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  • Writer's pictureDynax Detailing Co.

Ceramic coating vs Wax


Wax


Carnauba wax comes from Copernica Prunifera palm tree leaves found in Northern Brazil. The wax comes from a discharge produced by the leaves, which hardens protecting itself from harsh UV rays.


To create a paste wax used in the automotive market, the combination of beeswax and other solvents are used creating an applicable product. Once applied, the wax will harden and act as a topcoat to any painted panel it is applied to.


Synthetic wax / Sealant


Synthetic polymers or artificial ingredients are sued to create a more durable product than carnauba wax, although it lasts longer many will argue it won't achieve that deep, rich, glossy shine we all crave on our finished paintwork.


Longevity


It's very difficult to specify how long an application of wax will last. This is due to varying conditions that your car could be exposed to and, most importantly, whether the wax has been applied correctly - with Isopropyl panel wipe prior to application and sufficient cure time allowing the wax to bond. Generally speaking, a carnauba wax can last up to 4/5 months, depending on the carnauba content in the product. A synthetic wax/sealant can last up to 12 months.


Ceramic coating


Before discussing the technological terms, it's good to understand what a ceramic coating is. Think of it as an invisible second layer of skin that protects the clear coat of your vehicle's paintwork. It is to paintwork what sun cream is to human skin in the hot summer sun.


Nanotechnology are tiny particles (liquid polymer derived from silica) that conjoin together to create a very thin transparent layer, and once applied will harden. Just like our skin, paint has pores. With nano particles now filling these pores, an equal, smooth, transparent sheet prevents any dirt, acid rain, UV rays attacking and causing

defects to your car's paintwork. With this new second skin acting as a protective barrier, your paintwork is now extremely hydrophobic due to surface tension, resistant

to scratches, chemical pollutants, bird lime and harsh UV rays.


Longevity


Unlike a wax or sealant, due to its semi-permanent bond, you can be much more confident in the durability of a ceramic coating. Depending on your chosen product, a ceramic coating can typically last between 2-9 years. The variations of coatings available are vast, with the application of some more complex than others. Prices typically reflect this.


A huge benefit of a ceramic coating is maintenance. Upon regular washes, water sheets and beads form on the car effortlessly, resulting in an easier hassle-free drying process. The coating also ensures any potential marring whilst carrying out a contact wash, doesn't damage your car's paintwork.




Summary


It's hard to argue that a ceramic coating isn't a superior choice to that of a wax or sealant. However, before choosing which protective coating is best for your car, there are some questions to consider prior to making a decision;

  • What is your budget?

  • How regularly is the vehicle maintained?

  • What condition is your paintwork in?

If ceramic coating is the protection for you, remember you are closing the pores of your paintwork and locking in any imperfections for years to come. With this in mind, a single stage machine polish is recommended at a minimum to remove defects in your paintwork, prior to applying a ceramic coating.

Dynax Detailing Co. offer a variety of wax/sealant and ceramic coatings, depending on your requirements. Find out more about our valeting and detailing services, visit www.dynaxdetailing.co.uk/services.

Get in touch with us to make a booking.


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