FAQs

 
 

Ceramic Pro

+ Is Ceramic Pro an alternative to waxing?

Wax and ceramic coatings share a similar end goal — to protect all of your car’s surfaces including paint, chrome, plastic, and glass. But that’s where the similarities end. They both have completely different chemical structures. For example, wax will form a physical bond with a car’s paint while Ceramic Pro forms covalent bonds with the paint molecules. This doesn’t necessarily make ceramic coating a replacement but more of an upgrade. On the first hot day, wax will met, thus eliminating any proteciotn you may have had, while ceramic coating is more of a permanent option. Around here, we like to say #waxisdead.

+ What is Ceramic Pro ION?

Ceramic Pro ION is a two-component ceramic coating system that utilizes revolutionary ION Exchange Technology to fuse multiple coating layers into a single, durable, and robust protected surface. This coating technology increases the strength of the atomic bond within the two coatings, and the original substrate once applied. The result is a ceramic coating that produces twice the durability, integrity, and longevity of traditional nanoceramic coatings.

+ Does Ceramic Pro make any other products for use on other surfaces?

Ceramic Pro offers a variety of formulations for different surfaces of the car. These include its flagship product Ceramic Pro ION, Ceramic Pro Wheel & Caliper, Ceramic Pro Glass, Ceramic Pro Leather, Ceramic Pro Textile, Ceramic Pro Plastic. We can ceramic coat everything from the car’s exterior, to the interior, windshield, leather seats to fabrics; there’s a Ceramic Pro product formulated specifically for every surface.

+ Can I apply Ceramic Pro to my car myself?

Due to the complexity of the professional-grade ceramic coating, the preparation work is much more intense than a DIY ceramic coating. It’s best to have it applied by trained and certified professionals. In fact, it’s mandatory for every installer to undergo rigorous training before they are allowed to apply Ceramic Pro products on any vehicle. VIP Auto Spa is the leading Ceramic Pro Elite dealer for Ceramic Pro products in the greater Reno/Tahoe area.

+ My car has scratches and swirl marks, will Ceramic Pro be applied over this?

No, our trained and certified professionals are experts in the art of paint correction. This involves buffing(removing oxidation, blemishes, and light scratches that years of exposure to the elements can leave on a vehicle's paint). Only then will we apply Ceramic Pro coating. We like to think of the prep process as performing a “super detail,” meaning every surface is prepped before the car is frozen in under a rock-hard glass shield.

+ How much does it cost to have Ceramic Pro applied?

The price varies by vehicle model, size, condition, and the package you choose. Contact us for a free quote. One of our Ceramic Pro specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

+ Are there any long-term drawbacks of Ceramic Coatings?

If properly maintained, there are no drawbacks of ceramic coatings — only benefits. In fact, prize-winning vehicles and competition cars win higher points when they are ceramic coated. Around here, we like to ask, “What is the alternative to ceramic coating, considering how soft automotive paint has become and the lack of other options to help keep your car’s surface looking new?”

+ Will Ceramic Pro hurt my car’s resale value?

Absolutely not! In fact, adding Ceramic Pro to the exterior of a vehicle will do the opposite and help maintain and increase the resale value. With the addition of Ceramic Pro to a vehicle, the car has an incredibly durable layer of nano-ceramic coating that mitigates damage, provides added UV protection among many other awesome benefits. Ceramic Pro is the only Ceramic Coating that is approved and able to be registered by CarFax. This registration shows up on any Carfax report and can help increase the resale value of a vehicle.

Aftercare

+ What is curing and how long does it take?

Curing refers to how long it takes for a ceramic coating to bond with the clear coat(the shiny transparent layer that sits atop your paint to protect it.) A new Ceramic Pro coating will take about 2-3 weeks to cure to its full strength depending on the temperature and humidity where the car is parked.During that time, some precautions should be taken:

  • Avoid parking under any trees, especially if you live in an Alpine area with pine trees that shed sap. If you do get get tree sap on your fresh coating, it should be removed ASAP using acetone (the same stuff used to remove nail polish).
  • If the coating is exposed to any kind of contaminants such as bird droppings, tree sap, water, etc., get rid of them immediately following our aftercare instructions.
  • Do not wash the vehicle for the first 2 weeks.
  • If the vehicle does get wet, be sure to dry it off as soon as the water ceases.

+ Will Ceramic Pro prevent water spots?

Ceramic Pro amongst other things is designed to protect your car’s factory clear coat and it’s tremendously effective at doing so. However, it is not bulletproof and can still get hard water spots, especially during the curing process. That’s why it’s important to follow the guidelines we will provide you on how to care for your car during the curing process. Also, it’s vital for you to always dry your car completely after washing and never leave it to “air” dry. Tap water contains minerals that may leave deposits creating water spots.

+ How long do ceramic coatings last?

Ceramic Pro forms a highly durable bond with the car’s paintwork which can last a good number of years on a well-maintained car. So it really depends on how well the coating is maintained and which package you get. That being said, Ceramic Pro will not be “washed away” or faded away by strong car wash shampoos and cleaning chemicals. However aggressive car washing with brushes or automatic car washes will reduce the lifespan of the product. That’s why we recommend only washing your car with neutral PH car cleaning products and drying it completely afterward with a microfiber cloth. Also, it’s best to wash your car at least once every week to avoid excessive build-up of contaminants.

Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Window Tint

+ What is a Paint Protection Film/Clear Bra?

Paint Protection Film (PPF), also known as Clear Bra, is an advanced polyurethane film designed to protect a vehicle's paint from damage by rock chips, scratches & dings from road debris and abrasions caused by light impacts.

Clear Bra is generally applied to a vehicle's high strike areas -- front bumper, rocker panels, fenders, headlights, hood, mirrors etc. That said, for maximum protection, a full car application is also possible.

While the film can't guarantee that your car will never get damaged, it will take a lot more force to cause noticeable scratches & dents on your car's exterior. So, as long as the film is intact, the underlying paint will remain as good as new! This is a fantastic way to protect your car's resale value!

+ How is PPF installed?

Clear Bra installation is a meticulous and time-consuming procedure requiring a certified technician, state-of-the-art machinery and software to ensure exact alignment around air inlets, parking sensors, headlamp washers and other design elements. Even the slighted error could compromise the integrity of the film.

At VIP Auto Spa, we offer Ceramic Pro Kavaca PPF. This premium professional-grade PPF employs an innovative technology of crosslinked polymers to instantly "self-heals" from light surface scratches. The special polymers are able to revert to their natural shape after damage with requiring heating like other PPFs. Kavaca PPF also uses edge seal technology, so you don't have to worry about the film ever peeling.

+ How long will PPF last?

Warranty for the average installation is about 5-10 years, with the actual life cycle of the PPF dependent on factors like the method of care and driving conditions. After the installation, we will give you the warranty details and share a few aftercare guidelines. But don't worry, Ceramic Pro Kavaca requires no special maintenance.

+ How much does Paint Protection Film cost?

One of the great things about PPF is that it is very versatile, allowing you to choose the exact areas of your car you want it installed. At VIP Auto Spa, we have options to cater to your every need, including custom-cut car paint protection film to fit your vehicle like a glove. PPF prices start at $850 — we will be able to offer you an exact quote after a physical inspection of the vehicle.

+ Can I Get Ceramic Coating on top of the PPF?

YES! If you're looking to get the best out of your paint protection, consider combining our Ceramic Pro coatings with Kavaca PPF. This allows you to get the best of both worlds — the Ceramic Coating's hydrophobic qualities & deep shine, and the PPF's exceptional protection from road debris. Better still, we use Ceramic Pro PPF and a Vinyl Topcoat, specially formulated to protect the PPF.

+ Is PPF/Clear Bra removable?

A Paint Protection Film can be removed without causing any damage to your vehicle — but only by a trained technician, who has the proper protocols to avoid the risk of harming the vehicle's original paint. This means that if you ever accidentally scratch through it, the PPF on that specific panel can be replaced easily. It is important to note that once a PPF is removed, it can't be reused.

+ What is Kavaca Ceramic IR?

KAVACA Ceramic IR is an advanced automotive window film developed with patented nano-ceramic technology to provide superior heat rejection, glare control and UV protection. Unlike mass market window films, heat rejection and UV filtering are provided by microscopic ceramic particles, not metals.

Kavaca window films block up to 97% of infrared radiation (IR) and 99% of harmful UV rays (Kavaca film is rated at SPF500). This is very important because excessive sun exposure and harmful UVA /UVB radiation can cause everything from premature skin aging to melanoma and other skin cancers.

+ Why Install Kavaca Ceramic IR on Your Car?

* Safety. Kavaca allows only up to 70% of the light, which increases the driver's safety by preventing sunlight from glaring at them. At the same time, the driver's vision will not be affected, so they can drive safely at night. Provides increased safety in case of accidents as the sharp glass shards tend to stick to the film. This means you won’t have tint projectiles flying toward you or your loved ones in case of an accident. It also means that a car thief will have a harder time reaching inside if they smash the glass.

* Flexibility and Convenience. Even if you prefer a clear film or live in an area where regulations require clear to light tint, you can still enjoy all the benefits of Kavaca film. It is metal-free and supports signal clarity for all types of electronic devices without interfering with radio and cellular signals. Does not compromise the aesthetic look of your car.

* Comfort. Keeps the car cooler in the summer. No need to turn up the AC to its highest setting. In the winter, Kavaca window tints help retain heat inside the car. So your car’s AC doesn’t have to work as hard which means not only are you using less fuel, which is better for the environment, but it’s great for your wallet, as well. Privacy. With a Kavaca ceramic tint, it is near impossible to see what is inside the car from the outside. You can leave your bags and other items in the car without worrying about them drawing unwanted attention.

+ Why choose VIP Auto Spa/Ceramic Pro Reno for your window tint?

* Installation Specialists. We are a Ceramic Pro Elite location and specialize in installing Ceramic Pro KAVACA window tint.

* Custom Computer-Cut Film. This ensures that your window seals and door panels will not be damaged when installing the tint films. Our computer cut kits are customized to ensure the perfect fit for any car. Whether it's the windshield or the panoramic sunroof, no gaps are left uncovered.

* Lifetime Warranty. Ceramic Pro KAVACA Window Tint comes with a lifetime warranty and is guaranteed NOT to FADE, nor will it turn purple. No bubbling, no peeling, and no cracking for the LIFETIME of the film. You get the benefits of great appearance, excellent heat rejection and UV filter for a long time. If any of these issues arise, visit our shop for a professional opinion on the product's performance. We will even help you process your warranty claim.

+ How long will Kavaca Ceramic IR last?

Kavaca window films will last for many years to come. However, the actual lifespan depends on a number of factors, which include the quality of installation and overall maintenance and care.

+ How much does Kavaca tint cost?

Kavaca Ceramic IR costs $200-$1,200, depending on the number of windows included in the installation. Some clients request for Kavaca Tint installed on their headlights, taillights and a panoramic sunroof; that adds to the final cost of the Kavaca tint installation.

+ Which is the darkest tint I can get for my car?

Kavaca Ceramic IR is available in 6 different shades with a VLT of (05%, 15%, 25%, 35%, 55% and 70%), allowing you to get the exact look you want. VLT stands for Visible Light Transmittance - this is the percentage of visible light that passes through the film. The lower the percentage, the less light penetrates, resulting in a darker shade. No matter which you choose, there is no sacrifice in heat rejection. Even with a VLT rating of 70, which most people find perfectly clear and near undetectable, you get 89% protection from IR heat. UV protection is the same (99%) regardless of the tint shade you choose.

You can refer to Nevada Window Tinting Laws for further information.

Our Process

+ What kind of cars does VIP Auto Spa work on?

We pride ourselves on being the first choice when it comes to premier auto detailing in Reno, NV. Our customer base has a wide range of vehicles including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, Acura, Infiniti, Toyota, Nissan, etc.

+ Why should I bring my car to VIP Auto Spa?

Our quality and professionalism are guaranteed and unrivaled across the Greater Tahoe Area. Not only do we provide our customers with the highest level of service, but we also educate them on how to properly maintain the vehicle throughout their ownership. We keep up to date with the latest products and training to ensure all our clients benefit from the cutting-edge technology available currently in the auto detailing industry. Yes, we are fully insured for liability, loss, theft, fire and water infiltration.

DETAILING

+ Do you offer mobile detailing?

We now have a state-of-the-art detailing facility at 5301 Longey Ln. Building H-123, in Reno. We no longer offer mobile detailing services except for elite and corporate clients. It has become too difficult to work around crazy Reno weather patterns while still being able to perform consistently great results on customer cars. This means you can bring your car to us and our detailing technicians will be able to work on it indoors. We do offer pick up and/or drop off service and have a shop loaner car available on request.

Architectural Services: Ceramic & PPF

+ Can I ceramic coat Household Items?

The answer is YES. In the automotive industry, a ceramic coating is appied to the exterior of your vehicle to provide lasting protection against environmental elements. The same concept can be applied to the surfaces in your home. Using nanotechnology, the ceramic coating forms a permanent molecular bond with the surface to which it is applied. This creates a durable yet flexible protective layer that shields your home's surfaces from everyday living conditions. Since your home is probably your biggest investment (more than your car) and you spend the most time there, why not protect it and make cleaning it that much easier?

+ On what areas Can Ceramic Coating Be Applied?

We can ceramic coat all kinds of surfaces in your home. The reasons we are able to do this:

  • Nano ceramic coatings are incredibly thin. Even if you apply multiple layers, you will not be able to tell it is there.
  • Ceramic coatings cure very quickly and leave no odors.
  • Nano-ceramic coating does not change the color or texture of the item.

Our motto is #AlwaysNew and #ProtectYourInvestment. Therefore, any prized possession in your home that can benefit from a sacrificial protective layer is a candidate for a ceramic coating. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Kitchen: countertops (sealed), refrigerators, ovens, stovetops, convection ovens, grills and stainless steel appliances, as well as most cabinets can be protected with our ceramic coating.
  • Bathroom: shower doors, shower tiles (sealed), interior and exterior of toilets, sinks, washer/dryer.
  • Luxury items: handbags, watches, shoes and fine art such as sculptures, and paintings.
  • Outdoor items: skis, snowboards, wakeboards, mountain bikes, fireplace inserts, front doors.
  • Furniture: leather, textiles and high-performance fabrics of all kinds.

+ What are The Benefits of Ceramic Coating Items in My Home?

  • Stainless steel appliances stay cleaner and streak free
  • Glass (shower doors/windows) resists stains from hard water spots which makes it easy to clean
  • Repels liquids on fabrics and laminated leather, preventing stains and discoloration Provides a hygienic surface on countertops and appliances
  • Anti-graffiti properties make it easy to remove markers, paint, and other stains from ceramic-coated surfaces.
  • Prevents rust and corrosion on outdoor furniture

+ How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last?

That depends on the type of coating and the surface to which it is applied. It also depends on how well the coating is maintained. The good news is that Ceramic Pro is chemical resistant, so it will not be washed off by strong household chemicals. However, aggressive washing with brushes will shorten the lifespan of the product. We recommend cleaning the ceramic-coated surface only with microfiber cloths.

Architectural Services: Kavaca Tint

+ What are the Benefits of Getting Home Window Tint (Ceramic Pro Kavaca)

By tinting your windows with Ceramic Pro Kavaca, your address of challenges many homeowners face.

  • Privacy: our Kavaca film blocks the view from the outside in. At the same time, the film is specially designed to maintain a view from the inside out and allow an excellent amount of visible light to pass through the glass. This allows you to enjoy the comfort of privacy without sacrificing your view or natural light.
  • Regulation of indoor temperature: by tinting the windows in your home, it is possible to ensure a controllable and comfortable indoor temperature. Our Kavaca film can reflect up to 97% of the sun's energy. It is important to note that the Kavaca film does not make your home unnecessarily cold, but only repels excess heat, preventing the steady buildup of heat throughout the day.
  • Energy cost savings: During hot summers, Kavaca window film can keep out a lot of the sun's heat, so you do not have to run your air conditioner as often. The energy savings can reduce your overall utility costs by up to 40%.
  • Superior to blinds or curtains, solar heat can still penetrate the glass even when they are closed. In addition, blinds and curtains block both the view and light, negating two of the most important benefits of windows. Finally, both curtains and blinds can be difficult to clean, while window films can be wiped clean quickly with any of our recommended household cleaners.

+ How Much Does Home Window Tinting Cost?

That depends on the size, shape, and accessibility of your window.

+ Should I Tint All of My Windows?

This depends on your sun exposure. The more sun that comes through your windows, the more benefits the film offers. If you can only afford to tint a few windows and you run your air conditioner frequently, you should focus on the south and west-facing windows first.

+ Where Else Can I Apply Ceramic Pro Kavaca Tint?

A Kavaca window film can be applied not only to windows, but also to any other places where you have glazing such as glass doors, partitions, or shower screens.