Does Ceramic Coating Protect Against Rock Chips?
The question, “Does ceramic coating protect against rock chips?” is a common one among car enthusiasts and owners who want to preserve the pristine condition of their vehicles. Ceramic coatings have gained popularity courtesy of their promise of superior protection and heightened aesthetics.
Knowledge of their capabilities, especially in relation to rock chips, requires a closer look at the properties and functions of these advanced automotive coatings.
Main Functions of Ceramic Coating for Cars
Applied to the exterior of a vehicle, ceramic coatings, also referred to as nano-ceramic coatings are liquid polymers. They bond chemically with the paint, creating a protective layer. This layer is renowned for its hydrophobic properties, which repel water and dirt, making the car easier to clean and maintain.
The coating also provides a high-gloss finish that boosts the vehicle’s appearance, making it look new for longer. However, the main function of ceramic coating for cars is to protect the paint from environmental contaminants like bird droppings, acid rain, and UV rays, which can cause oxidation and fading.
Evaluating Protection Against Rock Chips
To address the question of whether ceramic coating protects against rock chips, it is important to understand the limitations of ceramic coatings. While they do provide excellent protection against many types of damage, the answer to “Does ceramic coating protect against rock chips” is more nuanced. Rock chips pose a unique challenge.
Rock chips are caused by small stones and debris hitting the car at high speeds, resulting in small but noticeable damage to the paint.
Ceramic coatings will provide a certain degree of hardness and can absorb some impact, reducing the severity of minor scratches and swirl marks. But they are not thick nor flexible enough to absorb the full impact of larger rocks or sharp debris that can chip the paint.
Ceramic coatings excel in providing a barrier against chemical stains, oxidation, and UV damage, which can all degrade a vehicle’s paint over time.
They also make the surface smoother and more resistant to minor abrasions. But for complete protection against rock chips, additional measures like paint protection film (PPF) are often recommended.
PPF is a thicker, more durable material designed specifically to absorb impacts from rocks and other debris, for a higher level of protection in this regard.
Combining Automotive Coatings for Optimal Protection
For car owners serious about protecting their vehicles, combining different types of automotive coatings can offer the best results. A ceramic coating along with a paint protection film provides chemical resistance. This combination also offers impact resistance to keep a car looking its best.
The ceramic coating can cover the PPF, boosting its hydrophobic properties. This makes the car easier to clean while maintaining a glossy finish.
Shield Your Surfaces: Rock-Chip Resistant Coatings
A&A Coatings developed a cutting-edge coating solution to combat the persistent problem of rock chips. Our proprietary formula creates a resilient barrier that absorbs impact, preventing unsightly chips and preserving your surface’s integrity.
Ideal for automotive applications, construction equipment, and industrial machinery, this innovative coating greatly reduces maintenance costs and extends component lifespan.
Our thermal spray technology provides for uniform application and superior adhesion, for long-lasting protection against flying debris and harsh environments.
Safeguard your valuable assets from rock chip damage. Call 888-725-0150 or use our online form to reach out and discover our rock-chip-resistant coating solutions.