When you invest in your vehicle, it's only natural to want to protect it. Whether from harsh weather conditions, contaminants, or the dreaded rock chips, ensuring your vehicle stays in pristine condition is essential for many automobile enthusiasts. One of the most popular forms of paint protection is ceramic coating, but does it really protect against rock chips?
In this article from the expert team at Paramount Detail in DeBary, FL we will explore more about the protective qualities of ceramic coating and discover whether or not it can prevent rock chips.
What are rock chips?
Before we delve into the efficacy of ceramic coatings, it's imperative to understand what we're up against. Rock chips, often referred to as stone chips, are minuscule fragments that get dislodged from the road when vehicles pass over debris. Propelled at significant speeds, these chips can collide with a car's surface, causing tiny dents, paint chipping, and other forms of minor damage. For those frequently traveling on highways or areas with construction activities, rock chips are an all-too-familiar problem.
Does ceramic coating prevent rock chips?
Ceramic coating is a prominent advancement in car care technology, designed primarily to offer protection for a vehicle's paintwork. Applied as a liquid polymer, ceramic coating forms a bond with a car's factory paint, resulting in a semi-permanent layer on top of the original paint. This protective layer is known for various advantages, such as giving the car a glossy sheen, acting as a repellent to water spots, and providing a defense against environmental contaminants, including bird droppings, tree sap, and UV rays.
However, when it comes to the specific issue of rock chips, the efficacy of ceramic coatings is often misunderstood. While the coating adds a layer of protection, it is not thick or robust enough to effectively guard against the high-velocity impact of rock chips that cars frequently encounter, especially on highways. These chips, propelled at speeds, can create dents, scratches, or chip away the paint.
In essence, while ceramic coatings deliver numerous benefits, preventing rock chip damage isn't one of them. Those seeking to specifically address the threat of rock chips might consider alternatives like paint protection films, which are designed to absorb and disperse the impact of small debris more effectively.
Can you apply ceramic coating over rock chips?
It's possible to apply ceramic coating over rock chips, but it's not always advisable. If the rock chips have damaged the paint, applying a ceramic coat might accentuate the imperfections rather than conceal them. Before applying a ceramic coating, it's recommended to first repair any noticeable rock chips or paint imperfections to achieve the best results.
How can you protect your car against rock chips?
For optimal protection against rock chips, consider investing in paint protection film (PPF). PPF is a clear or colored polyurethane film that's applied to the vehicle's exterior. It's thicker than ceramic coating and has elastic properties that can absorb the impact of small rocks, preventing potential damage. Pairing PPF with ceramic coating can provide comprehensive protection for your vehicle. PPF for impact resistance and ceramic coating for chemical and UV protection.
Can you use PPF and ceramic coating together?
Absolutely! Paint Protection Film (PPF) and ceramic coating can indeed be used together, and many vehicle enthusiasts and experts actually recommend this combination for optimal vehicle protection.
PPF’s primary role is to act as a shield against physical damage, such as rock chips, minor scratches, and road debris. Its elasticity helps absorb impacts, preventing potential damage to the paint underneath.
On the other hand, ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that bonds with the vehicle's surface, offering protection from environmental contaminants, UV rays, and providing a hydrophobic effect which makes cleaning easier and enhances the car's shine.
When used together, PPF provides the physical protection, and the ceramic coating amplifies the PPF's resistance to contaminants, while adding a glossy finish. This combination ensures that a vehicle is not only protected from physical damages but also remains aesthetically pleasing and easier to maintain.
Where can you find the best vehicle protection services in DeBary, FL?
Elevate your vehicle's protection and enhance its beauty with the expertise of Paramount Detail in DeBary, FL. Every car has its unique charm and requires meticulous care, a service we specialize in. By entrusting us with your vehicle, you're not only ensuring its optimal protection but also guaranteeing a rejuvenated and radiant appearance.
Schedule a transformative session for your prized possession today by reaching out to us at (386) 414-6340. Alternatively, experience our commitment to excellence firsthand by visiting our state-of-the-art facility located at 909 S, Charles Richard Beall Blvd, #101, DeBary, FL 32713.
Remember, your vehicle is not just a mode of transport, but a reflection of your personality and style. Give it the premier treatment it truly deserves. At Paramount Detail, we're not just providing a service; we're delivering a promise of perfection.