Ceramic coatings are a game-changer for vehicle protection, offering long-lasting durability, enhanced gloss, and resistance to environmental contaminants. However, the timing of your ceramic coating installation can significantly impact its effectiveness, cost, and necessity especially in a city like Toronto with its extreme seasonal weather. At Toronto Buffing Inc., we specialize in ceramic coating services year-round, and in this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of ceramic coating installation in winter versus summer.
Ceramic Coating Installation in Summer or Spring
Pros
- Ideal Curing Conditions
Ceramic coatings require proper curing to bond effectively with your vehicle’s paint. Summer’s warm temperatures and low humidity create optimal conditions for curing, ensuring a durable and long-lasting finish.
- Easier Surface Preparation
Summer weather makes it easier to wash and decontaminate your vehicle’s surface, a critical step before applying a ceramic coating. Paint correction, which often precedes coating installation, is also more effective in warmer conditions.
- Immediate Usability
In summer, your vehicle can typically be driven shortly after the coating is applied, as the curing process is faster.
- Show Season
Spring and Summer are the seasons where clients can show off their showroom shine more frequently.
Cons
- High Demand
Summer is the peak season for ceramic coating services, so you may need to book your appointment well in advance.
- Pricing and Cost Increase
Naturally, as demand increases, price is sure to follow.
- Exposure to Elements
While summer weather is ideal for curing, sudden rain or high pollen levels can affect the coating if the vehicle is exposed before it fully cures. Toronto Buffing mitigates these risks by ensuring coating dries in house.
- Installation Challenges
Hot days can cause ceramic coatings to cure to paint in a rapid fashion during installation, which can require addition time and effort to mitigate.
Ceramic Coating Installation in Winter
Pros
- Protection Against Harsh Conditions
Winter in Toronto brings snow, ice, and road salt, which can damage your vehicle’s paint. A ceramic coating applied in winter provides immediate protection against these harsh elements.
- More Availability
Winter is typically a slower season for detailing services, making it easier to book an appointment with Toronto Buffing Inc. This increase in availability usually allows us to offer significant discounts. It may be cheaper to have your vehicle coated in the winter time.
- Indoor Installation Options
Professional installers like Toronto Buffing Inc. use climate-controlled facilities to ensure proper curing, even in cold weather.
- Easier Installation
Lower temperatures allow for high end coatings used at our shop to be more workable, and easier to level. This reduces the chances for things such as high spots, and ceramic leveling induced marring.
Cons
- Longer Curing Time
Cold temperatures and higher humidity can slow down the curing process, requiring your vehicle to stay indoors for a longer period.
- Challenging Surface Preparation
Winter conditions make it harder to thoroughly wash and decontaminate your vehicle before applying the coating. However, professional detailers have the tools and expertise to overcome this challenge.
- Limited Immediate Usability
After installation, your vehicle may need to stay indoors for 24–48 hours to ensure the coating cures properly, which can be inconvenient during winter.
Why Choose Toronto Buffing Inc. for Year-Round Ceramic Coating?
At Toronto Buffing Inc., we understand the unique challenges of installing ceramic coatings in both winter and summer. Our team uses advanced techniques and climate-controlled facilities to ensure your vehicle receives the best possible protection, no matter the season.
We also offer additional services, such as paint correction and paint protection film (PPF), to keep your car looking its best year-round. Contact us today to book your ceramic coating.
Tips for Maintaining Your Ceramic Coating in Any Season
- Regular Washes: Keep your vehicle clean to prevent dirt and contaminants from bonding, and degrading the coating.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use pH-neutral car shampoos and avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Topcoat as Needed: While ceramic coatings are durable, they may need reapplication of toppers to stay up to par. Just how your engine requires maintenance, your ceramic coating does as well.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to install a ceramic coating in winter or summer, each season has its advantages and challenges. At Toronto Buffing Inc., we’re equipped to handle ceramic coating installations year-round, ensuring your vehicle stays protected and looks its best no matter the weather. One thing is for certain, ceramic is better than no ceramic!
Ready to protect your car with a professional ceramic coating? Contact Toronto Buffing Inc. today to schedule your appointment and experience the ultimate in paint protection!