Ceramic coatings have been a popular choice for car owners who want to protect their vehicles from UV damage and maintain the luster of the paint. However, ceramic coatings can still experience maintenance issues if not properly cared for, despite their durability and longevity. In this blog post, we’ll share tips on avoiding ceramic coating maintenance issues and keeping your car looking great while using the best professional ceramic coating maintenance tips.
Properly Clean Your Car Before Applying Ceramic Coating
One of the most important things you can do to prevent maintenance issues with ceramic coatings is to ensure your car is properly cleaned before applying the coating. This means removing any dirt, grime, or contaminants from the car’s surface, as these can affect the adhesion and durability of the coating.
To clean your car correctly, wash it with a gentle soap and water solution. Once the car is clean, you should use a clay bar to remove any remaining contaminants from the surface. This will ensure that the ceramic coating adheres properly and help prevent delamination and peeling issues.
Avoid High-Pressure Washing
Although high-pressure washing effectively cleans your car, it can also damage the ceramic coating. High-pressure water can cause the coating to chip or peel, leading to maintenance issues over time. To avoid this, use low-pressure water or hand wash your car instead.
Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaning Tools
Using abrasive cleaning tools can damage your car’s paint, especially a ceramic coating. The rough materials used in abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool, stiff-bristled brushes, and scouring pads can scratch and damage the surface of the coating, leaving it looking dull and less effective. It’s important to avoid these types of tools altogether and instead use soft microfiber towels, foam applicators, and gentle brushes designed for delicate surfaces.
When cleaning your car, it’s also important to avoid excessive force or pressure, as this can also cause damage to the coating. Using the right tools and techniques, you can help ensure that your ceramic coating stays in excellent condition and continues to provide long-lasting protection for your car’s paint.
Use pH-Neutral Products
Using pH-neutral products is essential when maintaining a ceramic coating. Products with high pH levels can damage the coating, while products with low pH levels can neutralize the coating’s hydrophobic properties. To maintain the integrity of your ceramic coating, it is best to use pH-neutral products for washing, drying, and other maintenance activities.
Avoid Automatic Car Washes
Automatic car washes may seem convenient for keeping your car clean, but they can do more harm than good, especially if it has a ceramic coating. The brushes and chemicals used in these car washes can scratch the surface of the coating, causing it to become less effective over time.
Additionally, the harsh chemicals used in automatic car washes can strip away the coating’s protective layer, leaving your car vulnerable to damage from the elements. To avoid these issues, it’s best to avoid automatic car washes altogether and hand wash your car with a gentle pH-neutral soap and a soft wash mitt. This way, you can ensure that your ceramic coating stays in top condition and continues to provide the protection your car needs.
Apply Ceramic Coating Correctly
Finally, the best way to prevent maintenance issues with ceramic coatings is to apply them correctly in the first place. When applying a ceramic coating, following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential. This will ensure the coating is applied evenly and properly adheres to the car’s surface. In addition, make sure to use a clean and well-ventilated area, as dust and other contaminants can affect the quality of the coating.
In conclusion, ceramic coatings are a great way to protect your car from damage and maintain its appearance over time. However, to avoid maintenance issues with your ceramic coating, following proper cleaning and maintenance practices is essential. Following these tips can keep your ceramic coating looking great for years. Or better yet, get in touch with us so that we can do it for you.