Why Prep Work Is 80% of a Ceramic Coating Job
One of the most misunderstood aspects of ceramic coating is where the real work actually happens. Many people assume the coating itself is doing the heavy lifting. In reality, preparation determines the final result.
At a professional detailing studio, most of the time spent on a ceramic coating job occurs before the coating is ever opened. This is why prep work accounts for roughly 80% of the job and why skipping it leads to disappointing results.
Ceramic Coatings Preserve Paint — They Don’t Fix It
Ceramic coatings do not remove defects. They preserve the existing condition of the paint.
That means:
Swirl marks remain visible
Scratches stay locked in
Water spots don’t magically disappear
If the paint looks average before coating, it will look average forever.
Step 1: Thorough Decontamination
Before polishing begins, the paint must be completely decontaminated. This includes removing:
Iron fallout from brake dust
Road tar and grime
Embedded contaminants are bonded to the clear coat
This stage typically involves snow foam pre-washing, iron removal treatments, and mechanical decontamination using clay.
Skipping this step risks dragging contaminants across the paint during polishing, causing additional damage.
Step 2: Paint Correction
Paint correction is where the transformation happens. Using machine polishers and specialised compounds, defects are removed safely and progressively.
Depending on the vehicle, this may involve:
Single-stage correction for light defects
Multi-stage correction for heavily marked paint
This process can take anywhere from 8 to 25+ hours, depending on the vehicle’s condition.
Step 3: Panel Wipe & Surface Prep
After polishing, all polishing oils and residue must be removed. This ensures the ceramic coating bonds directly to the clear coat rather than sitting on top of oils.
This step is critical for durability and longevity.
Step 4: Controlled Ceramic Coating Application
Only after preparation is complete is the ceramic coating applied. Professional application involves precise flash times, careful levelling, and controlled curing.
Mistakes at this stage are difficult to correct, which is why preparation must be perfect.
Why Cheap Ceramic Coating Quotes Are a Red Flag
Low-cost ceramic coating packages often indicate:
Minimal paint correction
Rushed prep work
Short-lived results
The coating may still be applied, but the outcome rarely meets expectations.
Final Thoughts: Prep Is What You’re Really Paying For
The ceramic coating product matters, but preparation determines the outcome. Proper prep ensures better gloss, longer durability, and a finish that actually looks professional.
