Ceramic Coating vs. Traditional Automotive Paint Job: Which Is Better?
CALL (253) 533-6776As much as you want the car you bought with your hard-earned money to last a long time, you also want it to look as new as possible. Because of this, many people place a high priority on adding vehicle protection. Your automobile will last longer and be in better condition if you add a protective layer. This will also save you time and money.
With that in mind, we’re going to look at the similarities and differences between a traditional automotive paint job and a ceramic coating. After reading this article, you should be able to make an informed decision about which is right for your vehicle.
Keep reading to learn more.
What is a Ceramic Coating?
A ceramic paint coating, also known as a “nano-ceramic coating,” is a coat of clear paint used to protect the color and finish of the paint job on a car.
Most of the time, this liquid polymer is used to protect cars that are constantly exposed to harsh outside conditions.
Ceramic coatings can be applied to both single-layer and two-layer paint jobs. A more protective coating is achieved when the ceramic coating cures.
What is a Traditional Automotive Paint Job?
Traditional automotive paint jobs are the old-school way of painting a car. They are achieved using a paint system, primer, and then a series of traditional waxes. The primer cleans the surface and allows the paint to stick to it better.
The paint system makes sure that the paint is the right thickness so that it can be spread out evenly and correctly, and it also protects from dirt, moisture, and ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Differences Between Ceramic Coatings and Paint Jobs
- Protection vs. Color - Ceramic coatings protect the paint job, but they do not change or add to the car's color. Ceramic paint coatings only protect the paint job from sunlight and other environmental factors. Existing ceramic coating for cars is waterproof and hence more durable.
- Viscosity- Ceramic car coating is much thinner than a traditional automotive paint job. This makes it much easier to apply, paint over, and remove. Traditional automotive paints have a viscosity that makes it extremely difficult to remove them once applied.
- Removal vs. Protection- The hardness of ceramic car coatings (due to their silicon dioxide content) is high and makes it extremely difficult to remove them. This makes it very durable and suitable for protecting cars against UV rays. A ceramic coating can be removed only by sanding it down, which damages the paint job underneath.
- Application vs. Coverage- A nano-ceramic coating can be applied to just about any paint job. Paint jobs that are not smooth and flawless can be coated with a ceramic coating because it does not require a perfect surface for the paint system to function.
- Color- Pigments are used to make traditional car paints, which are what give them their colors. The nano-ceramic coating is transparent and does not change the color of the car.
When Should You Use Ceramic Coating?
A high-quality ceramic coating product should be used on a car with white paint. It is also a good idea to apply a ceramic coating to a car that is regularly exposed to external factors. It is also suitable for protecting cars against high UV rays, light scratches, and swirl marks.
Cars with white paint jobs should have a ceramic coating for paint correction. You can also apply a ceramic coating to a car painted a light shade of gray or beige because these cars are almost always exposed to harsh conditions.
Frequent exposure to rain, sleet, tree sap, and snow causes the paint job on cars to become dull and rusted. The best ceramic coating creates a good covering for cars.
Should I Get a Ceramic Coating for My Car?
Simply put, learning all you can about car wax is essential before deciding which one is right for you. It's also important to understand that ceramic coatings do nothing but replace the protection found in an excellent car's finish.
When you use paint protection film and then put ceramic coating on all painted surfaces of your car, you give it the best protection possible.
Know Your Ceramic Coating Options
In terms of basic ceramic products, there are only two common types of ceramic coated surfaces: “professional grade car coatings” and “DIY ceramic coating kits.” Although both methods add a protective layer of nanocoating to your car's paint, the price varies significantly.
How Much Does a Ceramic Coating Cost?
Usually, the cost begins at about $399 with an expert application. Ceramics are typically priced over $100 to ensure durability and performance, but are often difficult to apply. The final results are directly related to costs, time, or energy, but most low-cost ceramics are more likely to outperform comparable-priced conventional wax.
Looking for a Car Ceramic Coating Expert in Tacoma and Olympia, WA?
Suppose you want your automobile to keep looking as new as when you first drove it from the dealer's shop. In that case, it is wise to have the best ceramic coatings installed by experts. At Lucent Auto Work, we do a great job of detailing cars and give honest quotes and detailed descriptions of what we do.
First and foremost, we make sure that the best products are installed with the most high-tech tools the auto industry has to offer. Most automobile shops insist you buy a package regardless of the service you need. We are nothing like that!
Our services are crafted to suit your needs. Whether you just need a glass coating, an additional layer added to an existing ceramic coating, or simple dent and scratch removal from us, your wish is our command!
For an optimum-quality ceramic coat, please get in touch with us for a quote. We're not trying to make blatant promises or sell products. Our goal is to help you make the right choice for your vehicle in the long term.
We would like to hear how we can help you improve the performance and appearance of your vehicle. Give us a call today!
Lucent Auto Work has been providing expert quality automotive detailing services since its founding in 1996. With a focus on providing honest price quotes, comprehensive breakdowns of our services, and above all else, the best products installed by the most high-tech equipment the detailing industry has to offer, Lucent Auto Work is here to make a difference on your ride!