How can a sealant possibly last more than five years?
Quick answer: Because modern professional sealants are polymer/synthetic-resin coatings that cure into a hard, paint-like shell. Unlike wax, they don’t melt or burn off - they degrade slowly, so in favourable conditions they can last many years beyond the guarantee.
Modern professional grade sealants have very little in common with traditional waxes, which would only last a few months at best.
Modern coatings are closer to paint, being made of polymers and synthetic resins. Once dried and cured, they form an extremely durable shell over your paintwork, or any other substrate you wish to apply them to.
Unlike waxes which are soft and burn off in the sun, modern coatings degrade very slowly, and depending on the environmental conditions they are subject to, could last many years beyond the guarantee.
What we mean by “sealant”
Old-school polymer sealants lasted months. Today, many people use “sealant” to describe professional ceramic coatings – semi-permanent films that bond to your clear coat and outlast waxes and DIY sprays by years.
How it works
Your installer prepares the paint and applies a recognised ceramic system that cures into a tight, microns-thin network. The film is resistant to chemicals and UV and stands up to careful washing. Abrasion is the main way it wears, which is why technique matters over time.
Why “five years” is realistic
- Professional-only chemistry: Accredited products form durable networks, not just temporary gloss.
- Controlled installation: Proper decontamination, correction and curing maximise adhesion and longevity.
- Maintenance, not magic: Hydrophobics can soften with use, but the underlying film can remain – your installer can refresh slickness with approved maintenance toppers.
- Use case fit: Sensible washing and avoiding harsh abrasives help the coating last for years.
We believe that "five years" or even "ten years" is not unrealistic. In fact, we'll go further any say that properly maintained, they could last indefinitely. We have seen cars with professional 5-Year polymer sealants such as Supagard and Diamondbrite last many years past their guarantee, and we'd expect no less from ceramic coatings.
What people confuse
- Waxes and spray “ceramics”: These are short-term. They boost beading but don’t equal a professional ceramic coating.
- Marketplace products: Buying coatings on eBay or AliExpress is discouraged. Use accredited professionals and recognised systems.
What can shorten life – and how to avoid it
- Poor preparation: Inadequate correction or contamination under the film reduces durability. Choose an accredited installer.
- Harsh or frequent abrasion: Aggressive wash media, dirty towels or claying for light dust will thin the film.
- Strong chemicals during cure: Follow collection and first-wash guidance from your installer.
Removal and reversibility
Ceramic coatings are semi-permanent. They are not stripped by solvents, caustics or acids. If you ever need to remove or reset, a professional will use machine polishing and, if required, wet-sanding.
Best-practice checklist
- Choose a trusted, accredited installer and a recognised ceramic system.
- Get clear aftercare and stick to safe washing.
- Ask about periodic inspection and maintenance toppers to keep performance high.
Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 03/11/2025 17:39
Further Reading
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🍀 How long do ceramic coatings really last?
An article answering how long you can expect a ceramic coating to last in the real world.