• Ceramic coatings add a protective layer between a vehicle’s paint and the environment
• Professional ceramic coating is recommended and requires an ultra-clean environment for long-lasting and optimal results
• Ceramic coating is a cost-effective investment for long-term protection
• Adding a ceramic coating to new cars helps maintain the resale value and that new-car sheen

Ceramic coatings are a popular and effective way to protect your car’s paint from environmental hazards such as UV rays, dirt, and pollutants. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know which one is right for your car. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about ceramic coatings and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

First, let’s clarify what a ceramic coating is and what it’s not. Ceramic coatings are silica-based treatments that are applied to the exterior of a car to create a protective layer over the paint. They are not the same as wax or sealants, which offer a temporary layer of protection and require frequent reapplication.

While old-school coatings were polymer-based, modern paint protection formulations are much more effective. The main ingredient in modern ceramic coatings is silicon dioxide, also known as silica or quartz. This compound is known for its durability and ability to repel water and dirt.

Tint Haus, for example, uses a silica-based (Si02) ceramic coating. These are applied by hand to the exterior of the vehicle. Once in place, the coating bonds with the clear coat of the car’s factory paint and creates another layer of protection. The bond between the paint and the coating is either permanent or semi-permanent. It won’t wash away or break down over time, and there is no need for re-application.

Ceramic coating provides 5 Keys benefits for your car, including:

1. Protection against UV rays and fading
2. Resistance to damaging environmental chemicals
3. Hydrophobic properties that repel water and dirt
4. Increased gloss and shine
5. Easier cleaning and maintenance

There are two main types of ceramic coatings: professional ceramic coatings and consumer ceramic coatings.

Professional ceramic coatings are applied by trained professionals in ultra-clean environments. They are thicker, usually tougher, and require greater skill to apply.

When properly applied to a prepared surface, the coating bonds to the paint and will not wash away or break down over time.

On the other hand, the average consumer ceramic coating is designed to be easily applied at home. This means they are formulated to be more easily handled and are generally not able to provide the same level of protection. 

Professional ceramic coatings are usually harder – making them more resistant to environmental abrasions. At Tint Haus for example, we use a UK-manufactured ceramic coating – which delivers a certified 10H hardness (the hardest on the market).

Yes, it is possible to do ceramic coating yourself using consumer ceramic coating products. However, it requires proper preparation, tools, and technique to achieve the best results. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and take the time to prepare the surface properly.

There are 100s of DIY ceramic coating products to choose from. The best can reach 9H hardness but still are likely to wear off in 2-3 years.

Many require you to apply several layers of coating. Some are very tricky – needing to be precisely applied in thin and even coats. Speed is also essential with some beginning to harden in as little as 20 seconds.

They are also very sticky and can easily end up all over your bumpers and other car parts – requiring hours to remove.

So you are thinking about DIY ceramic coating, you better know what you are doing.

In short, when you choose a professional Ceramic Coating installer, you are paying for the technicians’ expertise and experience, the installation environment as well as the product.

DIY ceramic coatings typically last between 1-2 years, depending on the product and the conditions in which the car is driven and stored.

A professional ceramic coating can last up to five years, depending on the product and the condition of your car’s paint. Regular maintenance and washing can help extend the life of the coating.

However, the Tint Haus Ceramic Coating comes with a lifetime warranty against bird/bat droppings, watermarks, paint fade, oxidisation, loss of gloss and tree sap.

At Tint Haus, we install the toughest ceramic coating on the market (10H) for only $995. We also offer heavily discounted, bundled car protection packages.

If you’ve just purchased a new car, you are even more likely to be thinking about adding a ceramic coating. In fact, it is common for clients to get ceramic coating (or paint protection and other services) immediately after purchasing their vehicle.

In short, the better the condition of the car’s paint, the more benefit you will get from adding a ceramic coating.

However, it really depends on your specific situation.

If you plan on keeping your car for a long time and want to protect its paint from damage, a ceramic coating is worth the investment. Similarly, if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, a ceramic coating can help protect your car’s paint from these elements.

However, if you plan on trading in or selling your car in the immediate future, a ceramic coating may not be necessary.

Another thing to consider is the cost of repainting your car. Some new vehicles such as Teslas, are notorious for paint problems. Adding ceramic coatings to these will save you money in the long term.

Ultimately, it comes down to how much you care about the appearance of your vehicle.

If you have invested a substantial sum in a luxury car, a high-end sports car, or a custom car, investing in a ceramic coating paint protection treatment to better maintain its appearance makes total sense.

Generally, a ceramic coating on a new car can last up to five years, depending on the product and the conditions in which the car is driven and stored. However, Tint Haus’ ceramic coating can last longer.

One of the great benefits of ceramic coating is the ease of maintenance it provides. The hydrophobic properties of the coating prevent dirt, grime, and water spots from sticking to the surface, making it much easier to clean. However, it’s still important to take proper care of your ceramic-coated car to ensure its longevity.

No, ceramic coating is actually quite easy to maintain. Regularly washing your car with a pH-neutral car wash solution and using a microfiber towel to dry it will help to prevent water spots and keep your car looking shiny. It’s also a good idea to avoid parking your car under trees or in areas where it could be exposed to bird droppings, as these can etch the coating over time.

Most automatic car washes use harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes that can scratch the surface of your car, including the ceramic coating. Even our 10H (the hardest available) ceramic coating will be scratched in this situation.

It’s recommended that you hand wash your car or use touchless car washes that use high-pressure water to clean the surface.

Although our 10H ceramic coating offers additional resistance to washing brush swirls and minor abrasions, take care while washing and drying to not rub dirt and grit back onto the surface.

It’s not necessary to wax a ceramic coated car, as the coating provides similar benefits to waxing, such as protection from UV rays and contaminants. However, if you choose to wax your car, it’s important to use a wax that’s specifically designed for use on ceramic coatings. Regular car waxes may contain abrasives that can damage the coating.

Yes, you can use a pressure washer on a car with ceramic coating but it’s important to use the correct technique. Use a wide-angle nozzle and keep the pressure at a low setting to avoid damaging the coating. It’s also a good idea to pre-soak the car with a gentle car wash solution before using the pressure washer.

No, ceramic coating does not change the colour of your car. However, it enhances the colour and shine of your car, making it look more vibrant and glossy with an everlasting showroom finish.

(If you are interested in adjusting the sheen of your paint, explore our PPF Matte Conversion option.)

We deliver only the best Ceramic Coating for our discriminating clients.

Our market-leading Ceramic Coating is the toughest on the market (10H) and is formulated with revolutionary SiO2 (silica) to deliver additional protection against environmental contaminants and minor abrasions.

We pride ourselves on delivering the care and attention to detail our customers rightly expect with precision installation by qualified technicians with years of experience.

In addition, our state-of-the-art installation studios are equipped with industry-leading lighting and infrared curing lamps to guarantee an unsurpassed quality finish – every time.

Contact Tint Haus and choose Australia’s Toughest Ceramic Coating.