Category Archives: Ceramic Coatings

IPA wipedown being done on a red Porsche 911.

IPA vs. Panel Wipes: Which Is Better at Removing Polish Residue?

In the world of car detailing, IPA stands for “Isopropyl Alcohol”. Detailers will typically talk about IPA in the context of an “IPA wipedown” or “IPA panel wipe”, a process for cleaning polishing oils and residue from paint before applying protection like a ceramic coating.  Despite being a common topic in detailing, there’s a lot […]

How to wax a black car

The Best Wax for Black Cars (2024) | What to Look For & How to Wax Black Paint

The biggest reason black cars is different than waxing any other color of car is because black shows everything! I have a saying, it goes like this, Black is not a color… it’s a full time job! And that’s a true statement, at least if you’re someone who cares about how your car looks.  But […]

Applying ceramic coating in cold

Can You Apply Ceramic Coating in the Cold?

Ceramic coatings are one of the best ways to protect, maintain and enhance the look of a vehicle’s paint. Here’s the thing, though: ceramic coatings require specific environmental conditions in order to form a durable bond while being applied to the paint.  One of the most important environmental conditions to consider is temperature. If the […]

Close-up example of coating “flashing” on a car surface during application

Flashing: How To Look For It When Coating Your Car

When it comes to vehicle protection and enhancing the visual appeal of your car, ceramic coatings have become a go-to solution for many car enthusiasts and detailing professionals. Ceramic coatings offer a protective layer that bonds with your car’s paint, providing resistance against environmental contaminants, UV rays, and minor scratches, while also delivering a glossy […]

Header image reading “How to Detail New Cars”

How to Detail Your New Car by Mike Phillips (UPDATED 2024)

Taking possession of a brand new car, truck or SUV is a fun and exciting time. You’ve got a beautiful, untouched vehicle ready for you to enjoy… or so you think.  We all assume that being brand new, everything is perfect.  It’s sad to say this is usually not the case. It’s possible, even likely, […]

Water beads on a paint surface treated with Bead Hero.

Do “Ceramic” Coating Sprays Actually Work?

Entry-level ceramic coating sprays like Lifeproof have become a popular choice for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers looking to protect their vehicle’s paintwork. These coatings provide a layer of protection against environmental contaminants, UV damage, and minor scratches, enhancing the appearance and longevity of a car’s finish. However, there are significant differences between entry-level spray […]

Ceramic coating the wheel of a Land Rover, how to clean wheels

How to Apply a Ceramic Coating for Wheels

Wheel protection is one of the most important, yet overlooked, aspects of detailing your vehicle. When it comes to protecting your wheel, it’s best to use a solution that’s durable and doesn’t need to be reapplied frequently. Ceramic coating offers the best of both these approaches. Many people associate ceramic with paints, but it’s also […]

Water beading on a ceramic coating

Why You Need To Maintain Ceramic Coatings

Ceramic coatings are some of the best protection you can get for a vehicle’s paint short of paint protection film. Offering unparalleled durability and shine in comparison to wax or sealants, these coatings provide a long-lasting shield against environmental contaminants, UV rays, and minor scratches.  However, while ceramic coatings are known for their durability, they’re […]

How to Protect the Tesla Cybertruck

How to Protect Tesla Cybertruck Stainless Steel

The Tesla Cybertruck is one of the hottest new EVs on the market, but many are wondering how to protect the stainless steel exterior of this metallic beast. After all, the stainless steel on Tesla Cybertrucks do not have a protective clear coat like most painted cars do. This leaves the metal exposed to environmental […]

Water beads on ceramic coating after rain.

Rain After Ceramic Coating

If you’ve ever applied or considered applying a ceramic coating to a car, you may have heard that you should avoid exposing the new coating to rain or washing it immediately after application. Some coating manufacturers will recommend waiting an hour. Some recommend 24-48 hours. Others say 1-2 weeks.  Why do you need to avoid […]