Ceramic Coating FAQs

How Does a Ceramic Coating Work?

Ceramic coatings are liquid nano-ceramic polymers (commonly SiO₂ or SiC-based) that form a cross-linked, semi-permanent bond with your clear coat. Unlike waxes or sealants that merely sit on top of the paint, coatings chemically integrate with the clear coat to become a hard, sacrificial barrier. They can only be removed by abrasion (machine polishing), not detergents.

At Omni Garage, we only stand behind coatings we’ve proven ourselves. Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light (CSL) and Crystal Serum Ultra (CSU) represent the benchmark in modern ceramic technology — and we know this first-hand, having used both on our own vehicles for over six years.

Their proven benefits include:

• Up to 10H+ Hardness – Adds a tough protective layer that dramatically reduces swirl marks, light scratches, and micro-marring.
• Hydrophobic Properties – Water contact angles of up to 115° create extreme water-beading and sheeting, keeping your car cleaner for longer.
• High Gloss & Depth – Enhances paintwork with a rich, wet-look shine that lasts.
• UV & Chemical Resistance – Shields against fading, oxidation, bird droppings, bug splatter, and harsh chemicals.
• Easier Maintenance – Washing and drying become quicker, with less effort and fewer water spots.
• Long-Lasting Protection – With durability ranging from 5 to 9 years, coatings retain gloss and clarity in real-world conditions.

What's The Difference Between a 5 or 9 Year Coating?

The difference comes down to the formula and how it’s applied. Our 9-year coating, Crystal Serum Ultra uses a denser, tougher version of the coating chemistry, which cures to a harder surface than our 5-year offering Crystal Serum Light.

This makes a 9-year coating even more resistant to swirls, UV rays, and harsh chemicals.

Crystal Serum Light (5-Year):

• Hardness: ~9H (pencil hardness)
• Durability: Up to 5 years with proper maintenance
• Performance: Offers excellent gloss, hydrophobic performance, and protection against UV, chemicals, and light swirls.

Crystal Serum Ultra (9-Year):

• Hardness: 10H (pencil hardness)
• Durability: Up to 9 years with proper maintenance
• Performance: Provides maximum hardness, chemical resistance, and gloss retention.
• Professional Only: Available exclusively via accredited installers, offering maximum chemical resistance, swirl resistance, hydrophobic performance, UV protection, and long-term durability.

Do Ceramic Coatings Prevent All Scratches?

Ceramic coatings offer robust resistance to light swirls and marring, but they are not scratch-proof. Major impacts—like stone chips, deep scratches, or collisions—can still damage the paint. Think of coatings as a hardened shield, not an invincible armor.

Do I Still Need to Wash My Car?

Yes! Coatings don’t eliminate the need for washing—they make it easier. Dirt and contaminants don’t bond as firmly, so wash sessions are quicker and less frequent, with fewer water spots.

How Do I Maintain a Coated Vehicle?

For best results:

• Use the two-bucket washing method with a pH-neutral shampoo.
• Avoid harsh brushes—hand washing with a microfibre wash pad is always safer.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with multiple clean microfiber towels, or alternatively, don't touch the paint at all after washing and dry using a leaf blower.
• For ongoing care, consider Omni Garage's subscription based wash service.

Can I Apply Coating Over Damaged Paint?

Ceramic coatings lock in your paint’s current condition—flaws, blemishes, and all. That’s why we always recommend paint enhancement or correction first, to ensure you’re sealing in a flawless finish—not flaws.