with industry-leading warranties and expert application. Schedule your appointment today to see why we’re the trusted choice for ceramic coating.

Limitations of Ceramic Coating

Whereas ceramic coating is excellent protection, you must understand what it cannot do:

Not Scratch or Rock Chip Resistant

Ceramic coating is good at scratch protection but is not going to do everything. Big impacts, sharp scratches, and chip damage from rocks still could happen and possibly require paint correction.

Does Not Get Rid of All Maintenance

While ceramic coating is simple to clean, it is never a guarantee the car is clean for life. You still should wash it regularly and care for the coating for it to function well.

Cannot fix existing paint damage

Ceramic coating should not be used for covering and filling scratches, swirls, and paint deficiencies. All these must be done with paint correction service before applying the coating.

DIY vs. Professional Ceramic Coatings

When you are thinking of applying ceramic coating on your vehicle, you are left with DIY or commercial installations.

Why choose professional installation? At Nathan’s Detailing, we use only premium-grade ceramic coatings and have the expertise to ensure flawless application. Get a professional assessment of your vehicle’s needs today!

Types of Ceramic Coatings

Understanding the options you have with ceramic coatings guides you toward making a more informed choice:

Consumer-Level (DIY Kits)

DIY kits include consumer-quality ceramic coating, which is worth between $75 and $150. Even though they are cheaper, they only offer 6 months to 2 years of protection.

Professional-Grade Coatings

Professional-grade ceramic coatings are far more efficient and durable than homemade coatings. They last for 3 to 10 years and are supported by warranties.

Nano-Ceramic Coatings

Advanced ceramic coat technologies include nanoparticles for a smoother, more long-lasting protective coat. These are the ultimate high-performance coatings with the longest life cycle.

Maintenance After Ceramic Coating

Regular maintenance is vital if you want your ceramic coat to last longer:

Cleaning methods

• Follow the two-bucket technique and use good-quality car shampoo.
• Avoid automatic car washes with brushes.
• Use microfiber towels or washing mitts
• Rinse quickly before washing

Boost Sprays

Use ceramic coating maintenance sprays because they can restore water repellency and expand coating life. Use them once or twice a year for best results.

Do’s and don’ts

 

Should You Wax after Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coatings do not need standard wax. The ceramic coat is more durable, and sometimes the wax even negates the water-repellent qualities.

Cost of Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coating prices significantly differ depending on:

Professional Installation Pricing

• Beginning ceramic coating professional: $500 to $1,000
• Mid-range applications: $1,500 to $3,000
• Premium multi-layer systems: $3,000 to $5,000+
• 2-year coatings with exterior detail: $400-$600

DIY Alternatives

• Basic DIY kits: $75 to $150
• High-performance DIY product: ~$150 per 30 ml bottle

Is Ceramic Coat Worth Investing In?

Remember that the majority of ceramic coating treatments last 2 to 5 years with correct maintenance, and the long-term cost savings speak for themselves. Professional installations also tend to come with superior durability and are warranted.

The high-performance ceramic coating market is projected to increase from $10.5 billion in 2024 to $13.9 billion by 2029, indicating strong consumer confidence in this technology.

Get transparent pricing with no surprises! Nathan’s Detailing offers competitive ceramic coating packages with detailed quotes. Request your free estimate and discover the best value for your investment.

FAQs About Ceramic Coating

Does ceramic coating hide scratches?

Ceramic coats do not conceal existing scratches but might prevent future scratches. Any existing paint defects should be corrected prior to the coat.

Ceramic coat Can it be done in one day?

Commercial ceramic coating installation usually takes 1-3 days depending on the state of the car and what coat system is being applied.

How long before I can drive or wash my car?

Almost all ceramic coating sealers need 24-48 hours of cure time prior to water contact. Depending on the product you are using, the installer should provide specific instructions.

Can you apply ceramic coating over wheels, PPF, or previously waxed cars?

Ceramic coats may also be installed on top of tires and on Paint Protection Film (PPF). However, previously waxed paint has to be decontaminated completely before bonding.

What’s the Verdict?

Thus, what is ceramic coating, and is it worth it? Industry data as well as technical reviews state that ceramic coating highlights significant advancement in car protection technology. With over 1,300+ happy customers and over 20+ years of experience, we consistently recommend ceramic coating for car owners who are serious about their vehicle’s long-term protection.

Ceramic coating is ideal for:

• Normal cars exposed to severe climatic conditions
• Car owners looking to reduce time for maintenance
• Car owners looking for maximum paint protection
• Anyone looking to keep a vehicle’s value intact

With excellent protection, superior aesthetic value, and long-term lifetime durability, ceramic coating is a worthwhile investment for a typical car owner. Although the initial cost is steep, prevention against nature-related accidents makes ceramic coating a reasonable investment.

Ready to get your vehicle protected with professional ceramic coating? Contact Nathan’s Detailing today to learn more about XPEL Fusion Plus ceramic coating services and schedule your consultation.

 With time-proven results and professionally applied coatings, we are here to assist you in making the smart choice for your ride.