Glass Coating Your Car Windscreen For a Better Driving Experience
Car owners often tend to focus on protecting the gloss on their car. Some also go ahead and keep their wheels shiny and clean using ceramic coating. This article illustrates why windshields need to be protected too.
One reason is for optimal visibility because a good quality product will make your windshield clean and clear. Ceramic coating is a detailing product that ensures you are able to see clearly- particularly during foggy weather and rainstorms. It also offers optimal protection against contaminants, UV rays, road debris and tree sap.
There are many ceramic coating products that offer this quality protection and a clear look. It can therefore become quite the chore to find the right windshield ceramic coating. This article attempts to make all that easier. It is a complete guide on ceramic coatings like Armor Shield IX, factors you need to consider when buying this product as well as frequently asked questions.
Some ceramic coatings like Armor Shield IX are versatile products. Armor Shield can be applied on the windshield, car paint, vinyl wraps and fiberglass as well.
Best Ceramic Coating for Windshields
Comparison table
McKee’s 37 Glass Coating
McKee’s 37 is a Nano-glass ceramic coating that is highly hydrophobic. It creates a second protective layer that is crystal clear on windshields. This good looking exterior is impenetrable to harmful UV rays, dirt buildup and road debris.
It also keeps your windshield clean in between washes. This is because the second layer that repels water, contaminants, dirt and oil. Developed and tested in South Florida, these hydrophobic properties are guaranteed because that region is one of the wettest parts of USA.
The application process consists of deep cleaning and prepping first. Finally, the ceramic coating can be sprayed on and spread out evenly. No buffing or heavy rubbing is needed making this product quite easy to use. Once applied, you get a slick look on your windshield instantly.
Key Features
- Super hydrophobic elements, water beads up and makes the windshield easy to clean and manage
- Fills minor scratches
- Sold as a complete kit with 3 microfiber cloths, an applicator pad, coating prep polish and SiO2 auto wash among other items
- 9H hardness
Pros
- Single application lasts up to 12 months
- Improves visibility especially during rainy conditions
- Easy to use as all you need is to spray the coating and spread it evenly using the foam applicator
Con
- Can be super streaky
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Gold Label Detailing Window and Glass Ceramic Coating
Gold Label is a good quality ceramic coating that offers optimal windshield protection. It is sold in a 15ml bottle that is enough for an application and lasts for a long time. Gold Label protects against harmful UV rays, extensive heat and water damage. This prevents internal fading. It also gives your glass a clear, glossy look that increases visibility when driving especially in bad weather. To add, this product reduces wear and tear of your wipers as it reduces the need for constant wiping and unnecessary friction.
Key Features
- Extremely hydrophobic, repelling water and rain
- Highly durable product that offers windshield protection for up to 12 months
- Uses Nano-technology
- Complete kit with an application sponge, 1 suede microfiber towel and a 15ml window ceramic coating
Pros
- Increases visibility
- Exquisite water beading that makes this product even the more effective
- Protects against water chipping, UV ray damage and excess heat
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Armor Shield IX Kit
Armor Shield is a do-it-yourself kit that has everything you need during the application of this quality ceramic coating. A high quality microfiber cloth, 3 applicators, professional gloves and an application sponge are included in this package.
It can be applied at the comfort of your home even if you are an amateur at it. Armor Shield kit comes with instructions that are as clear as can be. Nonetheless, the process entails proper prepping and cleaning, application then aftercare. For optimal results, a neutral shampoo and the two-bucket washing method should be used. Ordinary windshield cleaners are not recommended as the chemicals are usually too harsh and eventually penetrate the protective barrier created by the ceramic coating.
Due to its advanced Nano-technology you can be assured of good results once applied on your windshield.
Key Features
- Creates a second layer with the windshield’s surface protecting against acid rain, UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap and other contaminants
- Good hydrophobic and anti-scratch properties
- Self-cleaning mechanism
Pros
- Application is easy and convenient
- Highly durable and protects your windshield for up to 3 years
- Glossy, brand new look
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Opti-Glass Coating
Manufactured by Optimum Technologies, Opti-Glass coating is ceramic detailing product that offers great protection for windshields. It is a resin-based coating that has an advanced formula that binds with the windshield surface.
This second layer offers protection against harmful UV rays, bird droppings and tree sap. It also keeps the windshield glossy, clean and protected. It is also highly hydrophobic and protects against sleet, rain, ice and snow fall.
For proper results and optimal protection, the windshield should be properly prepped and cleaned first.
Key Features
- Bonds with windshield’s surface to offer protection against rock chippings, bird droppings and UV rays
- Anti-scratch and hydrophobic properties
Pros
- Highly durable and lasts up to 12 months
- Easy to apply
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Mercu 9H Hardness Nano Super Ceramic Coating
Mercu 9H ceramic coating is a Nano-advanced product that offers good quality shine and protection on your windshield. It offers protection against salt, rust, bird droppings, minor scratches, acid rain and harmful UV rays among other contaminants.
The application process is pretty easy and begins with prepping first. After deep cleaning, all you need is to put the coat liquid on the coating sponge, then spread evenly on the glass. You can use a polish sponge after for light buffing if you are looking for an extra shine.
Key Features
- 9H hardness, anti-scratch and anti-acid rain
- Thick coating that acts as a protective barrier to harmful contaminants
Pros
- Glossy look that gives a mirror-like reflection
- Easy to use and maintain
Cons
- Takes quite a long time to cure
- Sold in a glass bottle that may break when dropped
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Drexler Ceramic Glass Coat
Drexler Ceramic Coating is a 9H detailing product that offers good protection for windshields. It also works for all glass parts like mirrors, windows and rooftop. It does this through the creation of a second layer that has Nano-advanced particles.
These particles make it resistant to water, super clean and highly durable. You can also be guaranteed that there will be no swirl marks or water spots.
Key Features
- Highly hydrophobic with good water beading qualities
- Sold in a 20ml bottle that comes with 2 cotton pads for application
Pros
- Increased visibility that you can even drive without wipers
- Easy application process
- Lasts between 1 and 2 years with good maintenance
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Factors to consider before buying ceramic coating for windshields
There are countless good quality ceramic coating products in the market. To narrow down your choices, these are a few factors that you should consider.
Ease of Application
Armed with a microfiber towel and foam, ceramic coating is rather easy to apply. Hard work rests on the prepping stage as your coating results are highly dependent on whether the windshield was spotless clean before application. All contaminants, residues and buildup need to be wiped off before application. Once this is done, a little of the product can be lathered on the glass.
However, some products’ application process is not as clear cut. Some require a skilled professional to get even shine and no streaks. You should therefore buy a product that fits with your level of expertise.
Budget
Ceramic coating is considerably more expensive than traditional sealants and waxes. However, there are still good quality affordable options. Ultimately, the best buy for your windshield is a product which has all the qualities you desire while still being within your budget.
Chemical Composition
Climate change is a worrying problem in our time. To protect your environment in little ways, one can purpose on buying products that are fully traditional with no harmful chemicals. Some products can be non-biodegradable thereby posing an environmental concern for years to come.
Microfiber cloth
To apply ceramic coating, a premium microfiber applicator is a must-have item. It is used to rub the gloss on your windshield as well as ensuring evenness. Most of the products listed in this guide are sold complete with a microfiber cloth. An example is Armor Shield IX DIY Kit.
A product such as this makes it a better deal because you will not need to purchase the towel at an extra cost. If you are looking to save a few coins, you should consider a ceramic coating product that comes complete with everything you need for application.
Weather
Beyond giving a glossy and clear look, windshields offer protection from harsh weather elements. If your car is often exposed to the sun or the rain, you should consider buying a product that specifically offers protection against that. For instance, there are products that are highly effective in reducing oxidation by blocking UV rays.
FAQ’s
What are the advantages of applying ceramic coating on windshields?
When it rains, it becomes really hard to see out of the front and rear windshields as well as side windows. This is because water beads up on the surface and without a protective layer, it might stick even when the wipers are engaged.
Improved visibility is one key benefit of ceramic coating on windshields. Their hydrophobic elements will give you a smooth surface that repels water providing better visibility even during heavy rains.
Ceramic coating also makes cleaning way easier because of its slippery, smooth surface that quite literally does not let dirt stick. Stains and contaminants like bird droppings, mud, tree sap and dirty water simply slide off.
This keeps your windshield clean between car wash trips. Finally, after ceramic coating cures it can last up to 5 years providing good anti-scratch qualities.
How is a ceramic coating applied on windshields?
Most of these products are easy to apply at home. They come with detailed manuals on the application process and there are many informative videos on YouTube as well.
The process generally includes proper prepping and cleaning first. It is not all so different from applying it to paint, wheels, headlights and other surfaces. However, one can also engage a professional so that no residue is left behind.
What is the maintenance required for a ceramic coated windshield?
Ceramic coating lasts up to 5 years with good maintenance. Proper washing with a neutral shampoo, drying off with a premium microfiber towel and lightly buffing is a good enough washing regime. Re-application should be done indoors or out of direct sunlight for good results.
What is the difference between ceramic coating and ceramic wax?
Both waxes and coatings are made of synthetic materials specifically designed to protect your windshield. While a coating costs more than a traditional wax, it last longer. This is the major difference as waxes can only offer protection for months at a time.
Ceramic coatings, on the other hand, are manufactured to be a long-lasting solution for all your needs. The downside with coatings is that the product may leave unwanted streaks on the glass. With a wax, you are assured of a good look when applied evenly.
Conclusion
When driving in hard conditions like heavy rain or snow fall, the state your windshield can make a whole lot of difference. A properly coated windshield is not only shiny and attractive but it also has improved visibility.
A windshield that has a good quality ceramic coating can even be driven in the rain without using wipers. Some products like Gold Label Detailing are particularly hydrophobic if that is a factor you are focused on.
Everyone would want their windshield to look as clear and shiny as it did when it was right out of the car dealership. However, normal wear and tear may lead to a smudged and old looking windshield. To restore gloss and increase visibility, a ceramic coating product should be applied.
Ceramic coating is an innovative product that offers optimum protection from harsh environmental hazards without needing repeated application. The products listed in this guide are all good quality and guaranteed to be useful to you when driving.
