Our generation is very focused on ourselves, sharing even the smallest details of our lives on social media, from our meals to our pets and our workout selfies. This self-centeredness extends to our choice of possessions, like smartphones with glass backs that look nice but break easily, even though we handle them all the time.
This fragility issue isn’t limited to phones; cars face a similar problem. In the past, cars had bumpers to absorb the impact and protect the vehicle in collisions. However, most modern cars don’t have these bumpers anymore, even though they’re filled with advanced technology for safety and driver assistance, making repairs costly.
While it’s hard to completely prevent accidents without bringing back bumpers, if you want to protect your car’s paint, you might consider using ceramic coating.
Related article: Buying A Used Car in Australia
What is ceramic coating?
Think of bumpers as armour for your car, protecting it from impacts. Ceramic coating, on the other hand, works like a second skin. It’s a liquid polymer applied to the outside of your vehicle.
Ceramic coating relies on nanotechnology, using tiny particles to create a protective layer on your car. Because these particles are so small, they can fill the surface’s tiny pores, making it both water-repellent and resistant to UV rays and chemicals.
One great thing about ceramic coating is that it’s transparent and forms a strong chemical bond with your car’s surface. This means it won’t just wash away in the rain or during car washes, and it can last for several years.
So, if you’re tired of waxing your car every month, ceramic coating is a fantastic option. It offers similar benefits with the added advantage of long-lasting protection.
What Are the Advantages of Ceramic Coating?
While much of Australia is currently dealing with drought, it’s essential to understand the value of ceramic coating. Even though heavy rainfall may not be a concern now, you’ll appreciate ceramic coating’s hydrophobic feature when the rain returns.
The real issue isn’t the water itself; it’s the dirt, grime, and mud carried by the rain that can be a hassle. If you’ve ever noticed stubborn dirt spots on your car’s windshield after rain, you’ll be glad to know that cleaning them off is much easier on a coated car.
Furthermore, the ceramic coating provides protection against excessive UV exposure. Sun exposure can lead to oxidation, making your car’s paint look faded and dull. In Australia, with its abundant sunshine, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal highways, having your car coated can prove highly beneficial in the long run.
To sum up for a better understanding:
Benefits of ceramic coating
- Hydrophobic properties that repel water and make cleaning easier.
- Protection against dirt, grime, and mud, reducing effort in cleaning.
- Defence against UV exposure, preventing paint from fading.
- Particularly beneficial in sunny places like Australia with intense sun exposure.
- Reduces the need for frequent waxing, providing long-lasting protection.
- Enhances the car’s appearance by maintaining a glossy finish.
What Are the Disadvantages of Ceramic Coating?
It’s important to understand that ceramic coating is extremely thin. While it can provide some protection against minor scratches, it won’t save you from mishaps in a parking lot. It lacks the flexibility and thickness needed to guard against deep gashes or heavy impacts.
So, when you’re planning to drive through rugged places like the Outback or Ormiston Gorge, remember that ceramic coating won’t offer much help against rock chips and pebbles.
I mentioned earlier that ceramic coating eliminates the need for monthly waxing, which is true. However, it doesn’t mean you can neglect your car entirely. Even a coated car, especially if it’s used daily, will still require regular cleaning, but with less effort and less frequency. While dirt can be removed more easily, it will still build up over time if you don’t wash your car.
It’s also worth noting that while it’s possible to apply a DIY ceramic coating kit yourself, you must take extra care when doing so. The ceramic coating acts as a transparent extra layer of protection, so it’s crucial that your car’s surface is in perfect condition before applying the coating. Once applied, it’s challenging to fix the underlying surface without removing the coating.
To sum up for a better understanding:
Disadvantages of ceramic coating
- Extremely thin, providing limited protection against deep scratches or impacts.
- Ineffective for guarding against significant damage in parking lots.
- Not suitable for protecting against rock chips and pebbles in rugged environments.
- Regular car maintenance, including washing, is still necessary, albeit with reduced effort and frequency.
- Important to apply the coating on a pristine car surface as it cannot correct underlying issues.
- Difficult to fix underlying surface problems without removing the coating.
In Conclusion
Ceramic coating offers a range of benefits for your car. With its hydrophobic properties, it makes cleaning a breeze, even when dirt and mud are involved. Plus, it stands as a shield against the sun’s UV rays, maintaining your car’s shine. This is especially valuable in sunny places like Australia.
Say goodbye to the hassle of frequent waxing, as ceramic coating provides lasting protection. However, remember that it’s not a magical solution. It won’t guard against deep scratches or major impacts in parking lots, and it won’t shield your car from rock chips in rugged terrain.
But don’t let these limitations deter you. It’s still a fantastic investment, making your car maintenance much easier. Keep your vehicle clean, and make sure the surface is in top-notch condition before applying the coating. With ceramic coating, your car can continue to turn heads and look its best for years to come. So, go ahead and give your car the protection it deserves!
