Glass Coating vs Ceramic Coating: difference & what better
Beauty isn’t in the eye of the beholder in the automotive industry. Having the ultimate shine is the pinnacle of importance to many car owners. For as long as cars have existed, customers have searched for an answer to not only give them the shine they are after, but also protect their prized possession from the elements. While the wax is widely known to cause build up on your car, it is most used. Another option is buffing. However, that can ruin your clear coat. What appears to be the answer to the prayers of the automotive beauty industry, is nano coating as this is most important ever for a number of people who are much involved.
What exactly is Nano Coating?
Let’s break this down. Nano ceramic coating stems from a trick created back in the 9th century in Mesopotamia. Ancient pottery-makers created a glaze with a glittery effect from combining copper, silver salts and oxides. The shimmery luster was used through the Renaissance was definitely distinctive for its time. The term coating’ is a modern term referencing the polymers used.
The polymers – or coating – attaches to the car’s paint surface, forming an inseparable bond. Most bonds, however, loosen over time. Creating the need to get a car recoated to ensure long-term protection. Some nano coatings do claim that their coatings never loosen, meaning you would need to buff your paint and take off part of the clear coat on your car.
But what are the differences between “coatings”? Particularly glass and ceramic?
Glass vs Ceramic Coatings
Glass Coating
Ceramic glass coating consists of particles of silicon dioxide within the hard resin that works to repel contamination and increase shine. It leaves a wet’ look that many in the industry desire. Most coatings are self-cleaning and even delay the buildup of crime and the elements in between cleans.
Ceramic Coating
Ceramic coats, often with 6-8 month durability, provide an excellent combination of protection and shine. The base provides water beading and sheeting properties. It has a high water contract angle to help ensure your vehicle stays dry.
You may have heard these terms in the industry. The names of the coatings, glass and ceramic, may give a misnomer that they are stronger and more durable than previous versions of traditional polymers.
To play devil’s advocate, let’s say the names are not literal. Because if they were, your car would not be able to function as it currently does. The metal would not be able to expand and contract from the heat and cold, and would likely result in cracks over the surface.
These words are more likely a play-on-words to give you an idea of the durability of the product. From a marketer’s standpoint, the more durable the product is, the better. However, you should keep in mind that just because it is durable, doesn’t mean it is the only product you’ll need to keep the shine in tip top shape.
These products also work incredibly well because they require a large amount of preparation before applying it. It is crucial to remove all contaminants from the surface of the car to ensure the coating bonds as it should. This process is often achieved through washing, claying and buffing the car.
Benefits of the Coatings
Unless you have a lot of experience in preparing paint, you’ll likely have to get these coatings done by a professional. In fact, many require an authorized detailer apply it for you. Which may be better in the long run. Much like getting your house professionally painted, it always looks better when it’s done professionally. The prep that is involved ensures that your paint job will never look better.
These coatings have impressive durability. The coatings protect your pain from the elements and contaminants. They also last an incredibly long time and offer protection from light scratches. When comparing to other sealants on the market, they all protect against similar things, however, the longevity of glass and ceramic coats is much longer as the preparation is more significant.
Downsides of Coatings
Deciding as a consumer who is not in an indoor shop creates a different list of pros and cons. You must be able to ensure the surface is 100% clear of blemishes and nicks. It is a multiple stage process to give your vehicle your pristine shine that only these coatings can offer.
It is also to consider the chemicals you will be required to use. Many are extremely harsh and can cause light-headedness. The chemicals contain high levels of VOC’s. Further, the strength of the coating will make any paint corrections more difficult and costly. When you have to repaint, you’ll lose not only the coating but the all the money used in the coating process.
It is a costly expenditure to get the desired look. It is likely to cost four figures to get a professional to do the work for you.
What Else Can be Coated?
It is important to note that paint is not the only area of the car that can be coated. The products are beneficial to more than just paid and can be applied to various areas of the car.
Exterior Trim
Protecting the exterior trim from UV damage and yellowing will help extend the life of the plastic, unpainted panels, and plastic headlights. Most coatings protect for 6 months.
Exterior Glass
Applying coating to the glass on your vehicle will repel both water and dirt from its surface. As an added benefit, it improves vision and reduces contaminants from sticking to its surface.
Wheels
The benefit of coating the face of the wheel is that it limits the upkeep needed, especially for wheels with intricate designs.
Overview
For car enthusiasts who are after a pristine look, you will get what you are after. The nanotechnology first invented by the pottery-makers in Mesopotamia provides you the glistening wet look that will keep your neighbors envious of your most prized possession.
For many car owners, it is worth the expense to maintain their vehicle’s new shine. More often than not, it’s best left to the professionals.
