Side-by-side comparison
Ceramic Coating vs Paint Protection Film
Real comparison from a working detail shop, not a generic SEO matrix. We do both — here's how each fits.
| Ceramic Coating | Paint Protection Film | |
|---|---|---|
| Short version | Professional ceramic coating with full paint prep. Multi-year hydrophobic protection on properly corrected paint. | Self-healing urethane film applied to high-impact areas — front bumper, hood, fenders, mirrors. Stops rock chips. Optional full-front or full-vehicle install. |
| Typical price | $799 – $2400 | $899 – $6500 |
| Duration | Two days. Vehicle stays with us overnight to cure. | One day for front packages. Two to three days for full vehicle. |
| Recovery / lasts | 48 hours no water contact, 7 days before machine washing | 7 days before any wash. 30 days before any wax or sealant on the film. |
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| Not the right call when | Skip ceramic coating if you sell or trade cars every 2 years — the cost does not return in resale at that horizon. Get a polish and seal instead. | PPF on the whole car is overkill for daily drivers. Front-end coverage (bumper, hood, fenders, mirrors, headlights) protects the parts that actually take rock damage. Save the money on the back panels. |
About Ceramic Coating
About Paint Protection Film
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Ceramic Pro Authorized Installer
Serving the Raleigh area
Mon-Sat 8am-7pm