07/16/2022
A few things I routinely get asked. I'm going to be as honest and transparent as possible...
How much do you charge for ceramic coating?
Well that depends on a few factors starting with your expectations. I tell people that true ceramic coatings start at $700 for cars and small SUVS and $900 for large SUV's and trucks, and to most that's a shocking number (although it's a good bit cheaper than you would pay elsewhere). To apply a coating like that, you MUST at least wash, decontaminate the paint from iron debris and fallout, claybar the paint, do a 1 step polish of the vehicle, and then wipe the vehicle down with isopropyl alcohol to make sure all polishing oils are off of the paint. The product needs to bond with clear coat and you need to make sure that old waxes or sealants are gone. Prices go up to have things like wheels done as well. These coating are applied with a small block and suede cloth in small sections at a time. We have hours tied up in giving this protection.
How long does this coating last and what maintenance is involved?
I use a coating "rated" at 8 years. How long you get out of it depends on the care you give it. You cannot use drive through car washes or spray soaps at the pay car washes. You need to use ph neutral soaps. The ph is too high in those car washes and are not good for the coating. You need to wash your car on a regular basis if it's parked outside. Ceramic topper sprays are necessary to keep that really slick feel to the paint. The hydrophobic properties will remain, but if you like that really slick feel, then you will need to occasionally use a topper. I offer that service for those that don't want to do it themselves.
Does it stop my paint from getting swirl marks?
No. Bad wash practices can still cause swirls even on a coated car. These coatings have a 9H hardness rating and are pretty resilient, but you still need to be mindful of how you wash it. If you bring it to me for the first maintenance wash, I will wash it for free and show you the proper way.
Are there cheaper alternatives?
Yes there are. We can do everything from a a basic car wash, to ceramic coatings or sealants. Spray sealants are considerably cheaper, but the prep is the same at the coating. I refuse to take your money and give you something I wouldn't be happy with on my own vehicle.
I hope this answers any questions you had. I know this is a lot of money to anyone, and I appreciated those of you that have trusted me with your vehicles. I do it because I ENJOY it, not to get rich off of it. Feel free to message me or give me a call at 704-245-9221 and we can discuss your specific needs. If I can't answer, just leave a message and I will definitely return your call.
