For the car buffs, it’s mostly about paint and tyres, possibly to a level of obsession. Some of the more important areas, especially during rough weather- the windows and the windshield, require a better deal. Clean and clear windscreen and windows make you feel jolly good. A concept that is catching up fast is the application of ceramic coating on glass, windscreen and rear windows included.
Ceramic Coating can be applied almost anywhere- alloys, fiber parts, vinyl-contrary to the norm of its application only on paint. In a market that has many ceramic glass coating products, a second thought is in the air regarding their permanence, efficacy and ‘one for all’ fit.
So, let’s take a shot, understanding the science behind the ceramic glass coating application. The good news is that it could be an amateurish process, against what is made ‘viral’.
Ceramic Coating- How it works
You’ll know well if you’ve used nanoceramic on your car paint for UV ray protection, boast of its hydrophobic traits- that help in repelling water and keeping contaminants at bay-and in being a guard for your car through its longevity. Follow suit, the glass surfaces would be taken care of as well.
Many ceramic coatings that you could possibly lay your hands on are a blend of natural and artificial contents-SiO2, SiO4 and TiO2 to name a few-to make protection for your paint. Though concentrated they are safe to use. Applied to a surface, they fasten to the top layer to generate a semi protective sheet that is durable, smooth and transparent.
Coating on your car glass- the benefits
1-3 years is the average life span of a ceramic coating in the market that is put to use by amateurs, totally different from the professional ones like KochChemie Glass Coating. Professional ones are made for specific material- for glass, leather, vinyl, plastic. Not to forget, one for glass that we’re talking about.
DIY coatings are for you and me, not for the professionals. They are good for an OK kind of job, for most exterior surfaces, with respect to application and bonding. The application and preparation quality, by virtue of many other factors involved, will vary when a layman, who is a car owner, tries it out.
To the question “Can we do it ourselves”? the answer is “Yes”, with frills. The coating will work, but imperfections will show up. The sound of the wiper blade moving over glass- called windshield chatter- is an example. A professional work, however, will ensure that the blades have a smooth glide over glass, removing water.
Having a nanoceramic coating on glass has multiple pluses, including improved hydrophobic properties and UV protection, minimizing damage to the interior. It can also many other benefits, better in comparison to wax and alternate water reflecting coatings.
Visibility Improvement
Relevant and useful especially during heavy rains or a fog, the water resistant nature of ceramic glass coating makes it easier to have an outside view, through the front and rear windshields and the glass windows. While giving a smooth surface, safety is also factored in preventing accidents due to poor visibility, as water blocks a clear view.
Cleaning made easy
With the features that ceramic glass coatings possess, cleaning stains, animal droppings and tree sap is easier. During long drives, it is all the more helpful.
Clarity Enhanced
One appreciable benefit of this coating is its capacity to enhance visibility by repelling water, without leaving behind a trace of haziness or murkiness. It is a plus, always, even during day time to have a clear view, especially while driving. A proper application has no chance of leaving behind anything that affects vision- residue, film or any other substance. The UV resistant feature also helps during day time protecting from a glaring sun’s rays. The anti glare trait is also a blessing during night drives, when others cast a high beam from their headlamps.
Resistance to scratches
A ceramic glass coating gives a scratch resistant shell, post curing and lasts for up to 5 years when applied in the right manner. The longevity of your glass is ensured by guarding against and reducing the impact of potential scratches.
Note however, that it may not help you with the impact from a moving chip striking your glass.
Professional Application of Ceramic glass coating
The process or steps involved are akin to that of the body paint, headlamps or wheels, starting with preparation and going all the way to aftercare. Let’s get going with each, a bit more in detail.
Preparation: This is important and needs to start by checking your glass for cracks or any other damage. If you find one, better have it replaced before the actual application of coating. Once done with inspection, rinse the glass, use clay bar for smoothing it and mop downwards using IPA spray with a microfiber piece.
Applying the Coat: Complete step 1 and you’re ready with application. Ensure you aren’t in a sunlight area as the curing process can be screwed up, affecting durability of the coating.
Curing and post care: With coating completed, it is apt to move the vehicle to help it cure, under sunlight. Ensure to keep the surface away from water for 48 hrs. After the stipulated time, complete the aftercare by washing with soap and water, using the two bucket method. Strictly avoid glass cleaners as they can tamper with the coating and tell upon the durability.
DIY Coatings on Glass- Yes or No?
If you want to feel satisfied with minimal level of benefits and a cheaper version, you can try with coatings that won’t last long, yet give you a few months of effect that includes a water repelling and smooth surface and a lower level of UV protection.
Alternatively, if the maximum level of protection is being sought, only a professional grade nano coating for glass can do the job, which ensures cleaner windows, anti glare properties and high level of UV resistance. Try out Koch Chemie Glass Coating, our special ceramic pro coating that works on other parts as well.
Used in conjunction with a professional grade IR blocking window tint, it is applied only under professional supervision in a certified Salon, under a controlled setup and carried out by experts working on it for years. The product is also covered under warranty, based on how long it would last.
