It's a good question, is it better to use wax or ceramic coating for your car? There are many ways you can answer this question.

One is by the durability of the product.

Another way you might answer this question would be if you want something that cleans off quickly and easily with water or something that lasts longer but takes more time to clean off when needed.

As a car owner, you want to take care of your vehicle for as long as possible. Not only will it keep the value higher, but it also ensures that your car is safe and running well.

One of the most important parts of taking care of your vehicle is applying a ceramic coat or wax on top. It can be difficult to decide which one would be best for your needs!

Let’s take a look at both options below.

What is the difference between Ceramic Coating and Waxing?

First off, let's look at the difference between waxing and ceramic coating.

Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coating is a type of product that can be applied to your car's paint to add durability and shine.  The application usually lasts around six months before needing maintenance again.  A few examples of ceramic coatings are CQuartz, Opti-Coat 2.0, and Silk Coat.

These coatings are usually very thin, about the thickness of a quarter.  They do not go over existing wax or paint protection, so you should remove any layer first. Ceramic coating can easily be buffed off to ensure it is clean before reapplying another coat.

Ceramic coating is different than paint sealant because ceramic coating does not break down with scrubbing or detergents. Ceramic coating is a lot harder and more durable than paint sealant, waxy protection, or wax.

Waxing

Waxing is a different application than ceramic coating.  It creates a layer over the existing paint or coatings on your car to add shine and sometimes protection from UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap, water spots, etc.

Waxes are usually applied by hand through a buffer machine or with an electric waxer.  Waxes are a lot thinner than ceramic coatings and usually only last 3-6 months before reapplication is needed.  Waxing can be applied by hand, but it's much harder to apply evenly and let the wax dry. Once the car is waxed, you can go back over with a buffer machine or electric waxer to ensure the wax is applied evenly.  

After you are done, wash your vehicle as normal with water or car shampoo to remove all of the residue leftovers from waxing.

When it comes to durability, Ceramic Coating is much better than Waxing. Waxes will easily scratch off or rub off if your car is in any way exposed to water. If you use an automatic car wash, wax can be stripped from the abrasiveness of the brushes.

Ceramic Coating will last much longer than waxes, but may still need to be touched up every 6-12 months depending on use.  Ceramic coating is much harder to remove when needed, so you would have to take your vehicle to a professional detailer or do it yourself with a lot of elbow grease.

What is the difference in ease of application?

Both methods can be applied by hand or machine, so this really comes down to personal preference and convenience.  If you prefer to wax your own car and use a buffer, then go with waxing!  It's much easier than applying ceramic coatings by hand or machine.  If you don't like waxing your car yourself, then go with ceramic coating.

The difference in ease of cleaning can vary depending on which method you choose. Wax will be much easier to remove with only water (no detergents or chemicals needed).  If you are in a rush, this is the way to go.  Ceramic coating can be removed with water/shampoo, but it will take longer to remove all of the residue left behind.

The Benefits of Ceramic Coating

There are many benefits to choosing Ceramic Coating over Waxing.

Tough and Durable

Ceramic coating provides a thin layer of protection that will last up to 6 months after application and goes on thin for quick application. It's easy to buff off the remains of ceramic coating to ensure you get a clean bond, so reapplication is easy.

UV Rays Protection

Ceramic coatings block harmful UV rays from damaging your paint. This is important to ensure your car's finish stays healthy and looks good over time!

Hydrophobic Properties

Water will bead off your car's surface after you apply Ceramic Coating. This is very useful to prevent water spots on your finish, so there is no danger of rust or oxidation forming.

Highly Resistant to Contaminants and Scratches

Ceramic coating is extremely resistant to water, bird droppings, tree sap, and other contaminants that could damage the paint.

More Shine Than Waxes

Ceramic coating is different from wax, so of course, it has a better shine than wax!  In fact, you can expect up to 15-25% more shine from ceramic coatings.

The Disadvantages of Ceramic Coating

Expensive

Ceramic coating is expensive and will last about 6 months after application before you should touch up the finish. If you're looking for long-lasting protection, then the ceramic coating is right for you!

Time Consuming

Because ceramic coatings last longer than wax, more time is needed to apply the coating properly.  It will take a little longer to get all of the residues off of your vehicle too - so if you're in a rush, choose to wax over Ceramic Coating!

Detailed Process

Ceramic coating isn't a quick application, so you can expect to spend at least 3 hours in auto detailing after it is prepped.  If you don't have much experience applying coatings, then this can be even longer!

The Benefits of Waxing

Simple to Use

Waxes are usually very easy to apply, so it's a great choice if you don't have much experience with detailing your car. Waxing is also great for people who plan on waxing their car every month or two because its fast and easy application makes maintenance quick!

Heat Resistant

Waxes are great for repelling water, so your car will stay cleaner when it rains.  That means you won't have to worry about your car rusting or forming water spots!

Fast Clean-Up

Waxes are usually all-natural, so they are very easy to remove with just water and a wash mitt.  If you need to be out the door fast, then waxing is for you!

Doesn’t Require Professional Help

If you're not looking for long-lasting protection, then waxing is an easy and affordable way to add protection quickly. You can also buy high-quality waxes that come in kits that allow you to apply the wax perfectly.

The Disadvantages of Waxing

Tough Clean Up

If you wax your car infrequently, then it's easy to miss small areas when applying.  This can result in very easily removing large chunks of wax instead of just the small areas you missed.

Expensive for Monthly Applications

Waxes are usually more expensive than waxing, so this is great if you plan on using them regularly but not great if you don't!

Won't Last

Waxes won't last as long as ceramic coatings and will need reapplication every 3-6 months if your car is exposed to water or other elements.  If you aren't willing to wax every few months, then ceramic coating may be a better option!

Not as Durable

Waxes do not provide as much protection from UV rays and can be damaged by harsh cleaners. If you have a white car and want your vehicle protected from the sun, then you will want to choose a ceramic coating instead.

If You’re Looking for the Best Protection and Longevity, Ceramic Coating Is the Way to Go

If you aren't looking for long-term protection, then waxing is an easy, affordable option. If your car doesn't get dirty easily or you are willing to spend more time on application, then the ceramic coating is a great choice!

As an experienced car detailer company, I would recommend ceramic coating for your car. Ceramic coating is resistant to water, bird droppings, rock chips, tree sap, other contaminants that could damage the paint. It is also UV resistant so it actually blocks harmful light rays from getting into your car's paint and harming it.

If you're looking to protect your car's paint job with a ceramic coating, University Mobile Detailers in Sacramento CA is the perfect place for you. We use the latest and most advanced technologies to apply coatings that will keep your car looking great for years to come. Contact us today to get a free quote on our ceramic coating Sacramento services.