FORMS OF PAINT PROTECTION
There are so many different paint protections out there today, it’s no wonder so many people are confused about what the best option for their car is. I’ll attempt to explain the differences and assist you in making the best paint protection for your car.
WAX
Waxes help with gloss and make the paint less susceptible to dirt and grime. They typically last 2 to 4 months depending on the weather, amount the vehicle is washed, and the type of wax. Waxes are easily removed by detergents. They do not protect against scratches, scuff marks, rock chips and chemicals.
SEALANTS
Sealants are a fully synthetic product engineered to protect the paint while improving the overall gloss. Sealants are engineered to bond to the paint surface. Because of this they will last 3-6 months, based on how often its washed, brand chosen etc. They offer protection against sap, road chemicals and UV rays. Sealants can be easily removed by detergents and other chemicals, and last only a few months.
CERAMIC COATING
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is applied to the exterior of the vehicle. The coating chemically bonds to the paint surface. Because this coating bonds to the paint, it lasts longer that traditional waxes and sealants. You can expect it to last 2-4 years or longer if it’s cared for. Ceramic coatings do a great job in protecting against the effects of UV rays, sap, road salts, road chemicals and overall make the vehicle easier to keep clean. These coatings do not wash off easily.
Plastic film is made of thermoplastic urethane. This film is usually used on the areas of the car to most likely get rock chips and minor abrasions. It is the most resistant product to protect against paint damage, but it isn’t usually used to protect the entire vehicle.
WHAT WE RECOMMEND?
So what’s the ultimate paint protection for your car? We recommend using ceramic coating due to its longevity. Waxes and sealants need constant application and aren’t usually applied often enough to offer constant protection. Ceramic coating lasts a long time and offers the best protection. Ceramic coating is the more expensive option and we do recommend you have something over nothing. Waxing and sealing your vehicle is a lot cheaper, and if you can’t afford the ceramic coating route, we do recommend getting a good quality wax or sealant applied. On top of ceramic coating, for the best paint protection, we recommend having a clear film applied to the front of the car in the areas most likely to receive chips.
The combination of ceramic coating and plastic protective film will offer you the ultimate solution to protect your paint surface and add years to the life of your paint.
If you need any other advice about the maintenance of your paint, stop by Collision Pros in Auburn, Chico, Paradise, Woodland or Red Bluff California.
[…] a good wax, but trust me, this is only a band aid on a bigger problem. To find out a little more about waxing, look at my past article on […]
[…] Start by washing your car and getting it into an area where you can see the paint well. The early signs of a paint job that is about to go are, a chalky dull look to the top surfaces that even if buffed, comes back over time. You can slow it down a little by buffing the gloss back and applying a good wax, but trust me, this is only a band aid on a bigger problem. To find out a little more about waxing, look at my past article on wax. […]
[…] You do not want to use a wax or sealer of any kind for the first 90 days. The wax or sealer can seal off the paint and prevent the solvents from evaporating. By preventing the solvents from escaping you can cause all kinds of problems with your paint. After 90 days it’s always a good idea to use a good wax. […]
[…] Keeping your car washed and waxed is the best thing you can do to extend the life of your paint. There are a lot of good wax and paint protection options. I’ve written about some of those options in my blog on, “What’s the best paint protection for my car?” […]
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What's The Best Paint Protection For My Car? ~ Collision Pros
[…] Additional Paint Protection Options There are several more extreme paint protection options like protective film or ceramic coating. I write extensively on these options on my blog, “What’s The Best Paint Protection for My Car?” […]