Ceramic Coating

A ceramic coating is a protective layer of synthetic resins and silica dioxide which can be applied to any hard surface including paintwork, plastic, glass and metal.

Ceramic coatings are a semi-permanent car paint protection coating which require skilled application and are applied as an alternative to waxes and sealants. A ceramic coating creates a protective layer which forms a bond with the paintwork to provide a durable barrier against the environment and helps protect against dirt, grit and corrosive compounds which damage your car's appearance.

The coating also preserves the paintwork's shine and is highly hydrophobic, making it easier to clean and maintain your vehicle. Ceramic coating gained popularity through the 2010s, largely because of their ease of maintenance.

Professional grade ceramic coatings need to be applied by a trained technician within a controlled environment, and therefore are generally only available from car detailers at a fixed premises. After careful preparation of the surfaces which are to be treated, the coating is applied by hand, after which there is a cure time during which the car needs to be protected from moisture and extremes of temperature.  

What it means

Ceramic coatings are typically SiO₂/organosilane systems that flash and cross-link on the clear coat to form a hard, low-surface-energy film. Applied thin and levelled correctly, they give predictable beading or sheeting and slow re-soiling. Proper preparation – decontamination, polishing where needed and a residue-free panel wipe – is essential for bonding and appearance.

Why it matters

• Durability: longer-lasting protection than waxes and most polymer sealants, with stronger chemical resistance.
• Appearance: increases gloss and clarity, with tuned water behaviour for easier drying.
• Maintenance: lowers day-to-day cleaning effort and helps resist staining and light wash marring.
• Value: preserves finish and resale when paired with sensible wash routines and periodic toppers.

Where you’ll see it

Detailers’ service menus, accredited installer networks, DIY consumer coatings and brand warranties that specify cure windows, aftercare and inspection intervals.

Context

Car Paint Protection; Ceramic coatings

Common mistakes

• Assuming “ceramic = scratch-proof” – it improves resistance to light marring but will not stop chips or deep scratches.
• Expecting it to fill defects – scratches and swirls need polishing before coating.
• Skipping decon/polish/panel wipe – poor prep leads to weak bonding, high spots and patchy behaviour.
• Applying on hot or cold panels, in high humidity or in direct sun – timing and wipe-off become unpredictable.
• Letting the car get wet before it is water-safe – risk of water spotting during early cure.
• Layering too thick or outside the inter-coat window – causes smears and poor bonding.
• Using paint ceramics on windscreens – many are not wiper-safe; use a dedicated glass coating.
• Coating fresh respray too soon – respect the repaint waiting period per the paint TDS.
• Relying on harsh TFRs weekly – strong chemistry can mute hydrophobics and shorten real-world life.

Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 19/11/2025 14:11