How Long Does It Take For A Ceramic Coating To Wear Off?

If you recently purchased a new car, there’s a high chance you’re thinking about maintaining the car’s paint and protecting it from swirl marks and other blemishes, which is excellent.

The condition of your car’s surface speaks volumes. And don’t forget that it also influences its resale value. Perhaps you’ve decided to apply a ceramic coating to your car’s paint; you’ve probably got a few questions about ceramic coatings.

So, this article tells you important things about ceramic coating for cars that you need to know.

What Are Ceramic Coatings

Ceramic coating, otherwise called nano-ceramic coating, is a chemical polymer solution that shields your car’s exterior from minor damage like marks, chips, and scratches.

The silicon dioxide in the solution combines with other elements to create a transparent, resilient protective layer over the clear coat.

Ceramic coatings also have hydrophobic properties, making your vehicle’s exterior easy to clean and reducing dirt stains and water spots.

So, How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last?

Ceramic coating lifespan depends on DIY or professional service, type of coating, DIY ceramic coating kit, and more.

If maintained, your ceramic coating should last two to seven years.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Ceramic Coatings

Choice of Ceramic Coating

Various ceramic coating products are on the market today, and you’ll even find options for ceramic spray coating.

Though ceramic coatings last about two to seven years, some products have a limited lifetime warranty.

If you’re buoyant enough, consider high-quality ceramic coating products. With proper maintenance, the protective layer will serve you for years.

Ceramic Coating Installation

Every ceramic coating brand has specific instructions on preparation and installation. Properly preparing a vehicle’s surface is crucial before applying ceramic coatings.

Poor prep work can affect the efficiency and longevity of the ceramic paint coating. What’s worse is that you can’t remove and re-install it.

Perhaps you wish to remedy the poorly installed coating; avoid laying a new one over the existing ceramic coating.

External Conditions

Many ceramic coating products have a minimum durability rating regarding wear and tear from external conditions like bird droppings, dirt, and the weather.

If a ceramic-coated car hardly leaves the garage, the paint protection layer can last beyond its life expectancy. At the same time, a daily driver constantly interacting with dirt and other harsh conditions may experience a shorter life span.

Car Care and Maintenance

This factor is arguably the most significant factor that dictates the life span of a ceramic coating. Professionally installed ceramic coatings require proper care for optimum efficiency.

Requirements for coating maintenance often differ by manufacturers, but a standard rule of thumb is to avoid washing ceramic-coated cars at regular car washes.

The impact of aggressive car wash brushes can accelerate the wearing of the coating. Instead, opt for proper handwashing and touchless car washes.

Practices That Can Make Your Car Ceramic Coating Wear Out Fast

Driving in Extreme Weather Conditions

If you reside in an extremely hot or cold region, you need to pay particular attention to your car’s maintenance to protect your investment in paint protection.

In such weather conditions, car parts may expand or contract more frequently than usual, creating tiny creases and cracks on the coating surface.

Washing with Harsh Chemicals

Stick to the product manufacturer’s recommendations regarding cleaning products. Washing a ceramic-coated vehicle with harsh chemicals is a recipe for disaster.

Some chemicals eat up the protection layer exposing the clear coat to dirt and grime, causing water to seep in.

Polishing of Vehicle Exterior

Exterior polishing is a typical mistake most homeowners make when caring for ceramic-coated surfaces. Polishing coated surfaces reduce the product’s ability to repel water and stains.

How to Properly Maintain Nano Ceramic Coating

Allow It to Cure Properly

Ceramic coatings need sufficient time to cure: a two to three-week curing period will suffice. It’s critical to park the vehicle in a safe place during the curing period.

The goal is to avoid dirt and other defects on the coating as it bonds to the vehicle’s body panels.

Keep the Surface Clean

Ceramic coating is notorious for repelling dirt and water if installed correctly. Dirt and grime buildup can quickly tarnish the paint job. However, handwashing your car at least once a week with the right products will keep your vehicle shiny as expected.

Detail Occasionally

Consider detailing your car with a professional that’s familiar with ceramic coating. We recommend detailing twice a year to maintain your vehicle’s shine.

The Bottom Line

If you’re planning to coat your vehicle or recently did, you’re now aware of what you must do to get the best out of your investment.

Perhaps you need a professional ceramic coating service in Portland, ME, contact Prestige Tint and Detail. We offer top-notch interior and exterior detailing services call us at (207) 222-3025 to schedule an appointment.