From Prep to Perfection: Our Ceramic Coating Process Explained

The Full Ceramic Coating Process: From Prep to Protection

If you’re thinking about getting a ceramic coating, you might be wondering: “How long does it take, and what’s actually involved?” At What in Detail Nation, we often hear from clients who are surprised to learn that our premium ceramic coating packages typically take 2–3 days from start to finish. But every hour is worth it for a finish that’s not only stunning but protected for years to come.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at our full ceramic coating process—step by step.

Step 1: Pre-Service Inspection & Consultation

Before we touch your vehicle, we do a thorough pre-service inspection. We evaluate the condition of your paint, trim, glass, and wheels, and discuss your expectations. This is our chance to touch base with you, explain the process, and make sure we tailor the service to your vehicle’s specific needs.

Step 2: The 3-Step Prep

A ceramic coating can only bond to a truly clean surface. That’s why we use a three-step prep process:

Alkaline Cleaner: Removes road grime, oil, and surface dirt.

Chemical & Mechanical Decontamination: Eliminates embedded particles like tar, tree sap, and iron deposits.

Acid-Based Cleaners: Ensures the surface is completely free of microscopic contaminants.

This thorough prep ensures the paint is perfectly ready for correction and coating.

Step 3: In-Depth Paint Inspection

Next, we perform a detailed inspection of your paint to identify imperfections like swirl marks, scratches, or fading. This lets us determine the exact level of paint correction your vehicle needs to achieve a flawless finish.

Step 4: Paint Correction & Inspection

Depending on your paint’s condition, we’ll perform a single or multi-stage machine polishing process. This step removes scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation while restoring color depth and gloss. After polishing, we inspect every panel again to ensure it’s perfect before moving on to coating.

Step 5: Panel Prep for Coating Application

Before applying the ceramic coating, each panel is carefully prepped to remove any remaining dust or polishing residue. This step is critical—any tiny particle left behind can affect the bond and longevity of the coating.

Step 6: Ceramic Coating Application

Now for the exciting part! We apply a professional-grade ceramic coating in precise, even layers. Each panel is carefully coated, ensuring maximum protection and depth.

Step 7: Final Inspection & Curing

Once the coating is applied, we do a final inspection to confirm every surface meets our high standards. The coating then needs 24 hours to cure, during which time your vehicle should remain protected from water and contaminants.

Step 8: Pick-Up & Aftercare Tips

When you pick up your vehicle, we walk you through aftercare tips to ensure your coating lasts as long as possible. Simple maintenance like washing and drying correctly keeps the paint looking fresh, deep, and glossy—without waxing.

Why Choose a Ceramic Coating?

A professionally applied ceramic coating:

Protects your paint from contaminants and UV damage

Increases depth and shine

Makes cleaning a breeze

Lasts for years, saving you time and money on maintenance

At What in Detail Nation, we combine science, precision, and a love for cars to deliver results that speak for themselves. Your vehicle isn’t just cleaned—it’s transformed and protected at a professional level.

Curious to see the magic in action? Reach out today and let’s talk about how a ceramic coating can make your car shine like new—and stay that way.