Most car owners take pride in their vehicles. They put a lot of effort into maintaining its original new look. Despite the care and effort car owners put into the paint, it ends up getting ruined due to environmental contaminants. The Australian environment has a way of working against them. Even the most careful owner eventually faces the same reality, like coastal salt air, scorching UV rays, dusty winds, sudden rain, and intense sunshine don’t just sit on the surface. They gradually break down the paint, dull the gloss, and accelerate wear, which is why regular washing alone often isn’t enough to keep a car looking new.
Keep in mind that even the small mistakes in maintenance and cleaning can often result in expensive problems. This is also the reason why professional coatings are a must. Graphene Coating and ceramic coating have proven to be highly effective forms of surface protection. It prevents daily wear and ensures long-term maintenance.
These advanced formulations create a glossy and durable layer. It acts as a shield for the paint from harsh environmental exposure and everyday wear. However, a professional application is a must to ensure your maintenance remains easy.
Let’s look at the most common mistakes Australian car owners make, and how a professional-grade coating from Kovalent Coatings can address each one.
Mistake 1- Frequent harsh washing can damage the paint
Many car owners wash their vehicles several times, thinking it will help maintain a sparkling finish. However, what they don’t know is that frequent aggressive washing does more harm than good. Abrasive sponges, rough brushes, and strong shampoo create micro scratches and swirl marks. It can also strip the light access from your car’s surface, leaving it unprotected.
How can a professional coating fix this?
A high-quality graphene or ceramic coating forms a smooth, durable barrier over the paint that can resist minor scratches, prevent dirt from bonding to the surface, and encourage water to slide off effortlessly. Therefore, gentle cleaning becomes enough.
- Resistance to minor scratches
- Hydrophobic surface
- Easy maintenance
- Long-lasting shine
Mistake 2- Ignoring bird droppings and splatter
Bird droppings and tree sap are a part of nature. You cannot ignore it. These contain sticky and acidic compounds. If left unattended, they will eat the clear coat, resulting in permanent etching. Bug splatter behaves similarly; once it hardens under the sun, it clings to the paint and becomes difficult to remove. The heat accelerates chemical reactions in Australia and results in extreme damage.
How can a professional coating fix this?
Ceramic and graphene coating adds a powerful layer of protection over the paint. It creates a strong barrier that prevents acidic contaminants from quickly bonding to the paint. This gives owners valuable time to clean the area before any permanent marks develop. The ultra-smooth surface also makes it harder for droppings to cling to the paint, allowing them to be removed with far less effort. However, this does not mean you should let bird droppings or tree sap sit on the vehicle for long. These substances can still etch the coating over time, so it’s essential to wipe them off as soon as possible.
- Strong resistance to acidic etching
- Slows down the bonding of contaminants
- Effortless cleaning
- Peace of mind with outdoor parking
Mistake 3- Neglecting UV protection
The Australian sun is fierce. If you put your vehicle under constant sunlight, it can fade the paint and also result in oxidising clear coats. Many owners underestimate the need for proper UV protection, often realising the damage only when the surface starts to look dull, dry, or lifeless. Without a protective barrier, the sun’s heat and UV rays slowly break down the paint, affecting both appearance and longevity.
How can a professional coating fix this?
Graphene and ceramic coatings contain advanced silica nanoparticles that enhance their UV-blocking capabilities. These formulations are designed specifically for extreme weather conditions, creating a stable barrier against UV-induced degradation. This prevents premature aging and helps keep the paint healthier for longer.
- Long-lasting colour with strong UV protection
- Reduce oxidation
- Deep glossy effect
Mistake 4- Using the wrong cleaning products and chemicals
Several car owners try to do good, but actually harm their vehicle. When they unknowingly use household cleaners or soaps, they strip away and damage the clear coat. Using random detailing spray can be problematic, as it can react with the protective layer. Strong chemicals, dull surface and reduce the effect of paint over time.
How can a professional coating fix this?
A professional coating acts as a chemical-resistant shield. However, it is still highly recommended to use only pH-neutral shampoos and microfiber cloths when maintaining the vehicle after the coating is applied. This helps keep the coating intact for the long run and makes ongoing maintenance a breeze.
- Builds chemical resistance
- Reduces the chances of accidental paint damage
- Great maintenance sessions.
Why are ceramic and graphene coatings an ideal choice in Australian weather?
The ceramic and graphene coating designed at Kovalent Coatings is known for its premium quality. These are high-grade coatings suitable for Australian conditions. The products are able to deliver stunning visual depth and ability. These coatings bond at the molecular level with the clear paint and create a stable shield. The shield is able to resist daily wear and environmental exposure. The next-gen Graphene Matrix Coating by Kovalent Coatings comes with a self-healing mechanism that heals minor scratches and swirl marks effortlessly through its self-healing effect.
Why is a Professional Application non-negotiable?
Professional application of ceramic coating is always non-negotiable. Professional detailers apply in a structured and careful process. The professionals use a routine method to improve bonding, durability, and gloss.
- The surface is thoroughly washed, machine-polished, and finally degreased to remove any residual oils. This way, a clean and smooth foundation is created for a strong addition.
- Before application, the bottle is gently shaken to activate the formulation. Detailers open the lid and apply a generous amount through a dry and fresh applicator. The product is applied in a crosshatch pattern on small sections. The method makes sure to completely cover while preventing uneven distribution or spots.
- Once the coating starts bonding and shows a light rainbow effect, it is immediately wiped off. The maximum waiting time is 30 seconds. 2 Microfibre clothes are used for this purpose. One cloth removes most of the coating from the panel, and the second removes the remaining residue to reveal a polished finish. The careful technique of using two microfiber cloths prevents streaks and maintains uniform colour.
- The vehicle can be driven after 24 hours of application. However, technicians also advise manual washing up to 7 days and reducing contact with water.
Final thoughts
Australian weather can be a major challenge for car owners. Owners mostly make small mistakes without understanding the long-term impact. Ignoring contamination, harsh washing, skipping UV protection, neglecting maintenance, and using the wrong products can actually reduce the value of paint.
Professional graphene coating or ceramic coating from Kovalent Coatings prevents such problems. It transforms your overall maintenance experience. Not only does your car look new, but it is also easier to clean, more resistant to damage, and more attractive on the road.
