A nano ceramic coating can withstand heat all the way up until temperatures top 440-degrees Fahrenheit, at which point it will begin to disintegrate.

[2023 Guide] How to Apply a Ceramic Coating

Imagine a world devoid of bird crap, tree sap, road debris, exhaust soot, polluted rain, and assholes in overpriced sports cars flicking cigarette butts out the window. Now picture what would have to happen in order for this dream to become a reality…

Yeah… it ain’t happening.

All of the open road unpleasantries listed above, and many more like them, are why interest in nano ceramic coatings has skyrocketed in recent years. However, in order for a nano ceramic coating to work, there’s a bit more work that goes into the process than procuring a bottle of ceramic coating and slapping it on your automobile.

For a nano ceramic coating to live up to its full potential, one must obtain the right cleaning supplies, prep the surfaces they wish to coat, conduct any necessary paint correction procedures, and have a safe environment from which to work in.

Ceramic coating a car is by no means a difficult undertaking. It’s just a fuzz on the time consuming side.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the mandatory DIY ceramic coating steps, here’s a little checklist. From purchasing considerations and prep work suggestions, to clear coat quick-fixes and aftercare, the following guide will show you what it takes to properly apply a nano ceramic coating, and then make it last.

Step 1: Prep It Like You Mean It

A thorough hand washing with a foamy car shampoo, followed by a rinse and a microfiber towel wipe-down should always be the first steps taken when removing contaminants from a car's exterior.
A thorough hand washing with a foamy car shampoo, followed by a rinse and a microfiber towel wipe-down should always be the first steps taken when removing contaminants from a car’s exterior.

Regardless as to whether you are applying a nano ceramic coating, a paint sealant, or even a paint protection film (PPF), the key to a successful install relies heavily upon proper prep work. While manufacturer recommendations may vary depending upon what product is being applied, the following methods are widely revered as the core “four pillars” of surface prep.

Wash

If you are not using a two-bucket hand washing method, you are contaminating your car shampoo and your automobile. Photo Credit: Pan The Organizer/YouTube
If you are not using a two-bucket hand washing method, you are contaminating your car shampoo and your automobile.
Photo Credit: Pan The Organizer/YouTube

Removing any surface grime, dirt, and debris that may be sitting on the surface is the first step in creating a clean canvas for your nano ceramic coating. Remember, you’re applying a semi-permanent layer of protection to your vehicle, so unless you like the sight of magnified bug guts embedded on your hood, scrub that ride like you mean it.

Washing the vehicle with the two-buckets-and-a-beer method both guarantees that cross-contamination is limited, and that ample amounts of refreshment are in plentiful supply. If you’re unfamiliar with this methodology, check-out our comprehensive article on vehicle cleaning, where we discuss in detail the car wash tools, chemicals, and best methods.

Clay

Clay your car, and you will be amazed by the amount of crud it removes from your vehicle's exterior surfaces. Photo Credit: LaCuraDellAuto.it/Facebook
Clay your car, and you will be amazed by the amount of crud it removes from your vehicle’s exterior surfaces.
Photo Credit: LaCuraDellAuto.it/Facebook

Once all of the visible contaminants are removed, it’s time to get to lifting deeply embedded debris and invisible impurities.

The act of “claying” a car relies upon a clay decontamination product, a clean source of water, and a lubrication liquid. The latter of these can either be purchased, or easily whipped-up with the help of some surface prep shampoo and a dash of H2O.

As for the claying media itself, we suggest foregoing the traditional clay bar in favor of either a clay mitt or a clay towel. The reason being that these two products are both reusable and washable if dropped on the ground, whereas as a clay bar must be discarded if dirtied.

For more on the importance of proper clay prep, see our blog article focusing on the subject of claying a car ahead of a nano ceramic coating install.

Quick Nerd Note: All it takes is a dash of missed grime, and “poof,” that ceramic coating is struggling to solidify. So don’t skip the claying procedure, because contrary to common belief, clay decontamination products will not damage your car’s clear coat or harm window glass.

Paint Correct & Polish

Paint correction can do wonders for a vehicle with faded or damaged clear coat.
Paint correction can do wonders for a vehicle with faded or damaged clear coat.

Another one of the big myths about DIY ceramic coatings, is that they improve and remove car paint imperfections. That’s completely untrue. Nano ceramic coatings protect surfaces, enhance shine, and amplify whatever they affix themselves to, and will NOT cover-up flaws.

Unsightly surface blemishes stand-out all the more once a ceramic coating has been installed. So eliminating swirl marks, removing scratches, fixing fade, polishing away paint peel, and various other surface restoration steps might need to be implemented.

While a paint correction procedure may sound intimidating, it’s not nearly as difficult as one might think. Conducting a DIY paint correction procedure on one’s own has everything to do with having access to a garage, procuring the right body work tools and supplies, setting enough time aside, and having a dash of patience and practice.

So read-up, and hit us up if you have any questions. The AvalonKing team is forever happy to help.

IPA Spray

A spritz of isopropyl alcohol and water blended in a spray bottle, accompanied by a quick microfiber cloth wipe-down should always be the final surface prep step prior to a vehicle being ceramic coated.
A spritz of isopropyl alcohol and water blended in a spray bottle, accompanied by a quick microfiber cloth wipe-down should always be the final surface prep step prior to a vehicle being ceramic coated.

The final step in the DIY ceramic coating prep process is wiping down the entire vehicle with a properly blended Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) solution.

Spritzing the exterior of the vehicle with a balanced IPA spray will allow you to remove any stubborn automotive lubricants, chemicals, waxes, polishes, and microfiber particles that might still be lingering on the surface.

Step 2: Buy Some DIY Nano Ceramic Coating Supplies

Any DIY nano ceramic coating product that’s worth a damn will come in a kit. Contained therein, you should find a set of clearly illustrated, easy-to-comprehend instructions, along with all of the required supplies for applying the protectant itself.

As an example, here’s the line-up of products you’ll find within every box of Armor Shield IX.

  • (1) Bottle of Armor Shield IX: A single, 30ml bottle of Armor Shield IX is enough to cover an average mid-size car, crossover (CUV), or a couple of motorcycles with a single layer of protection. Larger vehicles, like full-size pickup trucks and SUVs, will likely need two bottles, while three bottles is the norm for full-size box vans and machines of that caliber.
  • (1) Applicator Sponge: An applicator sponge is like a flat “paintbrush,” as it allows you to evenly spread the nano ceramic coating across a surface.
  • (3) Suede Applicator Cloths: Designed to be wrapped around the applicator sponge, these sheets of suede are what the ceramic coating will be dabbed onto prior to being smeared across a surface. Just be sure to replace the suede when it begins to get crusty, knowing full-well that each kit comes with three of these cloths.
  • (1) Pair of Nitrile Gloves: While there are no major health risks associated with coming into contact with nano ceramic coating when it’s in a liquid state, this stuff will dry your skin out rather quickly. So protect your paws, and if you have any concerns, be sure to reference our guide for safely applying a nano ceramic coating.
  • (1) Microfiber Buffing Towel: Once the ceramic coating has been applied, you’ll need to buff-away any “flashed” coating that materializes. A microfiber buffing towel is ideal for removing this excess and will help reduce the risk of scratching.
  • (1) Set of Instructions: They say that real men don’t need instructions. Well, last we checked, instructions were crucial in the construction of virtually every automobile ever created. Don’t compromise all that prep work you just completed because you think you know what you are doing. Follow the damn directions, and hit us up if you have any questions.

Quick Tip: Focusing on one body panel or section of the vehicle at a time will not only keep a surface slick and easy to clean, but it will also guarantee that you don’t miss any spots. This is true for all care detailing scenarios, regardless as to whether you are in the surface prep phase, ceramic coating application stage, or are just giving your ride a scrub with a maintenance car shampoo.

Step 3: Apply the Nano Ceramic Coating

A nano ceramic coating, like Armor Shield IX, offers years of protection from the elements, foreign contaminants, and surface scratches like spider webbing and swirl marks.
A nano ceramic coating, like Armor Shield IX, offers years of protection from the elements, foreign contaminants, and surface scratches like spider webbing and swirl marks.

Once all of your prep work has been completed, either get right to ceramic coating the vehicle, or keep it safely locked away in a garage, well away from precipitation, airborne contamination, inquisitive felines, and hatchet-wielding children.

When you do begin the coating process, it’s important to make sure that all of the surfaces you plan on ceramic coating are as close to room temp as possible. Most ceramic coatings adhere best when applied to a clean surface that’s sitting around the 70° Fahrenheit mark, in an environment with relatively low humidity levels.

Quick Tip: It is imperative that you never apply Armor Shield IX nano ceramic coating in direct sunlight or in a high temperature environment, as it becomes incredibly tough to buff. A ceramic coating’s ability to properly harden relies upon having the ideal drying and curing temps, and high temps will cause it to solidify entirely too quickly. So save the hot and fast action for yakitori time, and stick with a cool and controlled ceramic coating approach instead.

The Nano Ceramic Coating Application Process

Wrap the supplied suede cloth tightly around the application sponge, tucking one end into the slit on the side. This will keep the cloth from coming off during application and discourage the formation of folds and wrinkles in the fabric.

Shake the bottle of ceramic coating with vigor prior to applying 6–10 drops across the surface of the cloth. Since the amount of product you will need to use can vary depending upon the surface being coated, keeping the cloth moist at all times is vital in guaranteeing that it glides across the surface with ease.

Quick Tip: In order to keep the suede applicator cloth loaded with liquid throughout the duration of the install process, periodically add drops of Armor Shield IX to the fabric. You’ll know it’s time to reapply when the applicator pad does not want to slide smoothly, and starts to snag on the surface. This typically occurs after 2–3 swiping sessions, and is easily remedied by reloading the cloth with a few drops of nano ceramic coating.

As you swipe the ceramic coating loaded suede cloth across the surface, always work in steady side-to-side movements, or in an up-and-down motion. Focus on one section of a body panel at a time, until the entire fender, door, hood, bumper, etc. has been completely ceramic coated.

Once you’ve finished coating a complete panel, let it sit for about 1–5 minutes, using the temperature range listed below as a point of reference. Once this drying time is complete, you’ll then proceed to the final buffing phase.

Temperature Range

50°F (10°C)

60°F (15°C)

70°–80°F (20°–25°C)

Length of Time

4–5 minutes

2–3 minutes

1 minute

Quick Tip: As you complete a body panel, keep an eye on that suede applicator cloth. If it begins to feel “crispy,” or if you can see the ceramic coating beginning to crystallize on it, swap in a fresh cloth. While you are doing that, take a moment to inspect the surface you just coated from multiple angles to ensure that the coating has been thoroughly applied.

The final step in the ceramic coating application process is the buffing away of any residue that may be sitting on the surface. This is what that plush microfiber buffing cloth is for, as it will safely remove this residue without scratching the surface.

As a nano ceramic coating begins to adhere and harden, excess product gets forced to the surface, which creates a rainbow effect, almost like when you mix oil and water. The formation of this rainbow haze is called “flashing,” and the hotter the air is, the faster it will occur. Just like that one time last summer, when your drunk uncle went down to the bus stop wearing nothing but a trench coat and a pair of galoshes…

Anyways… let’s circle back to the ceramic coating kind of “flashing,” shall we?

The minute you see that iridescent haze begin to form, lightly buff the coated area with a clean microfiber towel until that rainbow appearance has been wiped away. Just be sure to move quickly, because if you wait too long your ceramic coating is going to get super hazy, at which point it will become a real bastard of a removal operation.

After you’ve completely ceramic coated and buffed the entire vehicle, allow at least 1–2 hours of drying time. Then, if you feel that another round of ceramic coating is necessary, repeat the entire application process.

There’s nothing wrong with adding a second slathering of Armor Shield IX on top of the first layer of ceramic coating in order to make sure that you haven’t missed anything.

Just make sure that the first application has been given ample time to harden, and know that nano ceramic coatings don’t stack well after the second coating has cured. Any coatings past this point are a waste of time, energy, money, and resources.

Step 4: The Curing Process

Once the nano ceramic coating process has been completed, the vehicle will need to remain inside a moisture-free shelter for at least 48 hours.
Once the nano ceramic coating process has been completed, the vehicle will need to remain inside a moisture-free shelter for at least 48 hours.

Unless you are working in a temperature and humidity controlled garage, you will find that nano ceramic coating cure times will always vary. Humidity, heat, wind, and other ambient air considerations will all affect how a ceramic coating hardens, so follow the manufacturer’s curing recommendations and remain patient.

Premature contact with liquids, wind-blown debris, and members of the feline family with an affinity for automobile roofs and hoods are particularly adept at ruining nano ceramic coatings. So keep that in mind if you plan on ceramic coating your vehicle in an open carport or some other form of partially enclosed shelter.

Quick Tip: When it comes to Armor Shield IX cure times, AvalonKing’s product engineers recommend letting the vehicle sit indoors for at least 48 hours before exposing it to the elements.

Step 5: Ceramic Coating Aftercare

https://test3.unicorns.rocks/blog/ceramic-car-coating-the-ultimate-guide/
A routinely detailed and properly protected automotive clear coat will last longer than most of the mechanical components beneath its bonnet, especially when that protection is provided by a layer of AvalonKing Armor Shield IX nano ceramic coating.

Once the nano ceramic coating on your vehicle has been allowed to cure for 48 hours, you can move the vehicle outside. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to wait at least seven days before giving the coating its first wash.

The reason for this, is because even though the ceramic coating has cured, it will continue to harden for another week or so. So if you want to make sure your vehicle is 100% car wash ready, and wish to expedite the process, park it in the sun once the initial 48 hour cure time is complete.

As for those of you who are looking to prolong the life of their nano ceramic coating, here are a few additional post-application aftercare tips to keep in mind.

  • Wait at least 21 days after install before using a ceramic spray topper/booster.
  • Always utilize the “two bucket” car wash method, using one bucket for rinsing the sponge/mitt, and the other for clean, soapy water.
  • Wash the vehicle on a bi-weekly basis with a ceramic coating friendly car shampoo to avoid excessive contamination build-up.
  • Use a separate scrub bucket, soap, and wash mitt for wheels, making sure to always clean them before any other part of the vehicle.
  • Wheels scrubbed and rinsed, wash the vehicle from the top down, leaving the dirtier lower sections for last to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Avoid washing in direct sunlight to minimize streaking and hard water spotting.
  • Always wash and dry with high-quality microfiber, as it will reduce the risk of scratches and absorb more moisture.

Parting Shots

Once ceramic coated, an automobile is protected from many of the open road's foreign contaminants, and features an exterior with unrivaled levels of shine.
Once ceramic coated, an automobile is protected from many of the open road’s foreign contaminants, and features an exterior with unrivaled levels of shine.

Despite being a tad on the time consuming side, the application of a nano ceramic coating is a super simple process. No need for extensive paint correction knowledge, or a familiarity with paint and body work here, as the tips and information listed above offer more than enough insight into the matter.

That being said, if your paint has severe surface scratches or signs of fading, it might be time to let a professional detailer step in, for paint correction procedures can be a bit time and tool intensive.

As for all things DIY ceramic coating related, feel free to hit-up one of our AvalonKing customer care specialists. We’ve got years of experience, tons of insider info, and a slew of new detailing products for purchase to help keep that ride of yours squeaky clean and heavily armored.

84 comments

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

HI Kiran! Yeah that should be fine. be cautious of where the tie downs occur as rubbing on the coating and lead to the coating being damaged in those areas.

HI Kiran! Yeah that should be fine. be cautious of where the tie downs occur as rubbing on the coating and lead to the coating being damaged in those areas.

Kiran

Kiran

After the 48 hr cure time, can I put my car cover back on or should I wait additional time before putting the cover back on?

After the 48 hr cure time, can I put my car cover back on or should I wait additional time before putting the cover back on?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Kyle!
That shouldn’t be an issue at all. just wash and IPA wipe the areas and reapply to those sections. The coating self-levels so that should be an easy fix!

Hi Kyle!
That shouldn’t be an issue at all. just wash and IPA wipe the areas and reapply to those sections. The coating self-levels so that should be an easy fix!

Kyle Burgess

Kyle Burgess

So I coated 12 days ago, just did my first wash using recommended shampoo and noticed a couple panels that are not beading properly like the rest of car. I’m pretty certain I used too much product in these spots and it did not flash properly. My question is, can I not touch up/coat these small areas now? I’ve read where you’re not supposed to coat again after 24hrs, am I stuck w the results aside from completely redoing the coat (machine polishing etc)? Please help, thanks!

So I coated 12 days ago, just did my first wash using recommended shampoo and noticed a couple panels that are not beading properly like the rest of car. I’m pretty certain I used too much product in these spots and it did not flash properly. My question is, can I not touch up/coat these small areas now? I’ve read where you’re not supposed to coat again after 24hrs, am I stuck w the results aside from completely redoing the coat (machine polishing etc)? Please help, thanks!

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hello Parker!

No we do not recommend that. The suedes are 1 use and discard. The coating is difficult if not impossible to rinse off and that’s by design.

Hello Parker!

No we do not recommend that. The suedes are 1 use and discard. The coating is difficult if not impossible to rinse off and that’s by design.

Parker bowman

Parker bowman

If you don’t finish the ceramic coating can you wash and reuse the suede cloth the next day?

If you don’t finish the ceramic coating can you wash and reuse the suede cloth the next day?

Nick

Nick

You shouldn’t use a ceramic wash product before applying a ceramic coating. The ceramic coating from Avalon King provides the base layer for all other layers to lay on top of. So, after you’ve applied Avalon King then you can use that car wash soap/method. Avalon King advises to wait 21 days till after your initial coat to begin adding layers like your soap you mentioned.

You shouldn’t use a ceramic wash product before applying a ceramic coating. The ceramic coating from Avalon King provides the base layer for all other layers to lay on top of. So, after you’ve applied Avalon King then you can use that car wash soap/method. Avalon King advises to wait 21 days till after your initial coat to begin adding layers like your soap you mentioned.

Roy

Roy

Hi, thanks for the detailed explanation of how to coat the car with ceramic finish. One thing that I’m not sure about, after it’s flashed off and been towelled off as per your instructions, is this to the extent of getting the finish back to a shine or does this develop as dries? Next day it is still slightly “tacky” to the touch (of a m/f towel). Can the surface be towelled again at that point until the tackiness goes or an I removing the ceramic finish by doing this? Thanks, Roy

Hi, thanks for the detailed explanation of how to coat the car with ceramic finish. One thing that I’m not sure about, after it’s flashed off and been towelled off as per your instructions, is this to the extent of getting the finish back to a shine or does this develop as dries? Next day it is still slightly “tacky” to the touch (of a m/f towel). Can the surface be towelled again at that point until the tackiness goes or an I removing the ceramic finish by doing this? Thanks, Roy

Brenda

Brenda

Can I wash my car with Armor All extreme shield Ceramic car wash.
Dry completely and apply Ceramic 3 in a 1 Detailer hybrid soluion.
While the car is wet wipe the spray away with microfiber cloth.
I would do this all when in the shade with car paint not hot.

Can I wash my car with Armor All extreme shield Ceramic car wash.
Dry completely and apply Ceramic 3 in a 1 Detailer hybrid soluion.
While the car is wet wipe the spray away with microfiber cloth.
I would do this all when in the shade with car paint not hot.

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi David!

any form of mechanical abrasion is going to damage or remove the coating entirely. Definitely not recommended.

Hi David!

any form of mechanical abrasion is going to damage or remove the coating entirely. Definitely not recommended.

David

David

After 14 days of ceramic coating my car, can I polish the car or no

After 14 days of ceramic coating my car, can I polish the car or no

Ben Nish

Ben Nish

How do I know when I need to redo my ceramic coating and what kind of prep do I need to do to ensure the ceramic coating sticks? Thanks

How do I know when I need to redo my ceramic coating and what kind of prep do I need to do to ensure the ceramic coating sticks? Thanks

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Between 16 C and 3 Cs is a bit low Raymond. The minimum temp we recommend applying the coating in is 15C. Once applied the lower temps shouldn’t be an issue but I would definitely suggest the baking in the sun to help the coating cure.Give the car 4 to 5 hours at a time in a bird and sprinkler free zone and let the sun harden that coating!

Between 16 C and 3 Cs is a bit low Raymond. The minimum temp we recommend applying the coating in is 15C. Once applied the lower temps shouldn’t be an issue but I would definitely suggest the baking in the sun to help the coating cure.Give the car 4 to 5 hours at a time in a bird and sprinkler free zone and let the sun harden that coating!

Raymond

Raymond

Hopefully I haven’t missed this in any of the comments above but I’m planning to ceramic coat my car in the garage. It’s a high of 16 Celcius and low of 3 Celcius at night. I’m planning to apply the coating middle of day in the garage when it’s in the right temperature range. However I’m concerned about the overnight temperature dropping in the garage to below the optimum range. Is this okay or should I leave it in the sun to bake before bringing the car back into the garage over night?
I spent 2 days washing and polishing the paintwork so I want to do anything I can to make it perfect!
Thanks in advance

Hopefully I haven’t missed this in any of the comments above but I’m planning to ceramic coat my car in the garage. It’s a high of 16 Celcius and low of 3 Celcius at night. I’m planning to apply the coating middle of day in the garage when it’s in the right temperature range. However I’m concerned about the overnight temperature dropping in the garage to below the optimum range. Is this okay or should I leave it in the sun to bake before bringing the car back into the garage over night?
I spent 2 days washing and polishing the paintwork so I want to do anything I can to make it perfect!
Thanks in advance

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Wayne!
Definitely not dumb questions at all! On a mint car with no other products previously applied We’d suggest a basic 3 step
1) Wash and Dry using wax-free shampoo as well as microfiber drying towels 2) Clay either by bar or mitt. Most find the mitt much easier to do. Use a lubricant such as the shampoo in concentrate to ensure the claying process is sliding across the painted surface. 3) IPA wipe down or use a surface prep agent to remove any remaining debris and oils from the surface area.
Armor Shield can be applied to ALL exterior surfaces except for rubber seals and the actual rubber of the tire. Use on headlights and glass surfaces is highly recommended!

Hi Wayne!
Definitely not dumb questions at all! On a mint car with no other products previously applied We’d suggest a basic 3 step
1) Wash and Dry using wax-free shampoo as well as microfiber drying towels 2) Clay either by bar or mitt. Most find the mitt much easier to do. Use a lubricant such as the shampoo in concentrate to ensure the claying process is sliding across the painted surface. 3) IPA wipe down or use a surface prep agent to remove any remaining debris and oils from the surface area.
Armor Shield can be applied to ALL exterior surfaces except for rubber seals and the actual rubber of the tire. Use on headlights and glass surfaces is highly recommended!

Wayne

Wayne

I just bought my Mustang Mach-E a little over a month ago. I’ve hand washed it several times, but, obviously, being new, I haven’t did any kind of waxing. Do you still recommend doing all of the different parts of the prepping of a new car, or can some things, be skipped? Also, do you apply the ceramic to headlights and tailights. I saw glass mentioned on some sights, also. The Mach-E has that huge glass roof, that is so darkly tinted, that it looks like a regular roof. Sorry, if some of these questions are dumb, but, I just want to make sure I do it right the first time.Thanks!

I just bought my Mustang Mach-E a little over a month ago. I’ve hand washed it several times, but, obviously, being new, I haven’t did any kind of waxing. Do you still recommend doing all of the different parts of the prepping of a new car, or can some things, be skipped? Also, do you apply the ceramic to headlights and tailights. I saw glass mentioned on some sights, also. The Mach-E has that huge glass roof, that is so darkly tinted, that it looks like a regular roof. Sorry, if some of these questions are dumb, but, I just want to make sure I do it right the first time.Thanks!

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hello George!

None of those are ideal situations. I wouldn’t recommend the car cover unless it is an absolute must and 8 Celsius is our bottom temp limit for the coating. Your climate is providing you with some difficulties so I would recommend to go with a garage or wait for a hot and dry spell to present itself.

Hello George!

None of those are ideal situations. I wouldn’t recommend the car cover unless it is an absolute must and 8 Celsius is our bottom temp limit for the coating. Your climate is providing you with some difficulties so I would recommend to go with a garage or wait for a hot and dry spell to present itself.

George

George

Hi,
I’m just going to apply the avalon ceramic coating in the next days to my car but as I don’t have a garage to keep it during the curing time 24h to 48h, I was thinking if I use a car cover to keep it away from the rain or anything else during the curing process will it be ok? Temperature will be around 8 Celsius degrees at night and around 15 Celsius degrees day time with sunny spells .
Thank you

Hi,
I’m just going to apply the avalon ceramic coating in the next days to my car but as I don’t have a garage to keep it during the curing time 24h to 48h, I was thinking if I use a car cover to keep it away from the rain or anything else during the curing process will it be ok? Temperature will be around 8 Celsius degrees at night and around 15 Celsius degrees day time with sunny spells .
Thank you

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

You should be able to do that. Ideally, the 2nd coating is applied within 1 to 24 hours of the first coating. Wait a minimal of 1 hour to allow the first coat to settle but after that time period the sooner the better!

You should be able to do that. Ideally, the 2nd coating is applied within 1 to 24 hours of the first coating. Wait a minimal of 1 hour to allow the first coat to settle but after that time period the sooner the better!

Diego

Diego

I applied 1 layer of ceramic coating today is that good enough ? Should I be concerned of it not lasting ?, can I reapply a 2nd coat tmw morning or will it be to late since it crystallizes?

I applied 1 layer of ceramic coating today is that good enough ? Should I be concerned of it not lasting ?, can I reapply a 2nd coat tmw morning or will it be to late since it crystallizes?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Ernest!
I believe we chatted earlier but you sure can! Applying the 2nd coating between 1 to 24 hours is going to give you the most effective use of the 2nd coat.

Hi Ernest!
I believe we chatted earlier but you sure can! Applying the 2nd coating between 1 to 24 hours is going to give you the most effective use of the 2nd coat.

Ernest Cannon

Ernest Cannon

Can I apply the second coat the next day?

Can I apply the second coat the next day?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hello Morten!

We recommend consuming an open bottle of Armor Shield within 4 to 6 weeks maximum. Once crystals begin to form in the solution you should throw it out. test an open bottle on a sample surface area such as a tool box or the inside of a trunk to make certain no crystals have formed.

Hello Morten!

We recommend consuming an open bottle of Armor Shield within 4 to 6 weeks maximum. Once crystals begin to form in the solution you should throw it out. test an open bottle on a sample surface area such as a tool box or the inside of a trunk to make certain no crystals have formed.

Morten

Morten

When opened, can it be re-used? If, how long after?

When opened, can it be re-used? If, how long after?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hello Edmund!
I dare say ours is the best!!! PH neutral… check…. thick foamy base…. check wax free…. check smells good…. check and check!
you want to dilute IPA down to between 15 and 25% for 99.5% you are looking at 5 parts water to 1 part IPA

Hello Edmund!
I dare say ours is the best!!! PH neutral… check…. thick foamy base…. check wax free…. check smells good…. check and check!
you want to dilute IPA down to between 15 and 25% for 99.5% you are looking at 5 parts water to 1 part IPA

Edmund D Fairley

Edmund D Fairley

What is the best car wash soap after the ceramic coating is well-cured?

What is the correct solution or mixture of isopropyl alcohol. I have 99.5%. Is that too strong? Should I dilute it before wiping over the paint?

What is the best car wash soap after the ceramic coating is well-cured?

What is the correct solution or mixture of isopropyl alcohol. I have 99.5%. Is that too strong? Should I dilute it before wiping over the paint?

Shanon Hibbeler

Shanon Hibbeler

Still trying to get the SDS for this. Please email me!

Still trying to get the SDS for this. Please email me!

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

You can definitely do that if low humidity and no heavy condensation in your area.

You can definitely do that if low humidity and no heavy condensation in your area.

Arnusith

Arnusith

Hi I plan on applying your ceramic coating to my car after the wash, decontamination, and polishing. The problem is I don’t have a garage to store it for 48 hours. Is it ok if I leave it outside as long as I know it’s not windy and won’t be raining?

Hi I plan on applying your ceramic coating to my car after the wash, decontamination, and polishing. The problem is I don’t have a garage to store it for 48 hours. Is it ok if I leave it outside as long as I know it’s not windy and won’t be raining?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Giovanni!
We recommend the minimum temps to be around 45 degrees. Especially with the low temps, it’s very important to allow the car to sit undisturbed for a full 48 hours. Even better if you can allow the car to sit in for several hours after application. Let the sun’s rays bake it in somewhat. If you are going to apply in lower temps do use a space heater to push up the temps as much as safely possible.

Hi Giovanni!
We recommend the minimum temps to be around 45 degrees. Especially with the low temps, it’s very important to allow the car to sit undisturbed for a full 48 hours. Even better if you can allow the car to sit in for several hours after application. Let the sun’s rays bake it in somewhat. If you are going to apply in lower temps do use a space heater to push up the temps as much as safely possible.

Giovanni

Giovanni

Hello,

Just purchased the product but gave a question. I live in the east coast – Massachusetts. Weather around here is not predictable and changes quickly. Watching videos and reading on proper application process it does not mention temperature – unless I missed it. What is your suggestion for me to apply the product. Currently night temps around 20F and day 30F to 40F. I really want to apply the product but also don’t want to ruin what I’m trying to accomplish.

Hello,

Just purchased the product but gave a question. I live in the east coast – Massachusetts. Weather around here is not predictable and changes quickly. Watching videos and reading on proper application process it does not mention temperature – unless I missed it. What is your suggestion for me to apply the product. Currently night temps around 20F and day 30F to 40F. I really want to apply the product but also don’t want to ruin what I’m trying to accomplish.

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Michael!

Certainly shouldn’t be common or expected behavior. Water spots from rainfall are typically due to high pollution counts in the air. Rain alone really shouldn’t cause the type of water spots that are difficult to buff off.

Hi Michael!

Certainly shouldn’t be common or expected behavior. Water spots from rainfall are typically due to high pollution counts in the air. Rain alone really shouldn’t cause the type of water spots that are difficult to buff off.

Pete

Pete

Hi, Same here I just applied Armorshield, I prep the car weather has been great in the 55° 68° but I don’t have a garage good thing is no raining, water sprinkler or anything, humidity is good … I know overnight will be cold what should i do with water spot from condensation if the am if any ???

Hi, Same here I just applied Armorshield, I prep the car weather has been great in the 55° 68° but I don’t have a garage good thing is no raining, water sprinkler or anything, humidity is good … I know overnight will be cold what should i do with water spot from condensation if the am if any ???

Michael Watson

Michael Watson

Applied Armour Shield to my car 2 weeks ago following your prep and application instructions carefully. Car looks incredible! However I washed and dried it yesterday and then when it rained today it was covered in water spots. Is this normal? Never had a problem with this before the coating was put on. Easy to remove but a pain if I have to wash the car ever time it rains. Any advice would be appreciated.

Applied Armour Shield to my car 2 weeks ago following your prep and application instructions carefully. Car looks incredible! However I washed and dried it yesterday and then when it rained today it was covered in water spots. Is this normal? Never had a problem with this before the coating was put on. Easy to remove but a pain if I have to wash the car ever time it rains. Any advice would be appreciated.

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Dave!
the carport would work but those temps are just too low. We don’t recommend applying Armor Shield in temps below 45 degrees.

Hi Dave!
the carport would work but those temps are just too low. We don’t recommend applying Armor Shield in temps below 45 degrees.

Dave

Dave

I dont have easy access to a garage. I do have a carport. If I put up some say plastic sheets or tarps to wall off the sides or entrance would this suffice?

Was thinking of applying soon, not sure if the weather is too cold for this to apply? (material application temperature -5 to 25)….

I dont have easy access to a garage. I do have a carport. If I put up some say plastic sheets or tarps to wall off the sides or entrance would this suffice?

Was thinking of applying soon, not sure if the weather is too cold for this to apply? (material application temperature -5 to 25)….

george holt

george holt

Can you send me a sample to try

Can you send me a sample to try

Ken Ritola

Ken Ritola

You suggested using a “degreaser” to remove the old waxes. Just what type of degreaser do you suggest? I used to use degreasers at work. I can’t imagine using that stuff on my truck!

You suggested using a “degreaser” to remove the old waxes. Just what type of degreaser do you suggest? I used to use degreasers at work. I can’t imagine using that stuff on my truck!

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

HI Rob!
Terrible situation for sure but not the end of the world since it is a great learning experience here.
I would suggest 1) reclaying to help weaken the existing coating and then follow that up with 2) A compound polish of the car. Those 2 steps should remove the existing coating and then allow you to before a siimple wash/dry and IPA wipe down before applying another ceramic coating (preferably Armor Shield of course)

HI Rob!
Terrible situation for sure but not the end of the world since it is a great learning experience here.
I would suggest 1) reclaying to help weaken the existing coating and then follow that up with 2) A compound polish of the car. Those 2 steps should remove the existing coating and then allow you to before a siimple wash/dry and IPA wipe down before applying another ceramic coating (preferably Armor Shield of course)

Rob W

Rob W

Thank you for your article. Yesterday, I attempted a ceramic coating after a wash ( went to a car wash – mistake I know ), clay bar, and then the ceramic. I didn’t know about the wipe down after the clay. The product I used didn’t say to allow drying time. I buffed/wiped with a microfiber towel after application. Then, used a minimally damp towel wipe afterwards. The car will be in the garage for 24 hrs + afterwards.
It doesn’t sound like my process was optimal.
How do I approach a re-do and when? I’d want to get through the Midwest Winter

Thank you for your article. Yesterday, I attempted a ceramic coating after a wash ( went to a car wash – mistake I know ), clay bar, and then the ceramic. I didn’t know about the wipe down after the clay. The product I used didn’t say to allow drying time. I buffed/wiped with a microfiber towel after application. Then, used a minimally damp towel wipe afterwards. The car will be in the garage for 24 hrs + afterwards.
It doesn’t sound like my process was optimal.
How do I approach a re-do and when? I’d want to get through the Midwest Winter

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

You will want to use a degreaser to remove the waxing agents. That wax will prevent Armor Shield from bonding to the painted surface.

You will want to use a degreaser to remove the waxing agents. That wax will prevent Armor Shield from bonding to the painted surface.

dennis may

dennis may

I used a nano wax on my car, will an IPA remove it or is it even necessary to worry about it. Car is brand new so very very little road wear.
Is a Corvette a small car?

I used a nano wax on my car, will an IPA remove it or is it even necessary to worry about it. Car is brand new so very very little road wear.
Is a Corvette a small car?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Rob!

The purpose of the IPA wipedown is to use a residue free prospduct that picks up anything left behind from the previous cleaning steps. The name of the game is to get the car as clean and smooth as possible. Once achieved you seal it in with Armor Shield.

Hi Rob!

The purpose of the IPA wipedown is to use a residue free prospduct that picks up anything left behind from the previous cleaning steps. The name of the game is to get the car as clean and smooth as possible. Once achieved you seal it in with Armor Shield.

Rob

Rob

Hi,
Thanks for this very informative article. I just discovered your article after doing a ceramic treatment on my car.
The instructions that came with the product were poorly written, and did not mention IPA, hence, I didn’t use any alcohol in my prep.
What kind of results can I expect because of this?

Thanks,
Rob

Hi,
Thanks for this very informative article. I just discovered your article after doing a ceramic treatment on my car.
The instructions that came with the product were poorly written, and did not mention IPA, hence, I didn’t use any alcohol in my prep.
What kind of results can I expect because of this?

Thanks,
Rob

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Matt!
You certainly can do that based on the hardness and absorbency of the filler will determine how well the ceramic coating bonds to filler.

Hi Matt!
You certainly can do that based on the hardness and absorbency of the filler will determine how well the ceramic coating bonds to filler.

Matt Le Moo

Matt Le Moo

In preping the surface and polishing before applying “ceramic”, can you use an AIO with some fillers etc that fill and hide some scratches?.
Obviously the IPA woukd remove some of these types of waxes.
Would the filled scrstch rensin dtabke underthe cured “ceramic”?

In preping the surface and polishing before applying “ceramic”, can you use an AIO with some fillers etc that fill and hide some scratches?.
Obviously the IPA woukd remove some of these types of waxes.
Would the filled scrstch rensin dtabke underthe cured “ceramic”?

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Raymond!

I covered this in email with greater detail but you sure can do that!

Hi Raymond!

I covered this in email with greater detail but you sure can do that!

Dale Pearl

Dale Pearl

Hi Alexander!

Many do go that route and have success but I would suggest purchasing a degreaser product from a car care manufacturer.

Hi Alexander!

Many do go that route and have success but I would suggest purchasing a degreaser product from a car care manufacturer.

Alexander Smith

Alexander Smith

Hi. Will dish soap do the job of stripping the old wax from the paint before applying ceramic coating?

Hi. Will dish soap do the job of stripping the old wax from the paint before applying ceramic coating?

Raymond

Raymond

Can I apply another layer after the ceramic is fully cured? I applied 1.5 coats to the car but ran out of ceramic midway. I want to buy another bottle so I can get 2 coats of ceramic on the car. Car has sat inside a garage and has not moved since I applied the coating.

Can I apply another layer after the ceramic is fully cured? I applied 1.5 coats to the car but ran out of ceramic midway. I want to buy another bottle so I can get 2 coats of ceramic on the car. Car has sat inside a garage and has not moved since I applied the coating.

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