I get a lot of questions about ceramic coating, and a lot of what's online oversells it. So here's the straight version of what a Cerakote ceramic coating is, what it isn't, and what to expect if you bring your car to us in Woodinville.
Who applies it
Burdys Auto Detail is a Cerakote ProTeam Authorized Applicator. Cerakote is the coating I recommend first. DuraSlic is also available if it's a better fit for your car or budget.
Where it's done
Ceramic coating is done indoors at our Woodinville shop, about 6 minutes from downtown Woodinville. It isn't a mobile service. The coating needs a clean, controlled space to go on and cure properly, and a driveway in Northwest weather isn't that. Our regular detailing is different: we can come to you (we just need access to water and power), or you can drop it off at the shop, whatever's easiest.
What the work actually involves
Most of the job is prep, not the coating itself:
A thorough wash and decontamination to pull out iron and embedded grime
Clay work to get the paint smooth
Polishing as needed, based on the paint's condition
Then the coating, and time to cure
The coating locks in whatever condition the paint is in when it goes on. That's why the prep matters so much.
What it won't do
It isn't scratch-proof. It can resist light wash marring better than bare paint, but it won't stop rock chips, key scratches or a bad car wash.
It won't hide deep defects. Scratches that go through the clear coat need correction or touch-up, and some can't be fully removed.
It doesn't mean you never wash the car. You still do, it's just faster and easier.
Living with it on the Eastside
Around here it's rain, road grime, pollen in the spring and tunnel washes that leave swirls. A coating helps water bead and sheet off, keeps grime and pollen from sticking as hard, and makes a regular hand wash go a lot quicker. It makes upkeep easier. It doesn't make a car maintenance-free.
Pricing and warranty
Cerakote ceramic coating starts at $1,995 for coupes and sedans. Larger vehicles and paint that needs more correction cost more, and I'll give you a real quote after looking at the car. Every coating comes with a 5-year limited warranty, kept active by the included 6-month maintenance plan.
Next step
If you're thinking about a coating, take a look at our ceramic coating page or book a time and I'll look at your car and tell you honestly what it needs.
