Does Ceramic Coating Protect Against Rock Chips?
Ceramic coating has quickly become one of the most popular protective measures for vehicles, offering a glossy finish and impressive protection from the elements. But let's cut to the question that's on your mind—does ceramic coating protect your vehicle against rock chips? Spoiler alert: it's not a magical force field, but it can help in some areas.
What Does Ceramic Coating Actually Do?
Ceramic coating is like a superhero suit for your vehicle. Made from liquid polymers (typically silicon dioxide or similar materials), it bonds with your vehicle's paintwork to create a long-lasting, protective layer.
Here's what ceramic coating brings to the table:
Shield From Environmental Damage
It protects your vehicle from UV rays, oxidation, bird droppings, and acid rain, keeping your paint job vibrant and fresh!
Easy-To-Clean Surface
It's hydrophobic, meaning water and dirt have a tough time sticking to your vehicle. Translation? Less scrubbing for you and more time to hit the road.
Enhanced Gloss and Shine
Ceramic coating elevates that factory-fresh shine to a mirror-like finish that you can't stop admiring.
It’s an unbeatable option for protecting and preserving your vehicle’s look, but every superpower has its limits.
Can Ceramic Coating Protect Against Rock Chips?
Alright, here's the deal. While ceramic coating is fantastic at guarding your vehicle's surface from scratches, swirl marks, and minor abrasions, it’s not built to handle the heavy-duty impacts of flying rocks or gravel.
Imagine a pebble kicked up by a speeding truck—it’s coming at your vehicle with serious force. Ceramic coating, being just a thin protective layer, isn’t strong enough to absorb that kind of impact. A rock chip can break through it and ding your paint, plain and simple.
That said, ceramic coating may provide some help by acting as a "buffer" between the paint and the projectile. However, don’t rely on it as your sole defense against rock chips if you're driving on gravel roads or highways often.
If Rock Chips Are a Concern – Consider PPF!
If rock chips are keeping you up at night, don’t panic—we’ve got you covered! Your best bet is to pair ceramic coating with Paint Protection Film (PPF), also known as a clear bra.
PPF is a thick, self-healing film designed to absorb the impact of rocks, gravel, and other debris. Plus, the self-healing properties allow minor scratches or scuffs to fade away with heat. Here's how this dynamic duo works when paired together:
- Ceramic Coating + PPF = The Ultimate Protection
- PPF handles the heavy hits from rock chips.
- Ceramic coating keeps your vehicle glossy, easy to clean, and UV-protected.
Combined, these two products are like PB&J—they just work better together.
The Bottom Line
Ceramic coating is a game-changer in protecting your vehicle’s paint from scratches, environmental damage, and dirt. But when it comes to full-on rock chip protection, it’s not the hero you need. For ultimate defense, layering ceramic coating with Paint Protection Film (PPF) is the way to go.
Have questions about ceramic coating or PPF? Contact Elevated Auto Protection for the answers to your questions—we’d love to help!
