3 Signs You Need to Apply a Second Coat of Ceramic Coating
I'm sure every car detailing enthusiast understands how important it is to protect your car's paintwork in perfect, glossy condition.
The latest method of achieving this for a sustained length of time and with minimum maintenance is to apply a ceramic coating.
But how many coats of ceramic coating should you apply?
A single coat of ceramic coating will provide excellent durability and hydrophobic qualities.
However, it is inevitable that due to the weather conditions, direct sunlight, acid rain, bird droppings and other factors a second coat can become necessary.
Even if your first coat has been applied in a professional detailers these factors can still reduce its appearance.
In this blog post, I will explain the three signs that indicate it's time to apply a second coat of ceramic coating to your car's paint.
Fading or Diminishing Hydrophobic Effect
A popular feature of Ceramic Coating is its ability to create a super hydrophobic effect. This means that after each shower of rain or indeed after every wash the waters beads up and rolls effortlessly off the car surface.
But over time this hydrophobic effect may start to fade and water droplets may not separate and bead up, but stay in mini puddles on the surface. Causing a more dabbled effect with irregular shape poodles of beads instead of the regular form of a hydrophobic layered surface.
This is the most noticeable indicator that the original coating is losing its properties and wearing thin and a sure sign that the initial application needs a second ceramic coating is needed to restore its effectiveness.
If hydrophobic properties such as surface beading is important to you then we can recommend the following Ceramic Coatings.
Gtechniq Crystal Serum Ultra
This super hydrophobic coating will give you the most effective water beading your ever likely to see! After every wash or shower of rain your car will be coated with perfectly spaced water droplets. The tell tale sign of a superbly ceramic coated car!
CarPro Cquartz UK 3.0
Another equally good hydrophobic ceramic coating is the Car Pro Cquartz. This complete kit includes everything you would need to complete as super hydrophobic second coating, be it your first or your tenth coating!
Surface Scratches and Swirl Marks
Unless your car never leaves the garage it has to be susceptible to contact with everyday items that can cause swirl marks or surface scratches.
These can be caused when you wash your car if you're not using the correct method. By road debris such as rock salt chips or may other environmental factors
Your first layer of ceramic coating will protect and absorb many of these abrasions but repeated exposure to these situations will gradually wear down the effectiveness of the coating.
Noticing a number of light scratches or swirl marks on the surface of your car is also an indication that the current ceramic coating is losing its properties and may benefit from the application of a second coat.
This will provide an extra layer of protection and reduce any further potential damage.
However, please note that any severe scratches or swirl marks in the first layer ceramic coating may need some polishing before you apply the second coat.
And a good overall paint correction could be employed to ensure all faults are reduced.
You could use a good cutting compound for this to ensure that the blemishes become less noticeable as otherwise they will likely just show through the new layer
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RUPES D-A Coarse High Performance Cut - Polishing Compound
Rupes Cutting Compound is the ideal solution if you need to remove those ever present swirl marks and scratches on the first coat before the second coat is applied. It will usually only take one good pass over with the super performance compound but some deeper scratches may take two.
Loss of Gloss and Shine
Any new coat of ceramic coating creates incredible depth of gloss and an enviable shine that turns heads everywhere you drive.
However, due to exposure to UV rays, harsh weather conditions, airborne pollutants and just the passage of time a coating will lose its luster.
If you notice a significant dulling or lack of deep shine in your ceramic coating then this is a clear sign it's time for a second coat to liven up the older one.
This one may be a little beyond though!!
To restore that deep, showroom glow it first showed you can apply a fresh layer of ceramic coating and watch it transform to that new car shine!
Once you have inspected for the three signs of a weakening ceramic coating and deiced to apply one ots best to know just how to do it.
Therefore, we have put together a second coating plan to prepare and apply a coating.
Here it is a Step by Step guide to applying a second layer of ceramic coating.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prepare the surface | Ensure the car surface is washed thoroughly with a pH neutral shampoo. Ideally use a foam cannon and the two bucket wash method to remove all grime and grit. Next, give the entire vehicle a full clay bar to remove all surface contaminants. Final stage of preparation is to use a good polish to give any paint correction that is needed. As it is essential for best results the original ceramic coating is as perfect as can be. |
| Inspection | Inspect the whole car paint for signs of fading, poor hydrophobicity or lack of glossy shine. Equally as important, check for any areas that may have sustained any damage or become completely worn out. As these could need more than one coat. |
| Surface Decontamination | To get the best results from applying a second ceramic coat it is essential that the surface is decontaminated. This is best done with isopropyl alcohol solution wipes. This step is crucial to ensure proper adhesion of the second coat on top of the first coat. |
| Application of the Second Coat | Properly mix the ceramic coating product by shaking it well. Start by applying a small amount to an applicator pad and test it on a small inconspicuous area to ensure good coverage. Apply the coat to a small section at a time, making sure the application is even and in straight lines. Overlap each section to ensure complete coverage. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent streaking. Give extra attention and an additional layer to areas identified as faded or worn off. Follow the recommended curing time before moving to the next step. |
| Curing and Protection | Once the curing period has elapsed, use a microfiber towel to gently wipe away any high spots or excess coating. The newly applied coat should not be exposed to rain or water until it has finally cured. |
| Maintenance and Aftercare | Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for post-application maintenance and aftercare. Regularly wash and maintain the ceramic coating to prolong its durability. |
Conclusion
To apply a second layer of ceramic coating is a simple process that can provide superior protection and lengthen durability for your vehicle's paint.
It's important to follow the instructions provided by the ceramic coating manufacturer for the best finish and longevity. Manufacturers instruct
After the second application, regular maintenance is key. Avoid
Automatic car washes should be avoided with a car that's had a second coating. Hand wash at least initially using a pH-neutral shampoo and a clean microfiber towel.
Doing this will help prevent scratching and maintain the surface of the ceramic coating.
A market check is always recommended for ceramic coating services, as often professional ceramic coating companies have special offers on.
Coatings such as Ceramic Pro, offer high-end packages that include multiple layers of ceramic coating for optimum protection.
These coatings are scratch resistant and provide an additional protective layer against the elements.
To summarise, applying a second layer of ceramic coating can enhance the protection and durability of your vehicle's paint. It will also enhance the appearance of your car and is a great first step to get any car in good condition. Additional layers should never be needed.
With the right products, proper application techniques, and regular maintenance, ceramic coatings can provide an exceptional level of protection and keep your vehicle looking its best for a long time