How Can I Maintain My Ceramic Coating Year Round?

[Host] Welcome back to another episode of Ask Divergent, where we, uh, you know, tackle your most pressing car care questions.

[Guest] That’s right.

[Host] Today’s question is one that we hear often, especially from our clients who’ve invested in high quality paint protection.

[Guest] Yeah.

[Host] What’s the best way to maintain a ceramic coating on my car year round?

[Guest] hmm hmm

[Host] You likely already know that ceramic coatings are amazing at protecting your car’s paint.

[Guest] For sure.

[Host] But what’s often missed is the crucial maintenance part.

[Guest] Yeah.

[Host] That’s what we’re diving deep into today.

[Guest] It’s great that so many people are choosing to protect their cars with ceramic coatings, but like any investment, you’ve got to maintain it to really Reap the benefits for years to come.

[Host] Okay, so you’ve got this amazing nanoceramic shield on your car.

[Guest] Right.

[Host] What are the absolute must dos to keep it in top shape, especially here in location with varying seasons?

[Guest] Well, one thing that often surprises people is the importance of a yearly professional checkup.

[Host] Oh, okay.

[Guest] Most reputable detailers will offer this for ceramic coated cars. It usually runs around 250. And I know some people think, why bother if the coating is supposed to last for years?

[Host] Yeah, that’s a fair question. I’ll admit, when I first heard about that, I thought it was a bit much, especially since I’m pretty good at taking care of my car myself. So why is this annual checkup so crucial?

[Guest] It’s all about what you don’t see. Over a year, your car is bombarded with things like

[Host] Oh, right.

[Guest] Bird droppings, tree sap, industrial fallout, even the minerals in rainwater. The coating handles this much better than bare paint, but microscopically it does wear down.

[Host] So even though the car looks shiny? There could be damage happening at a level we don’t notice.

[Guest] Exactly. And that’s where the checkup comes in. Think of it as catching a cavity early before it needs a root canal.

[Host] right

[Guest] Our detailers inspect the coating’s thickness, its hydrophobic properties, and look for any early signs of etching or staining.

[Host] Okay. 

[Guest] Often a simple decontamination treatment during the checkup is enough to get things back on track.

[Host]Mm hmm.

[Guest] But if you wait too long, you might need more extensive and expensive repairs.

[Host] That makes a lot of sense.

[Host] Yeah. It’s like preventative maintenance saving you money and hassle in the long run.

[Guest] Exactly. Now between those annual checkups, the biggest thing you can do to maintain your ceramic coating is, drum roll please,

[Host] uh huh,

[Guest] washing your car correctly.

[Host] I know what you’re thinking. Washing.

[Guest] Yeah.

[Host] Pretty basic.

[Guest] Yeah.

[Host] But honestly, before I got into this,

[Guest] Right.

[Host] I probably wasn’t watching my car the right way either.

[Guest] Yeah, I hear that a lot.

[Host] So, walk us through it. What are the common mistakes people make, even if they’re trying to be careful?

[Guest] You’d be surprised how many people unknowingly damage their coating with improper washing.

[Host] Oh, really?

[Guest] Using harsh brushes or old sponges is a huge culprit.

[Host] Okay.

[Guest] Those can create tiny scratches, what we call micro marring, that dull the shine, especially on dark paint.

[Host] Wait, so even if I’m being gentle, the wrong tools can mess things up. I’m guilty of using an old sponge sometimes.

[Guest] Yeah.

[Host] So what should we be using instead?

[Guest] High quality microfiber is your best friend. Microfiber towels and wash mitts are designed to lift dirt away without grinding it into the surface.

[Host] So those tiny little fibers are actually helping to protect the coating as we wash. Interesting.

[Host] Exactly. Think of it this way. Those microscopic grit particles, even if you can’t see them, are like sandpaper on the nano coating, causing those micro scratches over time.

[Host]Oh, I see.

[Guest] Microfiber helps prevent that. Another mistake people make is using dish soap or other harsh detergents. Right. They can strip away the protective layer of the coating, leaving it vulnerable to damage.

[Host] Okay, so high quality microfiber and the right soap are Crucial.

[Guest] Yes.

[Host] What else is important when it comes to washing technique? I’ve heard the term two bucket method thrown around a lot. Right. What’s that all about and why is it so important for maintaining a ceramic coating?

[Guest] The two bucket method is a game changer.

[Host] Okay.

[Guest] It’s about minimizing cross contamination.

[Host] Got it.

[Guest] You have one bucket with your soapy water solution and another with clean water for rinsing your wash mitt. This way you’re not transferring dirt and grime back onto your car as you wash.

[Host] That makes a lot of sense. Yeah. I’m realizing I’ve definitely been guilty of just using one bucket and probably spreading dirt around without even realizing it.

[Guest] Happens to the best of us.

[Host] Okay. Two buckets, microfiber, and pH neutral car soap. Mm  hmm. Got it.

[Guest] You got it.

[Host] Anything else we need to remember during the wash?

[Guest] Drying is just as important as washing.

[Host] Oh really?

[Guest] Water spots and mineral deposits, especially from hard water, can dull the shine and weaken the coating over time.

[Host] Oh man. I live in an area with hard water. So what’s the best way to dry a car with a ceramic coating?

[Guest] A dedicated drying aid. Or a ceramic compatible detail spray is a great investment. It not only helps you dry the car without scratching, it also adds a little boost to the hydrophobic properties of the coating.

[Host] So it’s like giving the coating a little extra help to repel water and stay shiny.

[Guest] Exactly. You want that water beating up and rolling off. Right. Taking any remaining dirt with it.

[Host] Okay, that all makes sense. Now, I know we’re gonna talk about DIY tips later. Right. But for those of us who want the pros to handle it,

[Guest] Yeah,

[Host] you mentioned something called VIP washes earlier.

[Guest] Yes.

[Host] Tell us more about those.

[Guest] Our VIP washes aren’t just about getting your car clean, they’re an educational experience. Oh,

[Host] wow.

[Guest] We use all the techniques we’ve been talking about, the two bucket method. Right. High quality microfiber, pH neutral soap. Proper drying techniques and clients can actually watch and learn.

[Host] That’s a really cool idea. Yeah. So it’s like a car wash and a masterclass in one.

[Guest] Exactly. Yeah. And we have different VIP wash frequency options from weekly to monthly. Got it. Depending on your needs and budget. It’s a great way to ensure your ceramic coating is getting the consistent gentle care it needs to stay in top shape.  Annual checkups and careful washing are the two pillars of ceramic coating maintenance.

[Host] Yes. But what about the DIY folks out there?

[Guest] We’re going to dedicate a whole section to that.

[Host] Okay. But are there any quick tips for those who prefer to wash their cars themselves?

[Guest] Absolutely. We’ll dive deeper later, but the biggest things to remember are high quality microfiber, pH neutral soap, and the two bucket method.

[Host] Got it. And if you’re unsure about any aspect of DIY maintenance Don’t hesitate to ask us. We’re always here to help.

[Guest] This has been incredibly insightful already, but we’re just getting started. When we come back, we’ll delve into those DIY tips for maintaining your ceramic coating at home. So stay tuned.

 [Host] Sounds good. Alright, so before we, uh, went to a break, we were talking about those VIP washes and how they can be a great option for those who want to leave their ceramic coating maintenance to the pros.

[Guest] Right,

[Host] but let’s get real. Not everyone can swing a professional wash every week. And some people actually enjoy getting hands on with their car care.

[Guest] Yeah, I hear you.

[Host] So for those DIYers out there, what are the absolute essentials for maintaining their ceramic coating at home?

[Guest] You already know the basics, high quality microfiber, the two bucket method, a pH neutral soap specifically designed for car washing, not dish soap.

[Host] Right.

[Guest] But let’s get into some of those finer points that can make a big difference in the long run.

 [Host] Perfect, because I know I’m always looking for those extra tips and tricks to really level up my car care game.

[Guest] One thing that’s often overlooked is the importance of pre washing. Before you even touch your car with a wash mitt, you want to rinse off any loose dirt and grime.

[Host] So kind of like a pre rinse cycle on a dishwasher.

[Guest] Exactly. This helps prevent those larger particles from scratching the surface as you wash. Got it. And speaking of gentle care, that’s even more crucial as seasons change.

[Host] Oh, right. Let’s tackle winter first.

[Guest] Okay. That’s where most people slip up.

[Host] Good point. Winter here can be brutal. Yeah. Especially with all the road salt and grime.

[Guest] Right.

[Host] So what are some key things we need to keep in mind during those colder months when it comes to maintaining our ceramic coating?

[Guest] Winter is all about staying ahead of the salt and grime buildup. You’ll want to wash your car more frequently, maybe every one to two weeks, depending on how much salt you’re exposed to.

[Host] Yeah, I’ve definitely noticed my car gets much dirtier in the winter, even if it hasn’t snowed.

[Guest] Yeah, for sure.

[Host] So more frequent washes in the winter, got it. Yeah. Any other Woodruff specific tips?

[Guest] Pay special attention to the undercarriage in real wells. They get the most exposure to road salt. A good undercarriage spray at the car wash can be helpful, but you can also DIY it with a garden hose and a specialized nozzle.

[Guest] Makes sense. Out of sight, out of mind.

[Guest] Right.

[Host] But that salt can really do some damage if it’s left to sit there all winter.

[Guest] Exactly. Now as the weather warms up and we head into spring, Okay. You might notice a different type of challenge. Tree sap.

[Host] Ugh, yes. Tree sap can be a nightmare to remove. What’s the best way to deal with it without harming the ceramic coating?

[Guest] Patience is key. Don’t try to scrub it off as that can scratch the surface. Instead, use a dedicated sap remover product.

[Host] Oh, okay.

[Guest] These are formulated to dissolve the sap without damaging the coating.

[Host] So it’s like a specialized solvent for tree sap. That’s good to know. I’ve definitely tried to scrub sap off before and it never ends well.

[Guest] And speaking of spring, this is a great time to give your car a thorough decontamination treatment after a long winter of salt and grime exposure. Right. You can use a specialized iron remover to dissolve those stubborn iron particles from brake dust and industrial fallout. Then follow up with a clay bar or a synthetic clay bit to physically lift off any remaining contaminants.

[Host[]You mentioned decontamination before, and I’m still not entirely sure what that entails. Oh,

[Guest] sure.

[Host[ Can you walk us through the process?

[Guest] Sure. Decontamination is like a deep clean for your car’s paint.

[Host] Okay.

[Guest] It removes those microscopic contaminants that regular washing can’t touch. Got it. Chemical decontamination uses specialized products like iron removers, tar removers, and fallout removers to dissolve those stubborn particles. You spray them on, let them dwell for a few minutes, and then rinse them off. It’s actually pretty satisfying to see all that contamination dripping off your car.

[Host] That sounds like it. And what about the physical decontamination you mentioned?

[Guest] Physical decontamination involves using a clay bar, or a synthetic clay mitt, along with a lubricant spray to gently lift off any remaining contaminants.It’s a bit like using Play Doh on your car’s paint.

[Host] Wow, okay.

[Guest] You glide the clay bar across the surface, and it picks up all those tiny embedded particles.

[Host] That sounds a little intimidating. Is it something a DIYer can handle or is it better to leave it to the professionals?  You can definitely tackle chemical decontamination at home.

[Guest] There are many great products available specifically for this purpose. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

[Host] Okay.

[Guest] Physical decontamination requires a bit more technique and practice. If you’re not comfortable with it, it’s best to have a professional detailer handle it during your annual checkup.

[Host] Got it. So decontamination is like a reset button for the paint.

[Guest] Exactly.

[Host] Removing all those microscopic contaminants that have accumulated over time.

[Guest] Exactly. And it’s essential for keeping your ceramic coating performing at its best.

[Host] Alright, so we’ve covered winter and spring. What are some things we should be doing to protect our ceramic coating during those scorching hot months?

[Guest] Summer is all about protecting your car from the intense sun and heat. UV rays can fade the color and cause the clear coat to oxidize even with a ceramic coating. So even with the ceramic coating, we still need to worry about sun damage.

[Guest] Yes, absolutely. The coating provides great UV protection, but it’s not invincible.

[Host] Okay.

[Guest] The best way to protect your car from the sun is to park it in a garage or shaded area whenever possible.

[ Host] That makes sense. But what if you don’t have access to covered parking? I know I usually end up parking outside during the day.

[Guest] If you have to park in the sun, a car cover can be a lifesaver. It’ll help block those harmful UV rays and keep your car cooler as well. Another thing to consider is a ceramic coating booster spray. Oh, right. You can apply this after each wash for extra protection and enhanced hydrophobic properties.

[Host] It’s like giving your coating a little extra sunscreen for the summer.

[Guest] Exactly. It helps to replenish the protective layer and maintain that water beating magic.

[Host] Great tips. Now, before we move on to fall, I wanted to go back to something we discussed earlier, those automated car washes.

[Guest] Yeah.

[Host] You mentioned that they’re not ideal for ceramic coatings. Can you elaborate on why?

[Guest] Sure. The main issue with automated car washes, especially those with the big spinning brushes, is that they can be quite abrasive. Oh, I see. Those brushes pick up dirt and debris from other cars. Yeah. And even if they’re supposedly soft, Right. They can still create tiny scratches in your coating over time.

[Host] Okay.

[Guest] I had a client who swore by those washes. Brought their car in after a year. The coating was hazy. We had to do a multi step paint correction to fix the damage.

[Host] Wow.

[Guest] It ended up costing them way more than if they had just hand washed their car or opted for our touchless VIP washes.

[Host] Wow, that’s a cautionary tale. So it’s really about avoiding anything that could potentially scratch or damage the coating.

[Guest] Exactly.  Remember, even though a ceramic coating is durable, it’s not indestructible.

[Host] Right.

[Guest] It needs to be treated with care to maintain its performance and appearance.

[Host] Okay, so we’ve covered spring, summer, and winter. What about fall? What are some key things we should be doing to prepare our ceramic coating for the upcoming winter months?

[Guest] Fall is a great time to give your car another thorough decontamination treatment, removing any lingering summer grime and contaminants. This will help ensure that your ceramic coating is in optimal condition to face the challenges of winter.

[Host] It sounds like those decontamination treatments are essential for maintaining a ceramic coating throughout the year.

[Guest] They really are. They help to keep the coating clean and free of contaminants, allowing it to do its job effectively.

[Host] Any other tips for fall?

[Guest] You can also consider applying a sealant or a spray wax over your ceramic coating for additional protection.

[Host] Oh, right.

[Guest] This will provide an extra layer of defense against the harsh winter elements, and make it easier to remove any road salt or grime that does accumulate. Think of it as winterizing your car’s paint.

[Host] I like that analogy. So we’re going into winter fully prepared and protected.

[Guest] Exactly. And that brings us to another important aspect of maintaining your ceramic coating.

[Host] Those annual professional checkups we talked about earlier.

[Guest] Right.

[Host] We touched on them briefly, but I think it’s worth diving a little deeper. So, for those who might be hesitant to spend the money on a yearly professional checkup. What would you say to convince them it’s worth it?

[Guest] I understand the hesitation, but think of it this way. You’ve already invested a significant amount of money in a ceramic coating to protect your car’s paint. The annual checkup is a small price to pay to ensure that investment is paying off and your coating is performing at its best.

[Host] So it’s like insurance for your ceramic coating.

[Guest] Exactly. During these checkups, we do a thorough inspection of the coating.

[Host] Okay. Using specialized tools and lighting to detect any issues that might not be visible to the naked eye.

[Host] Okay, so walk us through it. What exactly happens during a professional checkup?

[Guest] First, we do a thorough wash and decontamination to remove any surface contaminants. Then, we carefully inspect the coating’s thickness using a paint thickness gauge. This tells us if there are any areas where the coating has worn through.

[Host] So it’s not just about how it looks on the surface, you’re actually measuring the coating itself.

[Guest] Exactly. We also check the coating’s hydrophobic properties. Okay. Using a water beading test to assess its ability to repel water. And we look for any signs of etching, staining, or other damage.

[Host] So it’s very comprehensive evaluation of the coating’s condition.

[Guest] It is. And based on our findings, we’ll recommend the appropriate course of action. It might be as simple as a decontamination treatment or a light polish to remove minor imperfections. Or if we find areas where the coating has worn thin or become damaged, we might recommend a spot reapplication.

[Host] Hold on. That makes the checkup cost unpredictable. How often do you actually find people need that extra step, the spot reapplication? Because that’s what makes me nervous about these things, not knowing how much it’s going to cost in the end.

[Guest] That’s a valid concern. Honestly, most of the time a good decontamination and a light polish are enough to restore the coating to like new condition. Spot reapplication is usually only necessary if there’s been some sort of damage to the paint like a deep scratch or bird dropping that wasn’t removed promptly.

[Host] So you’re really looking for those early signs of wear and tear to prevent those bigger more costly issues down the road.

[Guest] Exactly. And that’s the beauty of these annual checkups. They allow us to proactively maintain the coding and address any potential issues before they become major problems.

[Host] That makes me feel much better. I’m starting to see the value in these professional checkups, even for us DIY enthusiasts.

[Guest] It’s all about peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected and your car is looking its best.

[Host] Well, this has been incredibly insightful. I’m feeling much more knowledgeable about maintaining my car’s ceramic coating, both at home and with the help of the pros.

[Guest] I’m glad to hear that. Remember, maintaining a ceramic coating is a partnership. By working together, we can keep your car looking amazing for years to come.

[Host] Great. We’ll be back after a quick break to wrap up our deep dive into maintaining your car’s ceramic coating. Alright, we’re back, ready to wrap up our deep dive into maintaining your car’s ceramic coating.

[Host] Yeah, I think we’ve covered just about everything from washing and decontamination to seasonal considerations and the importance of those annual professional checkups.

[Guest] Yeah, we’ve definitely thrown a lot of information at our listeners today. But before we let them go, I wanted to bring it all back to the bigger picture.

[Host] Yes, let’s talk about the why behind all this effort. Why is maintaining a ceramic coating so important in the grand scheme of things?

[Guest] Exactly. It’s easy to get caught up in the details of washing and decontamination, but what’s the real payoff here?

[Host] What are the long term benefits of properly maintaining a ceramic coating?

[Guest] Well first and foremost, it’s about protecting your investment. A ceramic coating isn’t cheap, but if you take care of it, it can significantly extend the life of your car’s paint.

[Host] So it’s not just about keeping the car shiny for a few years, it’s about actually preserving the value of the vehicle in the long run.

[Guest] Precisely. A well maintained ceramic coating can make a big difference when it comes time to resell or trade in your car. Think about it. A car with pristine paint that looks a year younger than its actual age is going to command a higher price.

[Host] That’s a great point. It’s like an investment that pays off down the road.

[Guest] Exactly. And beyond the financial benefits, there’s also the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car’s paint is protected from the elements. You’re less likely to get those swirl marks and scratches that can make a car look dull and aged.

[Host] It’s about preserving that just drove off the lot. Look for as long as possible.

[Guest] Yes. And let’s not forget the ease of maintenance. A ceramic coated car is much easier to clean. Dirt and grime don’t stick as easily, so washing is quicker and less of a chore.

[ Host] That’s a huge plus, especially for someone like me who doesn’t always have a ton of time to spend washing my car.

[Guest] And remember all those contaminants we talked about?Bird droppings, tree sap, road salt. A ceramic coating makes them much easier to remove.

[Host]Okay, so we’ve got the financial benefits, the peace of mind, and the ease of maintenance. Any other perks we should mention?

[Guest] Well, a lot of people don’t realize this, but a ceramic coating can actually enhance the gloss and shine of your car’s paint. It creates a deeper, richer look that really makes the color pop.

[Host]So it’s not just about protection, it’s about enhancing the beauty of the car as well.

[Guest] Absolutely, and that’s something you’ll appreciate every time you see your car gleaming in the sunlight.

[Host] Well, this has been an incredible deep dive. I’m feeling much more informed and empowered to take care of my ceramic coating and reap all those benefits we’ve discussed.

[Guest] Remember, It’s a journey, not a destination. Maintaining a ceramic coating requires ongoing effort, but it’s an investment that pays off in so many ways.

[Host] Absolutely. And if our listeners have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Divergent Elite Detailing. We’re always happy to help.

[Guest] We’re passionate about car care, and we want to see your cars looking their best.

[Host] Thanks for tuning in, everyone! Until next time, remember, drive safe, care for your cars, and enjoy that showroom shine.

See you next time!