KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Ceramic and Teflon coating explained
- Why do you need Paint Protection for your vehicle?
- Pros and Cons of Teflon and ceramic coating
Ceramic vs Teflon coating is one of the most searched terms on Google. The information on this subject can be overwhelming for a new car buyer. Paint on the car is similar to human skin it needs something to protect itself from harsh environmental factors like - Rain, Debris, and Mud. Detailing your car every month is not practical and can be very expensive. SUVs like Grand Vitara and Thar may have powerful road presence but are fairly difficult to maneuver out of tight spaces because of their sheer size. Consequently, they tend to get scratched because of minor bumps and dings. For this reason, the best way to protect the exterior of your car from minor scratches and stone chips is to get the vehicle either Ceramic or Teflon coated.
We have explained the differences along with the Pros and Cons of Ceramic vs Teflon coating below in this section.
What is Teflon Coating?
Teflon was invented by an American company Dupont. Teflon is the same material you see on nonstick cookware. It is famous for repelling water and dirt. Moreover, Teflon is a heat-resistant material and can enhance the longevity of your car paint. Teflon coating is a good starting point in the world of paint protection because of its budget-friendly appeal.
Advantages Of Teflon Coating
Water Repellant- Water and mud will not stick to the car's surface and can be easily washed away.
Bird Dropping Protection- Not all blessings come from above. Bird's excreta has a low ph level. This can corrode the glossy layer of paint if not cleaned promptly.
Mild Scratch Resistance- Teflon can resist minor scratches resulting from daily use and stone chips.
Relatively Affordable- The price of Teflon Coating can be anywhere from 5000 to 10000 rs Depending upon the size of the vehicle. This affordability is ideal for small car owners.
Disadvantages Of Teflon Coating
Careful Washing- Teflon will degrade if proper care is not taken during car washing. Harsh strokes will result in Teflon tearing off from the surface.
Limited Life- While Ceramic Coating can last up to 5 years, Teflon coating has a life of less than 1 year
Expensive In Long Run- Teflon coating may require reapplication after every 1 year to maintain its protection. Thus proving very costly in the long run.
Also, read Budget Wheels: Top Cars Under 7 Lakh for the Savvy Driver
What is Ceramic Coating?
Once reserved for only high-end vehicles ceramic coating has become quite affordable and mainstream nowadays. Ceramic coating is essentially a mixture infused with silica nanoparticles, enabling it to harden after it is applied to the exterior surface of your car. Water beads and rolls off the surface without leaving any streaks or marks. Mud and other debris will clean off with just a spray of water very easily. The paint of your car is also protected from UV rays which can dull its shine over time. Ceramic coating is of two types-
Spray-Based- This is for budget-minded shoppers and is the easiest to apply. All you have to do is wash your car and spray the coating, one panel at a time. It is ideal to leave the panel undisturbed for a few hours before using the car, until the liquid coating cures.
Nano-Coating- This is a professional-grade treatment that requires at least 24 hours to complete. It is a bit on the expensive side but comes with up to 5 years of guarantee depending on the strength or hardness of the solution.
Advantages of Ceramic Coating
Enhanced Protection - Ceramic Coated is suitable for protection against UV rays, unlike Teflon coating. It contains Silica which increases its durability a lot. The coating is also hydrophilic.
Better Adhesiveness - Ceramic liquid infuses with paint on a molecular level. Thus providing in-depth protection against scratches.
Longer Lifespan- Depending on the hardness level, Ceramic coating can last up to 5 years.
Resale Value - The resale value of your car will increase if the exterior is spic and span. Thanks to the long-lasting Ceramic coating.
Disadvantages of Ceramic Coating
Requires Professional service- Ceramic Liquid is a hazardous chemical. It requires a professional technician with a proven experience with ceramics. This can result in high labour costs on top of the material cost.
Initial expense- It can cost anywhere between 15000 to 50000 rs for a ceramic job depending on the size of the car. This high initial cost is discouraging for many car buyers.
Water spots - Ceramic coating turns water droplets into beads. Because of this these water beads gently roll off the exterior but in some situations may collect and form a puddle. When this puddle dries, the minerals from the water remain on the surface causing water stains or spots.
VERDICT- Washing your car is not practical every day because of busy schedules and a hectic lifestyle. A Teflon or Ceramic coating is a must for a long and hassle-free ownership experience. Based on the value proposition we recommend you choose Ceramic coating. It may cost a bit more than Teflon coating, but due to its longer lifespan and additional features, the cost is somewhat justified. Also, you must join our Whatsapp Group Community of petrolheads to find out more exciting stuff about the Auto world.
