Why Coatings Cost So Much

We are asked all the time, “why are ceramic coatings so expensive?”, and we understand why people are so curious. After all, most vehicles are successfully coated by a single 30mL bottle of product, so how is it possible that this tiny amount of fluid could be worth over $2000? If you left the math at cost/amount of product, ceramic coatings would be one of the most expensive materials on the planet – but the truth is that there’s much more to coatings than meets the eye.

In order to do a proper cost calculation, you have to consider multiple factors: the product itself, the value you are receiving from the service, and the labour required to complete the service. For more detailed product info, click here.

The cost of ceramic coatings ultimately comes down to the value that they deliver to you, the car owner, and the amount of labour required from us, the detailing shop, to properly apply them. Let’s break down those factors right here.

Value

Unmatched Longevity: Unlike traditional waxes and sealants, ceramic coatings perform at their optimal level year after year. Ceramic coatings free you from your monthly waxing routine without leaving you to worry about your paint being vulnerable to the elements. You’ll save time every month that you would otherwise have to spend waxing your car, and professional-grade products guarantee you the best durability in the industry.

Dazzling Results: Nothing looks as good or protects as well as a high-quality ceramic coating. The glossy finish will amaze you when you first see it, and will continue to amaze you as it endures year after year. Protection from UV radiation, acidic etching, industrial fallout, and light scuffing and scratches will give you peace of mind because you know that your vehicle will continue to look great and maintain its value.

Labour

Paint Repair: Any technician worth their salt won’t even think about opening a bottle of coating before ensuring that the exterior paint of the vehicle is flawless. The goal of a ceramic coating is to protect the underlying paint, so the first step in the process is making sure that the paint is in perfect condition. Technicians will meticulously go over every square centimetre of your vehicle and repair every single scrape, chip, or dent, no matter how tiny. The paint repair necessary for ceramic coatings varies from vehicle to vehicle, but even brand new vehicles out of the factory usually require some work.

Prep Work: After the paint is made perfect, the technician still isn’t ready to start applying the coating. It is now time for the technician to meticulously clean and polish the entire surface of the vehicle. For best results, this job should be performed by someone who is incredibly detail-oriented and in a controlled environment with adequate ventilation to prevent dust or dirt from settling on the paint.

Application: Once the vehicle is finally ready to accept the coating, the technician can begin the application process. If the technician has done their job right, the application should go smoothly. Their attention during this step will be spent making sure that an even layer is applied, this helps with coating performance and durability.

Know Who to Trust

The key to getting the ultimate ceramic coating for your vehicle is taking it to the right shop. It is easy for lazy or inexperienced shops to botch a ceramic coating, leaving your car disfigured and your wallet lighter.

CJ’s Autobling has been the ceramic coating authority for Vancouver Island for the last 15 years, and we have helped thousands of happy clients realize their automotive dreams. Give us a shout to set up an appointment, or simply talk to the experts about your questions.