Coating maintenance and lifespan

[DownSouth]

According to the manufactures, ceramic/graphene coatings need maintenance for maximum performance/longevity. This is accomplished by washing with a SiO2/graphene infused shampoo or applying a topper monthly, along with periodic deconning. These steps bring back the visual properties that may have diminished since the initial application of the coating. That includes gloss, slickness and water beading. ALL of these properties are seen even when the maintenance products are used as stand-alones. So my question is, if water beading and gloss are "boosted" regularly with maintenance products, how would one ever know when the coating is dead and should be re-applied? If regular maintenance is performed, the visual clues that usually tell you the protection is at the end of it's life are no longer reliable. Is it the coating or the maintenance product causing the gloss and water beading?

 

[Riviera_Bluesman]

The short answer is you never really know for sure. The life of a coating can be maximized with ongoing maintenance, but even if you no longer see what you mentioned as “visual clues” does not necessarily mean that your protection is gone.

The environment your vehicle is subject to plays a major role here. Is it kept outside 24/7 or garaged every night? Do you have all types of weather where you live? Subject to road salt, etc.?

What your vehicle is exposed to every day and how long it’s been since you last applied some protection are your best indicator. Manufacturer durability claims can also give you an idea. The long and short of it is you need to just use your best judgment. Gloss and water beading alone do not tell the whole story.