Ceramic coating is fast becoming the go-to option for people who want to preserve the paintwork of their vehicles. Many drivers and car enthusiasts swear by the efficacy of this solution for the maintenance of the pristine appearance of their cars.
The market for ceramic coating is growing by leaps and bounds in the UK, with many options that promise to have a vehicle looking pristine for a long time. However, due to the proliferation of so many products in the market, it is a bit confusing for one to make the best choice of product and service to use.
In this article, therefore, we will discuss some basics about this solution and factors to consider as you shop for the best ceramic coating to use for your car in the UK.
What is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is used to cover the exterior (body) of a car. This coating chemically adheres to a vehicle’s paintwork and creates a film of protection that lasts longer than traditional sealants and wax jobs. Upon application, this coating forms a permanent or semi-permanent bond with the paintwork of the car. This bond provides durable protection against UV rays, contaminants from the environment, and minor scratches from daily use.
Benefits of Ceramic Coating
There are many benefits to applying this solution to your car and they are listed and explained briefly below:-
- Protection from Environmental Damage – The weather in the UK is not always predictable; therefore, snow, rain, and UV rays all pose different types of threats to the paintwork of your car. With a ceramic coating, you can rest assured that your vehicle is protected from inclement weather and other environmental contaminants.
- Enhanced Aesthetics – The first thing you will notice with this solution is that your car will come out with a deep, glossy finish. The solution enhances your car’s aesthetics and keeps it shiny for a longer duration than with traditional waxes and sealants.
- Ease of Cleaning– With ceramic coating, your car is easier to clean because of the water-repellent surface that it creates. This surface makes it difficult for dirt to stick therefore reducing the effort and time required for cleaning your car.
- Durable Protection–Ceramic coating lasts for a year, unlike sealants and waxes that you may have to reapply after some months. This durability makes it a cost-effective option for the maintenance of the aesthetics of your car. Click here for tips on how to protect your car from inclement weather.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ceramic Coating
There are many factors to consider when choosing a ceramic coating and we will discuss some of them below:-
Type
When considering this solution, you need to consider the type; this entails knowing whether it is a professional or consumer-grade product. Just as the name implies, professional-grade products requirea professional application and are often more effective and durable than consumer-grade options. However, if you prefer to DIY, you can still get premium quality products that provide excellent protection.
Another factor to know in this regard is the SiO2 Content of the product. SiO2 means Silicon dioxide and the percentage contained in a ceramic coating is an important factor that determines its effectiveness. So look out for products that contain at least 70% SiO2 to get your desired results.
Durability
This is an important factor because you want something that will last long. some coatings last for 2 years while others last for 5 years and above. You should look out for those that last for 5 years and above. however, you need to bear in mind that how long the coating will last also depends on the climate and your maintenance and driving habits.
Ease of Application
If you intend to DIY, ensure that you look for a consumer-grade product. These types of products come with instructions and are easy to apply (that’s the expectation but it’s not always the case. Bearing this in mind, look out for a product that’s easy to apply. However, we recommend that you use professionals such as Offset Detailing to carry out the job. This will give you the peace of mind that the job will be well done with optimal results.
Also note that some coatings need to be applied in multiple layers and have specific and exact durations for curing while others may be applied in just one layer. Imagine the stress that a professional will save you if you want to use the former; you also save time and effort.
Cost
While price should not be your first consideration, you must look out for an option that will provide value for your money. Make a budget for the job, bearing in mind the wide range of costs of different options the level of protection they provide, and expected durability.
Conclusion
We have discussed some basics about ceramic coating in this article and some factors you should consider when making a choice. Bear these pieces of information in mind as they will help you get good value for your money.
