What to Do If It Rains Right After Crystal Coating?
2 Answers
If it rains right after crystal coating, it is recommended to move the car indoors and gently dab the body dry with a dry towel (note: do not wipe). Generally, rain after 24 hours of coating is not a problem, and after 7 days, it is completely safe to expose the car to rain or wash it. Below is an introduction to automotive paint crystal coating: 1. Automotive paint crystal coating involves applying a thin film over the car's paint surface to maintain its gloss and provide a physical protective layer, thereby safeguarding the paint. 2. Automotive paint crystal coating is a type of macromolecular polymer, essentially a chain of interconnected molecules. Due to its strong film-forming properties, it can create a true protective film.
I also enjoy doing car maintenance myself, and it’s really frustrating when it rains right after applying a ceramic coating. That period after coating is crucial—the layer hasn’t fully hardened yet and is as sensitive as fresh paint. If it gets rained on, don’t panic and rush to wipe it—wiping water droplets directly can leave scratches or watermarks, making things worse. I’ve had a similar experience before—my car was parked outside when it suddenly rained, so I quickly moved it under a shelter and let it air dry naturally without touching it. After a day or two, check the car body. If there are no water spots or marks, it’s probably fine. But if you notice small bumps or a hazy appearance, the coating might be damaged, and you’ll need to redo that section or consult the coating shop. It’s always best to choose a sunny day for this and check the weather forecast in advance. Our cars are our treasures, and if the coating isn’t properly cured, it can affect water and dirt resistance, eventually leading to paint corrosion, so timely action is important. By the way, avoid washing the car too often in the first week after coating to let the protective layer fully set.