When you have a vehicle that you love, you want to keep it looking shiny and new for as long as possible – right? Truthfully, we can all agree on this. But here comes the most complicated part. With the world of detailing having evolved so much in the past few years, how do you know which car brands are better, or which products to choose from the myriad of options available both in stores and online? And more importantly, how to not get confused when it comes to understanding the difference between ceramic coat and wax?
The misunderstanding between waxing and ceramic coating stems from the fact that most people were taught to understand that these products are both sealants, and both of them are a form of coating. And although that’s true in many ways, as you will discover by reading this post, not all detailing products are made the same. As the detailing space continues to evolve, paint protection materials are becoming more advanced, and distinct differences are more visible than ever.
To help you get a better idea of “what is what” in the complex world of car detailing, here’s an easy to follow guide on which one to choose between wax and ceramic coating.
What Is Car Wax?
The oldest and most popular type of auto body protectant sold across the globe for many years now is car wax. First developed in the 1800s by using animal fats, today’s car wax results from finely-tuned processes that have elevated the use of natural waxes. These include vegetable wax derived from Copernicia Prunifera Palm tree leaves, beeswax, and oils, as well as synthetic bases.
Changing form from solid to liquid at slightly elevated temperatures, wax compounds add a layer of protection to the car’s paint while also making your vehicle shine like never before. In the automotive world, the most common types of waxes used are carnauba, montana and paraffin. Compared to a ceramic coat, wax gives a deeper, glossier finish but breaks down a lot quicker.
What Is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a chemical polymer solution that is applied to the exterior of a vehicle to protect it from external paint damage. Typically composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), which is sourced from natural materials such as quartz and sand, ceramic coating is one of the hottest trends right now in terms of paint finishers. And although ceramic coating was initially provided only by professional detailing shops, today you can also find DIY kits which are similar to, and sometimes even better than professional services. Top level products like Nexgen Ceramic spray or Torque Detail have adapted the highest-level, best-performing technology, and put it in the most mainstream and most accessible products possible. To discover more about what these top of the line products can do for your car, you can read some trusted car care reviews that offer valuable content and comparison features to consumers.
