How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last on a Car?
A ceramic coating is a type of finish applied to the exterior of a car. This finish is designed to protect the car from a variety of damaging factors. Some of these factors include road conditions and weather conditions. These factors can all affect the coating’s durability. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your vehicle’s exterior from these factors.
Durability
The benefits of ceramic coatings on cars are obvious. These layers of protection make a car look brand new and more durable. It also makes cleaning easier. If applied properly, ceramic coatings can last for many years. They also resist UV rays and other harmful environmental factors. These benefits are great news for drivers who want to protect their cars.
While ceramic coatings on cars are supposed to increase the durability of your car, proper care is vital to the coating’s longevity. To maintain a new look and maximize the life of your new coating, you should wash your car regularly using safe chemicals. Avoid using wax or soap. Also, use a non-abrasive car shampoo. Deep cleaning is recommended every six months.
Cost
The cost of getting a ceramic coating applied to a car varies depending on how durable the product is. It can cost up to $1000, but most people will spend around $3,000 for a professional ceramic coating application. The installation process generally takes about 36 hours to complete and requires a specialized team. The labor required is relatively inexpensive, at around eighty-five dollars per hour.
Before a ceramic coating can be applied, a vehicle must be perfectly clean. The paintwork must be free from any flaws, which is easier to do on a pale car than on a dark one. Also, the paint on a dark car requires more polishing than on a pale car. The process can take 20 to 30 hours and involves many steps, including pre-washing, hand washing, and wiping down the panels. Then, the technician will polish and correct areas of the paint to prepare them for the ceramic coating.
Maintenance
If you want the ceramic coating on your car to last for a long time, there are some simple things you can do to ensure it looks great and is scratch-resistant. Using the correct products, you can extend the life of the coating and improve its gloss. If done properly, these simple techniques will save you time and money.
First, make sure the ceramic coating is dry. The best way to do this is to use a microfiber towel. This will allow the glazing material to absorb the water and prevent it from soaking in the material. Secondly, avoid aggressive cleaning products or excessive force. You should also remove bird droppings immediately. The stain will disintegrate over a few days, but you should avoid using harsh cleaning products, as they may contain solvents or abrasives. Aftercare products, such as System X Renew, are highly recommended for maintaining your ceramic coating.
Road and weather conditions
Once applied, the ceramic coating should be left out of the sun and rain. After completing the application, you should let your car sit for one to two days to allow the coating to cure. For best results, you should apply two or four coats. It is also recommended that you park your car in a garage or shaded area while the coating dries. This is to avoid contamination and moisture that will affect the finish.
The ceramic coating that is applied to your car can last up to five years. It can also help protect against minor scratches and keying. It also helps water roll off the surface of your car. However, some areas of your car are more prone to road salt, making it more difficult for the coating to stay intact.
Warranty
There are a variety of advantages of a ceramic coating. These benefits include a more durable coating and reduced maintenance. The average ceramic coating lasts several years. If you plan to buy a new ceramic coating for your car, choose a high-quality product to save on maintenance. Though a higher-quality product will cost more upfront, it will pay off in the long run. To protect your new coating, you should have it inspected at least once a year. A professional installer will check for any imperfections or budding.
When you have a ceramic coating applied to your car, you’ll want to make sure that it complies with the warranty requirements. If it’s applied incorrectly, you could be voiding the warranty. If you use a high-quality ceramic coating product, your warranty should be valid for two years.