Ceramic wax and ceramic coatings may seem to be the same product, but there are significant differences between the two and the level of protection they provide. Read on to learn three reasons why ceramic coatings are more beneficial for your car than ceramic waxes.
Longevity
While ceramic wax lasts longer than most other car waxes, it still cannot compete with a ceramic coating’s longevity. Ceramic coating is a permanent or semi-permanent solutionーdepending on the grade of polymer you go with.
While ceramic wax protects your clear coat anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, properly applied ceramic coatings can last years. Due to its chemical structure, the coating does not break down from environmental factors such as rain or heatーmeaning it can last longer than other sealants while also protecting your paint job from those same elements.
Strength
Both ceramic wax and ceramic coatings are designed to protect your vehicle’s paint job, but ceramic coatings are far more durable. Ceramic coatings develop a stronger molecular bond with your car’s surface and utilize nanotechnology to create a resilient protective layer. Quality ceramic coatings have a 9H hardness level—making it one of the hardest and strongest forms of protection for your clear coat.
Another way ceramic coating takes the win in strength and durability has to do with how it interacts with water. Where most ceramic waxes are hydro-resistant, ceramic coatings are hydrophobic—meaning they completely repel water. Because of this, you don’t need to worry about washing your protection away in your next car wash. In fact, once your ceramic coating has cured, it can only be removed through abrasion like wet sanding.
Protection
Many standard car waxes and exterior coating compounds are not strong enough to prevent corrosion, withstand weathering, or self-heal scratches. However, ceramic coating is in a league of its own.
The chemical formula of ceramic coatings allows for better protection from UV light by creating a barrier between your car's paint and the sun's harmful rays. A ceramic coating can also help to prevent oxidation which causes your paint to wear away and your vehicle’s colors to fade.
Not only does a ceramic coating act as a shield against UV rays, surface scratches, and weathering—it also provides protection from environmental factors such as bird droppings, tree sap, and grime from the road. These contaminants can be highly acidic and can cause permanent damage to your car’s paint. The no-bond surface and self-cleaning nature of ceramic coatings prevents these contaminants from bonding to your vehicle’s paint and even uses water to encapsulate dirt as it rolls off the surface.
When it comes to protecting your vehicle’s exterior, there are countless options available. However, none of them compare to the strength, durability, and shielding powers of ceramic coatings.
If you want a quality long-lasting solution that keeps your vehicle in showroom condition, contact your local auto detailing shop to see what ceramic coating options are available for you.
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