Best coating for scratch resistance?

[TTBear]

This is the exactly the reason why I suggested a pro to you. You do not want to apply a coating (any coating) the Zaino way. You want a thick coat. As I said above, there is a difference between applying a coating vs applying it properly. In any case, if you can`t wipe off the paint without marring it, I am not sure how you will have defect free finish prior to applying a coating.

Good luck.

Thank you for your input, Tomas. I agree - generally, a professional would have better skills in applying a coating. When I mentioned Zaino, it was not with reference to a thin application, but rather, the ability to get complete, uniform coverage, which I find is the most important thing. Apologies - I should have been more clear for you.

No need to get defensive. I GREATLY admire the skills possessed by the detailers on this forum, and have nothing but respect for all of you. However, to automatically assume that NOBODY, apart from a qualified detailer has the skills to apply a coating, is quite frankly, ludicrous. I do apply a coating "properly", as you would emphasize. It really is NOT that difficult, as I`m sure many hobbyist detailers on this or other forums would attest to.

I do not wish to get into an inflammatory diatribe with you, or anyone on this board - I come here for information, and others` input, which is ALL greatly appreciated - including yours, and I thank you for your opinion. It just doesn`t really help me with my original question, which was WHICH coating to use, rather than asking for a reprimand regarding having the audacity to even ATTEMPT applying a coating, because surely, I would and could not possibly possess the skills necessary.



I agree - coatings are not for everyone to apply. I am confident in my abilitiy to do it correctly, as you are, in yours. It would be quite erroneous to generalize, and simply state that there is some holy grail, some magical level that one must attain, in order to qualify for coating application, that`s all I`m saying.

Could we please get back to my original question? Thanks.

[AutopiaTech]

Cquartz UK is a great coating. Instead of worrying about scratch resistance, do some research and find out the best way to prevent scratches by using proper washing techniques, quality shampoos, detail sprays, etc. There`s a lot of information on Autopia about the proper way to touch your vehicle to keep it swirl and scratch free.

[RaysWay]

Put me down for a vote on Optimum Gloss-Coat. I`ve been really pleased with the lack of swirls on my car after applying Gloss-Coat on my car almost 1 year ago.

Another coating system I haven`t seen mentioned yet which I think should be considered is the C1 + EXO combo from GTechniq. Although a little more finicky to apply, I`ve heard great things about that system.

[TTBear]

Cquartz UK is a great coating. Instead of worrying about scratch resistance, do some research and find out the best way to prevent scratches by using proper washing techniques, quality shampoos, detail sprays, etc. There`s a lot of information on Autopia about the proper way to touch your vehicle to keep it swirl and scratch free.

Agreed, absolutely. I think there are definitely always ways to improve, in this area. There may be a few obstacles on occasion - I will take a couple of driving tours with an exotic car group each summer, and on these, it`s difficult to practise perfect wash techniques (good luck fitting two buckets in my car, haha)(although I am the guy that carries more detailing stuff than personal luggage on those trips )

thanks!!!

Put me down for a vote on Optimum Gloss-Coat. I`ve been really pleased with the lack of swirls on my car after applying Gloss-Coat on my car almost 1 year ago.

Another coating system I haven`t seen mentioned yet which I think should be considered is the C1 + EXO combo from GTechniq. Although a little more finicky to apply, I`ve heard great things about that system.

I think I am going to try this one - it seems to have quite a few votes, and may be what I`m looking for. THANKS!!!!


Thanks everyone.


Just purely out of curiosity, can anyone tell me exactly what the process is for becoming a certified Optimum installer? Do they have a formalized credentialing process? Is there an exam process, where an applicant`s abilities are assessed by a governing body, prior to being assigned the title of accredited installer?

[Thomas Dekany]

Just purely out of curiosity, can anyone tell me exactly what the process is for becoming a certified Optimum installer? Do they have a formalized credentialing process? Is there an exam process, where an applicant`s abilities are assessed by a governing body, prior to assigning the status of accredited installer?

You shouldn`t have taken my suggestion to see a pro personally. It isn`t you, it is the product. Trust me, even some seasoned pros have issues with applying OCP. It isn`t just about putting down a layer and call it a day. How much you put down, how even, how fast you wipe off high spots, how much do you actually wipe off without removing too much product.

You have to respect Optimum enough to trust them why OCP is not a consumer product. Read up on coating threads. See how many complain about "lack of durability" about coatings in general. Never the product, always the installer.

[Thomas Dekany]

I am not defesive, not sure where you read that - you asked for the best protection. I suggested OCP - the longest lasting hardest finish of all coatings. Unfortunately, it isn`t sold to the public.

Opti Coat is an actual clear coat. After 30 days, once OCP is fully cured, you will have a harder finish than the OEM paint. And the good thing is that you only need to do it once. Not every 2 years.

Gloss Coat is a good choice though.

Thank you for your input, Tomas. I agree - generally, a professional would have better skills in applying a coating. When I mentioned Zaino, it was not with reference to a thin application, but rather, the ability to get complete, uniform coverage, which I find is the most important thing. Apologies - I should have been more clear for you.

No need to get defensive. I GREATLY admire the skills possessed by the detailers on this forum, and have nothing but respect for all of you. However, to automatically assume that NOBODY, apart from a qualified detailer has the skills to apply a coating, is quite frankly, ludicrous. I do apply a coating "properly", as you would emphasize. It really is NOT that difficult, as I`m sure many hobbyist detailers on this or other forums would attest to.

I do not wish to get into an inflammatory diatribe with you, or anyone on this board - I come here for information, and others` input, which is ALL greatly appreciated - including yours, and I thank you for your opinion. It just doesn`t really help me with my original question, which was WHICH coating to use, rather than asking for a reprimand regarding having the audacity to even ATTEMPT applying a coating, because surely, I would and could not possibly possess the skills necessary.



I agree - coatings are not for everyone to apply. I am confident in my abilitiy to do it correctly, as you are, in yours. It would be quite erroneous to generalize, and simply state that there is some holy grail, some magical level that one must attain, in order to qualify for coating application, that`s all I`m saying.

Could we please get back to my original question? Thanks.

[TTBear]

You shouldn`t have taken my suggestion to see a pro personally. It isn`t you, it is the product. Trust me, even some seasoned pros have issues with applying OCP. It isn`t just about putting down a layer and call it a day. How much you put down, how even, how fast you wipe off high spots, how much do you actually wipe off without removing too much product.

You have to respect Optimum enough to trust them why OCP is not a consumer product. Read up on coating threads. See how many complain about "lack of durability" about coatings in general. Never the product, always the installer.

thanks Thomas. I really didn`t take anything personally. I love that you are passionate about what you do. I really was just genuinely curious about how to become accredited, as even though I do have a regular job, I have always had an interest in pursuing detailing further.

I do realize that you guys have amazing skills. That`s why I come to this forum! Thanks

[RaskyR1]

You shouldn`t have taken my suggestion to see a pro personally. It isn`t you, it is the product. Trust me, even some seasoned pros have issues with applying OCP. It isn`t just about putting down a layer and call it a day. How much you put down, how even, how fast you wipe off high spots, how much do you actually wipe off without removing too much product.

You have to respect Optimum enough to trust them why OCP is not a consumer product. Read up on coating threads. See how many complain about "lack of durability" about coatings in general. Never the product, always the installer.

Funny, when I discovered an issue with OCP in early 2011 and informed Dr. G it was clearly the product and (2) 40cc syringes were sent out to me because of it, of course nothing was done about the cars that had already been coated with the defective product.

[RaskyR1]

I am not defesive, not sure where you read that - you asked for the best protection. I suggested OCP - the longest lasting hardest finish of all coatings. Unfortunately, it isn`t sold to the public.

Opti Coat is an actual clear coat. After 30 days, once OCP is fully cured, you will have a harder finish than the OEM paint. And the good thing is that you only need to do it once. Not every 2 years.

Gloss Coat is a good choice though.

No, he asked what the best coating was for scratch resistance.

[Thomas Dekany]

No, he asked what the best coating was for scratch resistance.

Same difference. Are you not protecting the finish from scratches?

OCP is the answer.

[RaskyR1]

Same difference. Are you not protecting the finish from scratches?

OCP is the answer.

No, proper washing and drying is the answer.

Prime example right here...

corrected and coated with OCP


And then this OCP after 1 year, still had good gloss, good beading, but....







The above results would have been the same had any of the coatings I`ve tested been used.

[Oldfordisbetter]

Same difference. Are you not protecting the finish from scratches?

OCP is the answer.

Ceramic Pro is the answer. Just messing with you I have no idea. OP if you have some pro installers in your area of whatever coating why not see if they will sell you the pro version of whichever coating they install. Have them give you some tips how to apply, you can apply to your high standards, you get a quality coating better than the consumer level. Thing is im assuming the pros cant sell it to ya.

[Oldfordisbetter]

Rasky, any idea what that car was washed with? Did it go through automatic car wash?

[Ronkh]

[Ronkh]

any idea what that car was washed with? Did it go through automatic car wash?