Field Test: Detailer Walkthrough of Cerakote Professional vs The Gloss Boss
Marketing claims are one thing—real-world detailing is another. In this in-depth field test, we installed Cerakote Professional and The Gloss Boss side-by-side on identical vehicles to evaluate actual application, working time, and results. What follows is a raw, unfiltered comparison based on hands-on testing from professional detailers.
Estimated Reading Time: Less than 10 minutes
Introduction: Why Field Testing Matters
Laboratory tests can tell you a lot about chemistry—but only field work reveals how a coating behaves in real-world conditions. Temperature, humidity, lighting, and workflow all affect results. That’s why we tested both coatings side by side under identical conditions to show how Cerakote Professional and The Gloss Boss perform for real installers.
Both were applied on freshly polished panels under 70°F ambient conditions with 55% humidity—ideal but realistic for most professional environments.
1. The Setup
For an accurate comparison, both coatings were applied to matching vehicles (black sedans with single-stage clear). Each received the same prep process:
- → Wash with The Super Soaper
- → Decon with Pure Magic Cleaner
- → Polish using Picture Perfect Polish
Each panel was wiped with IPA before coating. Flash times, slickness, wipe-off, and visual gloss were all recorded at 15-minute intervals.
2. Application Feel and Flash Behavior
Application feel is where the difference became obvious.
- → Cerakote Professional: Slightly grabby during wipe, faster flashing, and minimal leveling time. Required quick action to avoid high spots.
- → The Gloss Boss: Smooth glide, slower flash, and much more forgiving leveling window (around 90 seconds vs Cerakote’s 45).
Detailers noted that The Gloss Boss felt “buttery” during wipe-off and left almost no streaking—even in slightly humid air. Cerakote needed more microfiber swaps and consistent cross-hatching to avoid haze.
3. Visual Finish and Gloss
After full cure (24 hours), gloss readings were taken using a 60° meter:
| Coating | Average Gloss Units (GU) | Visual Impression |
|---|---|---|
| Cerakote Professional | 84 GU | Crisp, glassy, but slightly cool tone |
| The Gloss Boss | 93 GU | Richer, warmer gloss with deeper reflection |
Under sunlight, The Gloss Boss panels had a noticeably “wet look” finish, while Cerakote appeared slightly more sterile or flat.
4. Wipe-Off and User Experience
Detailers in our test group overwhelmingly preferred The Gloss Boss for ease of wipe-off. The working time was easier to manage and resulted in fewer towel changes. Cerakote required more attention to flash timing, and any over-application left visible shadows.
Feedback highlights:
- → “Gloss Boss flashed slower—more control, no panic.”
- → “Cerakote was faster but less predictable; had to chase high spots.”
- → “Gloss Boss surface felt slicker instantly after leveling.”
Try The Gloss Boss in Your Own Shop
Professional installers love The Gloss Boss for its balanced flash time, forgiving wipe-off, and rich, durable finish.
Shop The Gloss Boss Buy on Amazon5. Water Behavior After Curing
Both coatings were exposed to simulated rain and rinse cycles after 48 hours. Water behavior was dramatically different:
- → Cerakote: Strong beading at first, but slower sheeting. Water tended to cling more around edges.
- → The Gloss Boss: Tighter beading (contact angle 110°+) and faster sheeting, meaning less water retention and spotting.
Even after six washes, The Gloss Boss retained noticeably higher hydrophobicity—proof of deeper bonding chemistry.
6. Long-Term Durability and Maintenance Feedback
After 90 days of real-world driving, The Gloss Boss panels still exhibited strong water behavior, slickness, and easy cleanup. Cerakote’s performance had diminished slightly, requiring more frequent topper use to maintain gloss and repellency.
Maintenance with Tough As Shell boosted performance for both, but The Gloss Boss still led in gloss retention and chemical resistance.
7. Professional Feedback Summary
Across all participating installers, feedback averaged as follows:
| Category | Cerakote Professional | The Gloss Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Application | 7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Gloss & Depth | 8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Water Behavior | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Forgiveness & Wipe-Off | 6.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 7.5/10 | 9.7/10 |
When professionals were asked which coating they would prefer to install daily, over 90% selected The Gloss Boss for consistency and user experience.
8. Verdict: The Gloss Boss Wins Real-World Testing
Field testing confirms what lab data suggested: The Gloss Boss outperforms Cerakote Professional in gloss, slickness, and ease of use—while also lasting longer between maintenance cycles. It’s the coating built for both performance and practicality.
Ready to Upgrade Your Shop?
Join hundreds of detailers switching to The Gloss Boss for consistent, professional-grade ceramic coating installs without the stress or learning curve.
Shop The Gloss Boss Buy on AmazonRelated Reading
- Cerakote Professional vs The Gloss Boss — Which Offers Longer Lasting Protection?
- The Gloss Boss Review – After 6 Months: How Does It Perform?
- Maintenance Routine for The Gloss Boss – Get Maximum Life
FAQs
Was the test done on identical cars?
Yes. Both coatings were applied to identical vehicles under identical prep and environment conditions.
How long was the observation period?
Initial data was recorded over 24 hours, with follow-ups at 30, 60, and 90 days.
Which coating was easier to apply?
The Gloss Boss had a slower flash and more forgiving wipe-off, making it easier for both pros and beginners.
Did humidity affect the results?
Cerakote was more sensitive to humidity. The Gloss Boss leveled evenly regardless of minor environmental variations.
Can both coatings be topped with spray sealants?
Yes, but Tough As Shell works particularly well with The Gloss Boss for maintenance.
