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Ceramic Protection for Boats

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Caring for Your Ceramic-Coated Boat
A ceramic coating is a smart investment you can make in protecting your boat’s finish. It creates a durable, hydrophobic layer that resists UV damage, oxidation, and staining while making cleaning much easier. But like any protective system, it needs the right care to perform at its best. We can help you keep your ceramic-coated boat looking sharp and protected.

🚿 Washing a Boat with a Ceramic Coating
  • Use the right soap: We only use a pH-neutral, wax-free boat soap when washing a ceramic-coated boat. Ceramic coatings are designed to bond directly to the gelcoat or paint. Using soaps that contain wax or gloss enhancers can leave behind a residue that clogs the coating’s pores, reducing its hydrophobic properties and dulling the finish.
  • Gentle technique: We rinse thoroughly first to remove loose salt and debris. We then use a soft wash mitt or deck brush, working in straight lines rather than circles, to avoid micro-marring.
  • Rinse and dry: We finish the wash with a freshwater rinse and then dry topside areas with a clean microfiber towel or a squeegee to prevent water spots.
Why avoid soap with wax in it? Wax-based soaps may seem like they add shine, but they actually mask the ceramic coating and interfere with its performance. Instead of enhancing protection, they create a temporary film that reduces water beading and can even attract dirt.

✨ The Importance of a Ceramic Topcoat
Even though ceramic coatings are long-lasting, they benefit from regular maintenance. Applying a ceramic topcoat (also called a ceramic detail spray) every few months helps:
  • Extend the life of the coating by reinforcing the protective layer.
  • Restore shine so the surface looks freshly detailed.
  • Refresh hydrophobic properties to keep water beading and sheeting at their peak.
Think of a topcoat as a booster shot. It doesn’t replace the base coating, but it keeps it performing like new.

🛡️ Ceramic Coatings vs. Ceramic Detail Sprays
It’s important to understand the difference between these two products. A traditional ceramic coating must be professionally applied in enclosed space with special spray guns. It can last up to 5 years depending on how many layers were applied and it requires curing time so the ceramic will bond to the surface properly. It acts as the primary shield against UV, oxidation, and staining.
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A c
eramic detail spray, also called a "topcoat" helps extend the life of the ceramic coating. It maintains, refreshes, and enhances the base coating. It's easier to apply; you simply spray it on and wipe it in. A ceramic topcoat typically lasts for a few months in a marine environment. It adds slickness, shine, and water beading between washes.

In short: the ceramic coating is the foundation, while the topcoat is the maintenance layer that keeps everything performing at its best.

⚓ Final Word
With the right care, regular washes using wax-free soap and periodic topcoat applications, will keep your ceramic-coated boat glossy, protected, and easier to maintain season after season.
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👉 Fill out our estimate request form today to get a full list of our services and rates and schedule your wash, wax, or full-service detail so you can keep your boat in top condition all year long.

The best way to contact us is through our estimate request form if you're a new customer, or via email if you're a current customer.

​[email protected]
425-406-4084
Deckhand Detailing, established in 1990, offers affordable and high quality boat cleaning and detailing services including boat washing, boat buffing and waxing, boat interior and exterior cleaning and more. We're experienced, friendly and easy to work with because we love what we do! 

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  • Home
  • About Us
    • Our Story
    • Our Book
    • Boat Detailing Locations
    • How To Hire A Detailer
    • 10 Reasons to Hire Us
  • Services
    • Boat Washing
    • Boat Waxing
    • Interior Cleaning
    • Ceramic Protection
    • Yacht Brokerage Services
    • Mobile Boat Detailing
    • Buffing and Polishing FAQ | Seattle Boat Detailing
    • Boat Detailing Service FAQs
  • Store
    • Detailing Products
    • Detailing Tools
    • Marine Application
  • Photos
  • Estimate Request
  • Detailing Articles
  • Testimonials