CERAMIC COATINGS
Ceramic coatings are a top-tier protective solution for your vehicle’s exterior. Unlike traditional waxes or sealants that wear off after a few months, ceramic coating forms a durable, long-lasting bond with the paint. This creates an ultra-hydrophobic surface that repels water, preventing dirt and grime from sticking. It also offers superior UV protection, preventing paint oxidation and fading. This means your vehicle maintains a glossy finish for years, reduces the frequency of washes, and ultimately adds value to your vehicle.
THE PROCESS
A thorough wash is the foundation of a flawless finish. Any dirt or grit left on the surface can get trapped during the next steps, causing micro-scratches and potentially permanent damage. By starting with a proper wash, we ensure a clean surface that’s ready for safe, professional detailing.
PAINT DECONTAMINATION
The decontamination step is crucial because it removes embedded contaminants from the paint surface, like industrial fallout, tree sap, or rail dust. If these contaminants aren’t removed, they can cause problems when you move on to polishing. Here’s why:
- Preventing Scratches: If you try to polish the paint without removing these contaminants, they can get trapped in the polishing pad and cause micro-scratches or marring.
- Ensuring Even Polishing: Contaminants can create uneven surfaces, which makes it harder to achieve a consistent polish. By claying first, the surface is smooth and even, making the polishing process more effective.
- Protecting the Paint: Any contaminants left on the surface can cause the polishing process to be less effective and can even cause long-term damage.
So, in a nutshell, claying the surface ensures that the paint is clean and free from any particles that could cause issues in the next steps. It’s all about achieving a flawless, mirror-like finish!
PAINT CORRECTION (if needed)
If the paint has swirl marks, scratches, or oxidation, we perform a machine polish to restore clarity and depth. This step not only improves appearance but also creates the perfect base for the coating to bond.
SURFACE PREP
Before applying the coating, we use a special cleaning solution to strip away any oils, waxes, or residues left from polishing. This guarantees a clean surface for the ceramic to bond at the molecular level.
CERAMIC COATING APPLICATION
Once the vehicle’s paint is fully prepped—clean, decontaminated, and corrected—the ceramic coating can be applied. Here’s how it’s done:
- Sectioning the Vehicle: The vehicle is divided into small sections, usually about one panel at a time. This ensures an even application and avoids any streaks or high spots.
- Applying the Coating: A small amount of ceramic coating is applied to an applicator pad. The coating is then spread evenly over the panel in straight, overlapping strokes.
- Buffing the Surface: After allowing the coating to flash for a few moments (which is the time it needs to bond to the paint), the surface is gently buffed with a microfiber towel to remove any excess and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.
- Curing Time: Once applied, the coating needs some time to cure. This can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the product. During this time, the vehicle should be kept dry and free from contaminants.
