A lack of paint protection means your car is vulnerable to bird stains & swirl marks. But is that enough reason to consider adding a layer of protection for your vehicle?
For most of us in Australia, when we purchase a new car we are often offered a variety of paint protection options. The level of information provided also varies depending on the brand of product and unfortunately the honesty of the salesperson. These same factors also dictate the cost too.
Prolonged Damage Requires Paint Correction
Exposure to the sun and dirt as well as contaminants over time does a lot of harm. They can cause your car’s paint to lose its shine and develop visible flaws. Requiring paint correction, a labour-intensive process. It involves polishing and buffing the paint to remove imperfections. These can be swirl marks or scratches and oxidation. So investing in paint protection can help avoid the need for costly correction treatments in the future.Lack of Protection Means Faded and Oxidised Paint
This doesn’t just diminish your vehicle’s appearance. It can also reduce its resale value. Think of the harsh Australian sun. Combine it with environmental pollutants like bird droppings and acid rain. These can cause permanent damage to the paint surface if left unprotected. Applying a protective layer can significantly extend the lifespan of your car’s paintwork. Maintaining its glossy finish. To help you sift through the jargon and multitude of products available, Sydney’s Detail Artist will go over some of the options available for your car.Types of Paint Protection for Vehicles
Commonly there are 3 categories of paint protection. These can be defined as any product that is applied to your paintwork that offers any form of protection. All forms will have varying degrees:- UV Protection – Very important in our Strong Australian Environment
- Hydrophobicity – Water Beading, Water Sheeting & Self-Cleaning
- Physical Resistance – Acidic Elements (bird poo, bat poo & watermarks), Swirl marks and light marring
- Aesthetics – Gloss, depth and clarity
Waxes – Low to Medium Cost
Waxes are the oldest form of protection, these use a combination of Carnauba Palm Waxes, fruit oils and other ingredients. Waxes still provide the best in terms of gloss and depth. However one major downside with waxes is a lack of thickness, longevity and resistance towards longterm damage. Waxes require regular reapplication to maintain their protective qualities. While they can enhance your car’s shine, they may not provide sufficient defence against harsh environmental factors like UV rays and contaminants. Car owners who prefer the traditional method of detailing should be prepared for more frequent maintenance.Synthetic Sealants – Low Cost
To overcome the short lifespan of waxes, Sealants were developed. These can last months upto 12 months maximum which is a great improvement. However, the overall looks weren’t able to compare to waxes. This option is most often offered by dealerships, even with a lifetime warranty the product will not last longer than 24 months on your vehicle. Sealants are a budget-friendly option that provides moderate protection. They create a smooth, slick surface that helps repel dirt and water. However, they still require periodic reapplication to maintain effectiveness and are not as durable as modern coatings.Glass Coatings – Medium to High Cost
The most recent development in paint protection. Utilising advanced chemistry, the vast majority of coatings are based on Silicone Dioxide SiO2 aka Quartz or Pure Glass. These coatings come in many different brands and there is a lot of misinformation among them. However, one thing is clear, a good glass coating is a large step ahead from waxes and sealants. The gloss provided is almost of the same level as waxes, the lifespan is often between 2 -5 years and best of all they excel in the other attributes in UV protection and Hydrophobicity. Glass coatings form a strong, protective layer that bonds with the paint, offering superior defence against environmental damage. They are highly resistant to chemicals. Not just that but also bird droppings and minor scratches. What can you expect with proper care? These coatings can keep your car looking fresh for years. Making them a worthwhile investment. Another advanced option for protection is getting PPF in Sydney, also known as Paint Protection Film. Unlike coatings, this transparent film provides a physical barrier that absorbs impacts from road debris and minor abrasions. While the paint protection film cost may be higher, it offers unparalleled protection, especially for high-impact areas such as bumpers and side mirrors.What Does This All Mean for You?
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, your own budget and expectations should dictate which option you opt for. One important element to consider is with waxes and sealants, regular application (quarterly) is recommended to achieve the best results. Glass Coatings can be a cost-effective solution due to their long lifespan. The top level coatings which deliver extremely well in each attribute listed above can become costly however. You may also think that new cars don’t need paint protection. But it’s better to apply protection early. This helps preserve your vehicle’s fresh look. The same consideration can also be thought of when it comes to electric vehicles. These are specialised cars so they need proper protection.Going the Extra Mile
Do you want to take things further? Car wrapping is an option worth considering. Wrapping allows you to customise the look of your vehicle. All while adding a layer of protection to the paint. It’s a great way to achieve a unique appearance. Also while preserving the original paint underneath. It is important to do good research and ask your detailer to find a protection product suitable for you and your car. Regular maintenance is also key to keeping your protection layers effective. Simple habits such as hand washing with pH-neutral soaps, avoiding automated car washes, and using microfibre cloths can help extend the life of your coating or film.But First! Prepare Your Car
Don’t dive into paint protection right away! Preparation comes first. It’s important to ensure your car receives proper detailing to achieve the best results. A professional detailing service preps your vehicle by thoroughly cleaning and correcting the paint. Ensuring that any protective coating adheres correctly and performs optimally. But, not all detailing services are created equal. This is why asking the right questions before choosing one is crucial. Consider asking:- What detailing packages do you offer? What do they include?
- Do you perform paint correction before applying protection?
- What products and techniques do you use?
- How experienced are your detailers with my car’s make and model?
- Do you offer any guarantees or aftercare advice?
