Application Process: Cerakote Professional Paint Coating – How Easy Is It?
Cerakote Professional Ceramic Paint Coating claims pro-grade protection, but how simple is it to actually apply? In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through the full installation process, from prep to curing, and compare it directly to the ease of applying The Gloss Boss — a pro-level coating designed for both detailers and DIY users.
Estimated Reading Time: Less than 10 minutes
Introduction: The Truth About Ceramic Coating Application
Every professional coating brand talks about “ease of use,” but the reality is that not all ceramics are created equal. Cerakote Professional is marketed as a high-end system requiring precision and control, while The Gloss Boss was built to give the same pro-level results with half the effort. We tested both to see how much work it really takes to install Cerakote versus The Gloss Boss.
What’s Included in Cerakote’s Professional Kit
The Cerakote Professional Ceramic Paint Coating kit includes:
- → 30mL coating vial
- → Suede applicator and block
- → Prep cleaner
- → Two microfiber towels
- → Instruction manual
The product is intended for professional use — meaning it assumes you have an indoor, temperature-controlled workspace and proper lighting.
Surface Preparation: Where Most Fail
Prep is 80% of the job. For Cerakote, surface preparation involves multiple critical steps:
- Wash with pH-neutral soap like The Super Soaper.
- Decontaminate with a clay bar or clay mitt to remove bonded particles.
- Polish with Picture Perfect Polish to remove oxidation and swirl marks.
- Wipe with an isopropyl alcohol-based cleaner to ensure a perfectly clean surface.
If you skip or rush these steps, Cerakote will not bond correctly — and the coating may streak, high-spot, or fail prematurely. The Gloss Boss is far more forgiving during prep; while it still benefits from polish prep, it can bond to clean, unoxidized paint more easily.
Environmental Requirements
Cerakote Professional recommends application between 65°F and 80°F with under 50% humidity. The coating’s flash time varies by temperature — if it flashes too quickly, you risk streaks; too slowly, and you might leave haze behind. It’s best to work in a closed garage or controlled environment.
The Gloss Boss can be applied in wider temperature ranges (55°F–95°F) and higher humidity, giving it more flexibility for home users or mobile detailers.
Application Process Step-by-Step
Here’s what applying Cerakote Professional looks like in practice:
| Step | Cerakote Professional | The Gloss Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Prep | Requires full correction & IPA wipe | Light prep sufficient; polish optional |
| Flash Time | 30–60 seconds, varies with temp | 1–2 minutes, consistent flash |
| Buff-Off Window | Narrow; must wipe precisely on time | Flexible; streak-free removal |
| Cure Time Before Water Contact | 24 hours minimum | 4–6 hours |
| Ideal Workspace | Climate-controlled bay | Garage, driveway, or bay |
Want a Simpler Ceramic Coating Process?
The Gloss Boss gives you professional-grade protection without the stress — no temperature control, no complicated timing, no streaks.
Buy on Jimbo’s Detailing Buy on AmazonCommon Mistakes During Cerakote Application
- → Applying too thick of a layer — leads to streaks and high spots.
- → Working in direct sunlight — reduces working time dramatically.
- → Not leveling evenly — creates uneven shine or blotchy finish.
- → Buffing too early — removes too much product before it bonds.
- → Washing too soon — water contact before full cure can ruin the coating.
The Gloss Boss was engineered to eliminate these pain points — its slower flash and wider buff window allow for stress-free application even for first-time users.
Maintenance After Application
Once applied, Cerakote Professional requires a 24-hour cure period before water contact and up to 5 days for full chemical resistance. The Gloss Boss reaches initial cure in 4–6 hours, making it usable the same day.
To maintain either coating, we recommend:
- → Washing with The Super Soaper every 2 weeks
- → Using Tough As Shell every 2–3 months as a booster
- → Drying with a Massive Drying Towel to avoid water spots
Verdict: Which Application Wins?
Cerakote Professional delivers solid performance but demands strict conditions and timing. Even experienced detailers find it less forgiving. The Gloss Boss, on the other hand, gives equal or better results with simpler steps and less risk of streaking or failure.
Apply Like a Pro — Without the Stress
The Gloss Boss makes professional-grade ceramic protection easy for anyone. No overcomplication — just clean, apply, and buff for mirror-like results.
Shop The Gloss Boss Buy on AmazonRelated Reading
- Cerakote vs The Gloss Boss — Which Offers Longer Lasting Protection?
- Cerakote Professional Ceramic Paint Coating: 500 Wash Test Explained
- The Gloss Boss vs Cerakote – Real-World Gloss & Slickness Comparison
- Maintenance Routine for The Gloss Boss – Get Maximum Life
FAQs
Is Cerakote Professional easy to apply?
Not for beginners. It requires precision, timing, and a controlled environment. The Gloss Boss is much easier for home users.
How long does Cerakote take to cure?
At least 24 hours before water exposure and up to 5 days for full cure.
Can you apply Cerakote outdoors?
Not recommended — humidity, dust, and temperature fluctuations can ruin the finish. The Gloss Boss can be applied in open garages or shaded driveways.
Does The Gloss Boss need multiple coats?
No — one coat is enough for full coverage, but you can layer for extra gloss if desired.
What’s the best coating for first-time users?
The Gloss Boss — it’s designed to be forgiving, streak-free, and long-lasting even for beginners.
