While the upfront market cost of ceramic coating may seem steep compared to traditional waxing or sealants, its longevity makes it worth it in the long run. The glossy finish, similar to a fresh paint job, also tends to last much longer than wax or paint sealants, reducing the frequency at which you'd need detailing.

The cons of ceramic coating It's not a permanent solution. Ceramic coating will eventually wear off, so you'll need to have it reapplied every few years to maintain the protection. It's not cheap. Ceramic coating typically costs several hundred dollars to have applied, so it's not an inexpensive option upfront.

With proper maintenance, most ceramic coatings will last 2 to 5 years or 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, many factors play a role in how long ceramic coatings effectively protect car paint.

So, if you're going to dabble in ceramic coating installation yourself, make sure to wear protective gloves, a breathing respirator, and eye protection – especially if you do the installation in a controlled indoor environment – which is highly recommended for best results.