How To Series - Part 3 - Ceramic Coating Maintenance
The number one reason why ceramic coatings are failing is because of improper wash care. Due to fancy marketing and false claims by other manufacturers, many boat owners and captains have the common misconception that ceramic coatings are maintenance-free or they can continue to wash with the same harsh cleansers and stiff brushes that they used before. This is false. The truth is, ceramic coatings reduce normal boat maintenance like buffing and waxing, but proper maintenance and wash care is still required.
We would like to outline what proper maintenance and wash techniques should look like on a vessel with paint or gel coat that has been sealed with ceramic coating and is kept outside, uncovered.
Type of Soap for Ceramic Coating Maintenance
Frequency of Washing: Every 2 to 4 weeks
Attributes of Soap - non-abrasive, high foam content. Do not use soap with wax or other sealants. Revitalize was specifically formulated to clean vessels that have been previously coated with ceramic coatings. This shampoo is infused with silica technology that will revitalize the surface of the coating and lay down a thin film of protective technology. Revitalize is pH neutral and will produce high, stable foaming while being gentle and lubricating the vessel’s surface during use. The shampoo is very concentrated and requires only a small amount for usage.
Type of Brush for Ceramic Coating Maintenance
Soft - Rule of thumb - “something soft enough to wash your face with”. The last thing you want to do is use an abrasive brush on a ceramic coating.
Using a Maintenance Spray
Every 1 to 3 months - More often in higher profile areas. Our water-based Silica Sealants are perfect for rebooting the surface after the vessel has been clean. Activate is a spray on wipe off formula and is recommended on smaller sections and areas. HydroSerum is a touch less silica-infused spray sealant that is applied without needing to physically touch the vessels finish with a towel. Simply mist the formula onto an already wet, clean surface and then power wash off the excess to produce a glossy, smooth, highly hydrophobic finish that lasts up to 90 days.
What not to do…
- Do not use stiff, abrasive brushes
- Do not use soap with wax
- Do not use harmful cleaner
How to Avoid Water Spots on Ceramic Coatings
Use a drying towel to remove any water spots is critical in maintaining a water spot-free finish. Ceramic coatings will not protect from water spots. With that being said, water spots that are removed within a few days will come off easily while water spots that are etched in over longer periods of time may require a light polish for removal.