What to Expect from a Professional Ceramic Coating Service

OK then… You’ve researched all things ceramic, chatted with some installers, and booked your ceramic coating appointment. The day has arrived to drop off your pride and joy. So, what happens next?

While every professional ceramic coating process will have its own nuances, the general procedure should follow a time-proven track.

A Step-by-Step Guide to What Happens During Ceramic Coating

Prior to handing over your precious ride, your provider should have carried out a paintwork assessment. This is to ensure that the surface is in an adequate condition to apply the product. A ceramic coating is installed in liquid format, meaning it seeps into every tiny nook and crevice. If these are large, extensive, or too severe for paint correction, these will be highlighted once the coating cures.

This brings us neatly onto the first (and, arguably, most important) stage of the professional ceramic coating process, the prep…

Stage 1: the initial deep clean

This starts with a thorough wash to remove every trace of dirt and dust. The shampoo won’t contain any wax or other additives—this is purely to get rid of everything and anything that’s on the paintwork. The car will be dried and then clay-barred.

This step is essential, as things like tree sap and other contaminants will prevent the coating from adhering to the paintwork and be noticeable beneath it. It also ensures that any previous sealants or waxes are entirely removed. 

Depending on the preference of your installer, this stage might be performed in the open air or in a semi-sterile environment.

Stage 2: prepping the paintwork

Once clean, the installer will meticulously examine the paintwork and perform any necessary corrections. This involves removing any light scratches, whirls, watermarks, oxidation, and more. It’s done using a range of tools, including mechanized polishers that you absolutely don’t want anyone but a pro wielding… A few seconds too much or a misjudged angle and there’s a very real risk of too much paint being removed.

It's a 3-step process of compounding (removing deeper defects), polishing, and refining, which results in the highly smoothed surface necessary for even coating adherence.

The car will be washed and dried again before another close inspection is made to ensure the surface is perfectly prepped.

Stage 3: application

This stage will take place in a semi-sterile, temperature-controlled location to ensure optimal conditions and reduce the risk of dust or other contaminants settling on the vehicle.

Your pro installer will wear protective clothing, such as overalls, gloves, eye protection, and a respirator. They’ll apply the coating in small sections. Again, this is skilled and meticulous, as it’s a fine balancing act to ensure the correct amount is used—not too thick and not too thin is key, and the whole vehicle needs to be covered uniformly.

Stage 4: curing

This takes at least 24 hours, during which time the vehicle will remain in the temperature-controlled location. The exact period will depend on the product used—you’ll be advised beforehand how long you’ll need to leave your car with the installer.

It will then be moved outside, as curing continues over the next 3-4 days when exposed to the elements. However, you’ll probably only need to leave your car for 2-3 days as the final couple of days of curing can happen at home.

Lastly, but certainly not least, your professional ceramic coating process should end with advice on how to care for your newly beautified vehicle. You’ll be advised about how to best wash the paint and what products to use.

And then… All that’s left is to revel in the sheer glory of your newly coated paintwork. 

Got more questions? Simply pick up the phone and call our expert team—or visit

https://autosupershield.com if you’d rather do some further research before reaching out.