The easiest way to understand Ceramtek is to think of it as a second layer of skin and is completely transparent. Ceramic Coating is a liquid polymer that is applied by hand to the exterior of a boat. The coating chemically bonds with the boat’s gelcoat creating a layer of protection. It can be applied in multiple layers allowing a thicker/harder layer of protection.
Once applied to a surface, the need for waxes and other products becomes unnecessary. Ceramic coating is clear and non-yellowing. When cured, it transforms into a rigid, super slick glass shield. Ceramtek forms a permanent bond with the surface and will not wash off or break down and can only be removed by abrasion.
Ceramtek reduces the surface tension of the gelcoat preventing algae from planting roots into the boat’s very porous finish making growth very easy to remove. After application, the surface becomes very hydrophobic which allows you to simply hose off the boat while rinsing away the salt, dirt or fish blood from the surface.
Basically, the biggest difference between waxes and Ceramtek is the amount of protection that our product provides over the other. Waxes might look great for a few weeks (or possibly months) but because gelcoat is very porous waxed boats require constant maintenance to achieve the desired results. To make matters worse, if the wax is improperly applied it can contribute to scratching and swirling by using poor technique, dirty or damaged equipment.
Although waxes cost much less than ceramic coatings-you get what you pay for! If you’ve ever waxed a boat before, you’re well aware of the time and energy that’s involved and constant upkeep required.
Given Mother Nature’s harsh conditions, such as acid rain, UV damage, salt water, bird or insect droppings just to name a few…. keeping your boat looking it’s best is an uphill battle. The marine environment is unforgiving but whatever Mother Nature can hurl at your boat’s finish will be deflected by ceramic coating not wax.