CAN CERAMIC COATING FIX PAINT DAMAGE ON CARS?
If you are a car owner, you may have heard about the benefits of ceramic coating for protecting the paint job of your car.
The ads on Facebook, Instagram or Google for ceramic coating products claim that they can fill microscopic imperfections present in the paint and fix paint damage. But is this claim true?
In this article, we will explore the reality behind the marketing hype. the marketing of automotive aftercare products, there is a thin line between reality and fiction. In some cases, fiction is sold and reality is ignored.
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Nano ceramic coating or ceramic coating for cars does an outstanding job in protecting and enhancing the gloss or matte finish of a paint job, plastics, wheels or interior of your car and carbon fiber materials.
Despite this fact, it becomes a fictional tale when automotive enthusiasts are told that ceramic DIY coating products can repair a car's paint. The optimal method of fixing or correcting the vehicle's paint is through buffing and paint correction but not a ceramic coating.
Without a shadow of a doubt, as pretty as the car looks after coating it with ceramic paint, the protective function is compromised. Therefore, let's explore this topic and understand why fixing paint damage is important. Before applying paint sealant, car wax, DIY, or professional ceramic coating, processes such as marring, minor spider webbing, or swirl marks must be done.
What is The Purpose of Ceramic Coating for Cars?
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Protection from UV Rays | Ceramic coatings provide a strong protective layer that shields the paint from harmful UV rays, which can cause fading and oxidation over time. |
| Enhanced Gloss and Shine | The coating adds a high gloss finish that enhances the paint's shine, making the car look consistently new. |
| Hydrophobic Properties | It creates a hydrophobic (water-repelling) surface that makes water bead up and slide off easily, reducing water spots and etching from minerals. |
| Protection from Chemical Stains | Ceramic coatings are resistant to chemicals, preventing stains and etching from acidic contaminants like bird droppings and tree sap. |
| Improved Cleanliness and Maintenance | The slick surface of the coating makes it easier to clean the car as dirt and grime have a harder time sticking to the surface. |
| Durability | Unlike wax that needs frequent reapplication, ceramic coatings can last for several years, providing long-term protection. |
Whether done by a professional or DIY, the purpose of ceramic coating is to protect the surface of the vehicle. Although nanotechnology in the coating can penetrate scratches and imperfections, it is not true that it fixes the paint.
Conversely, the coating can fill any swirl marks or large scratches, but the damage is still visible. In truth, the visibility of such imperfections can be enhanced instead of being repaired.
Let us explain why ceramic coatings have a propensity to highlight the damages on your car, how to correctly fix scratches and swirl marks, and how to optimally coat a recently repaired paint with ceramic paint to prevent imperfections from occurring again.
Do Ceramic Coatings Fill Scratches?
Ceramic coatings do not fill scratches on car paint. Instead, they form a hard protective layer on top of the existing paint. This layer is primarily designed to protect the paint from environmental elements, UV radiation, chemical stains, and water, but it does not have filling properties for physical damages like scratches or chips.
Before applying a ceramic coating, any scratches or imperfections on the car's surface should be properly treated and repaired, typically through polishing or other detailing techniques. The ceramic coating can then be applied to preserve the finish and maintain the car's appearance, but it won't cover up or repair existing scratches.
How Can Swirl Marks and Small Scratches Be Repaired By Polish?
Polish abd Buffing
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The gritty nature of polish allows it to cut the clear coating of a vehicle's paint. It does so until both the scratches and swirl marks correspond to the thickness of the adjacent paint. As the clear coat is taken out, the scratches and swirl marks are filled with residue cut by the polish. This procedure is known as 'leveling'.
It is similar to rubbing scratches with low grit sandpaper without damaging the surface. A scratch that can be felt through your fingernail should be removed with sandpaper by an experienced paint repair professional(a detailer).
What Are The Effects of Ceramic Coating on Your Car
The majority of car enthusiasts claim to use a ceramic coating to protect their vehicle's paint from harsh outdoor conditions, chemicals, and debris. Though, you should note that there is a clear contrast between protecting the paint job and physically fixing your car's paint.
Due to the protection feature, ceramic coating highlights scratches and swirl marks after it hardens and cures. The property that improves your vehicle's paint gloss and shines also enhances imperfections. The effect in which the glass coating fundamentally emphasizes the car's coating is called the magnifying effect.
Below are the various effects of ceramic coating on your car:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Resistant to Scratches | Even with being scratch-resistant, ceramic coating is not scratch-proof. The more expensive the coating, the more resistant it is to scratches, and the smaller scratches can be completely removed by buffing. |
| Salt Damage Protection | Salt is corrosive and destroys the paint coating if left on the surface. The ceramic coating protects the paint against corrosion, especially in cold areas. |
| Protection from UV Rays | When UV rays from the sun come in contact with the car's surface, it tends to cause damage. The radiation from the UV rays heats the surface, eating away the clear coat, hence destroying the surface. |
| Hydrophobic Properties | One of the most attractive attributes of ceramic coating is that it is water-repellant. Ceramic is flat, smooth, and slippery, making it repel water with ease. As a result, it is difficult for dirt or debris to stick to it without being engrained. |
Car Ceramic Coating Effects on Scratches and Swirl Marks
Scratches are tiny etchings on your vehicle's surface and can be caused by various sources. On the other hand, swirl marks are a bit complex since they are tiny etchings that can be seen at a certain angle or under sunlight or light from streetlamps.
Swirl marks are easily visible on flat surfaces such as roofs, hoods, or trunks. Sometimes they can appear on doors and fenders. They are often prominent on dark-colored paint.
Ironically, swirl marks are not only circular, but also horizontal, vertical, and diagonal.
Advantages of Ceramic Coating for Your Vehicle
Enhanced Gloss and Shine:
Experience a remarkable improvement in your car's appearance with a deep, reflective gloss that makes it stand out.
Increased Protection:
Say goodbye to concerns about scratches, swirl marks, and environmental damage. Ceramic coating offers a robust layer of defense to keep your car looking pristine.
Easier Cleaning and Maintenance:
Simplify your car care routine. The slick coating surface repels dirt and grime, making cleaning a breeze.
Long-Lasting Protection:
Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with durable, long-term protection for your car's exterior. Ceramic coating maintains its effectiveness for years, not just weeks or months.
Ready to Elevate Your Car's Appearance and Protection? Learn more about our ceramic coating services and get a personalized quote today!
How are Swirl Marks Generated?
Ordinarily, swirl marks occur after washing and wiping the car with a towel containing microscopic dirt and dust particles. They can also be formed by using an old mitt at the car wash. That being the case, the two-bucket method is the best way to wash your car.
Similarly, the idea that microfiber towels do not generate swirl marks is a myth. While microfiber towels are meant to reduce swirl marks, they can still occur. But, it is safer to use these towels when drying an unprotected clear-coated vehicle.
Factors Contributing to Swirl Marks on Car Paint
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Polishing or buffing with used pads | Using pads that are worn out or contaminated can introduce swirl marks as they may not distribute polishing compounds evenly or may contain abrasive particles. |
| Using polyester applicators or chamois | These materials can be too abrasive for car paint, especially if used when dry or improperly maintained, leading to swirls and scratches. |
| Using a dirty cover on your car | A cover that is dirty can drag dirt and debris across the paint surface when being put on or taken off, causing fine scratches and swirls. |
| Using automatic car washes | The brushes and cloths used in many automatic car washes can be harsh on car paint, especially if they are not kept clean and free of accumulated grime. |
| Forgetting to rinse your car | Applying soap and cleaning agents without thoroughly rinsing first can grind residual dirt into the paint, resulting in swirl marks. |
| Applying aggressive paint cleaners or cutting polish compounds | These strong chemicals and abrasive substances can cause swirl marks if not used carefully, as they are designed to remove layers of paint or clear coat. |
| Dusting your vehicle with dirty dusters | Using a duster that has picked up dirt can effectively turn it into fine sandpaper, dragging those particles across the paint and creating swirl marks. |
Can Swirl Marks Be Prevented?
To be honest, the bottom line is that it is impossible to entirely prevent swirl marks from occurring on the surface of your vehicle. However, you can considerably reduce the chance of occurrence by following these methods:
| Method | How It Helps Prevent Swirl Marks |
|---|---|
| Use the Two Bucket Method | Manually wash your car using the two-bucket method to separate the clean water from the rinse water, minimizing the transfer of dirt and grit back onto the car's surface, which can create swirl marks. |
| Thoroughly Rinse Your Car | Before applying soap, make sure to thoroughly rinse your car to remove as much loose dirt and debris as possible. This reduces the chance of dragging these particles across the paint during the washing process. |
| Use a Microfiber Drying Towel | Microfiber drying towels are gentle on car paint and are highly absorbent, which helps prevent swirl marks by reducing the amount of rubbing needed to dry the car. |
| Regularly Change Your Washing and Drying Cloths | Always use clean, soft cloths for washing and drying your vehicle. Dirty or gritty cloths can scratch the paint surface, leading to swirl marks. |
| Avoid Dry Dusting | Never dust your vehicle when it's dry. Dusting a dry car pushes around the dirt and dust, creating micro-scratches. Instead, lightly mist your car with a spray detailer to lift the dirt before wiping. |
| Apply a Protective Sealant or Wax | Regular application of a high-quality sealant or wax can provide a protective layer on the paint that helps reduce the formation of swirl marks by allowing dirt and debris to slide off more easily. |
How to Wash Your Car at Home ?
F&Q Section about Ceramic Coating
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Ceramic coatings typically last between 2 to 5 years, depending on the quality of the product and how well it's maintained. Factors like environmental conditions, the frequency of car washing, and exposure to chemicals can also impact its longevity.
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The cost varies widely based on the brand, type of vehicle, and the professional service's level of expertise. On average, prices can range from $500 for smaller cars and basic packages to over $2,000 for larger vehicles and premium coatings.
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Yes, for many people it is. Ceramic coating provides a high level of paint protection, which can preserve your car's appearance and potentially its value. It offers resistance against scratches, UV rays, chemical stains, and etching. However, the value can be subjective and depends on individual preferences and vehicle usage.
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Maintenance involves regular washing to remove dirt and contaminants. It's important to avoid abrasive cleaning methods and harsh chemicals. Periodic inspections are recommended to check for any need for reapplication or touch-ups. Using pH-neutral car shampoos and avoiding automated car washes can also prolong the coating's life.
Reduce Scratches by Adding a Professional Grade Ceramic Coating
Despite not being scratch-proof, a ceramic-grade coating is scratch-resistant. Thus, it can lower the risk of getting scratches. The hydrophobic attribute repels water and contaminants from the surface of the car, making it easy to clean with a microfiber cloth.
If you want to maintain your car's factory paint, reduce the chances of scratching, and enhance the appearance, contact us to get a ceramic paint coating today.At Fresh Layer San Diego we provide Ceramic Coating application, Ceramic Coating Wash, Interior Ceramic Coating
