NZ’s climate is beautiful — and brutal on paint. High UV, sea air, rural dust, rain, road film and bird-etching challenge any finish. That’s why long-term protection is about more than shine; it’s chemistry, heat resistance and easy maintenance. At Mat’s Detailing, we install Fireball Ceramic and Graphene coatings — two of the most advanced coating technologies available — to protect cars, marine vessels, RVs and motorbikes throughout Hamilton and the wider Waikato.
What a coating actually does
A ceramic/graphene coating chemically bonds to paint (or gelcoat, PPF (paint protection film) and wheels), forming a dense, cross-linked layer that’s far more durable than waxes or sealants. The surface becomes slick and hydrophobic: water sheets and beads, dirt sticks less, and wash marring is greatly reduced. UV blockers and chemical resistance keep your finish clearer, longer.
Ceramic vs Graphene: the simple breakdown
Ceramic (SiO2-rich): Proven, glossy, hard-wearing. Excellent chemical resistance, deep gloss and slick hydrophobics.
Graphene-infused ceramic: Builds on ceramic with enhanced heat dispersion and anti-water-spot behaviour. Particularly useful on darker colours and vehicles exposed to intense heat or long highway runs.
Both are outstanding; the right choice depends on your usage, colour and storage.
Fireball systems we trust
Fireball’s multi-layer systems provide tailored durability and performance tiers — from daily drivers to show cars and marine applications. We’ll advise on single-layer vs multi-layer stacks, top-coat options and where a wheel/trim/glass add-on makes sense.
Prep makes (or breaks) a coating
Coatings don’t hide defects; they lock in whatever is underneath. We decontaminate, correct swirls and refine the finish before install. Proper prep ensures strong bonding, maximises durability and creates that “liquid” gloss we all love.
Which is right for you?
Daily driver, garaged: Ceramic is superb value and performance.
Black/dark colours, outdoor parking: Graphene’s heat management and spot resistance offer an edge.
Touring and towing (RVs/boats): Graphene or higher-tier ceramic for robust chemical/UV resilience.
Motorbikes: Both work brilliantly; we tailor to tanks, fairings and metals.
Can coatings go on PPF, wheels and trim?
Yes. Coating PPF improves cleanliness and UV stability without affecting self-healing. Wheel and caliper coatings reduce brake-dust adhesion. Trim coatings restore richness and slow fading.
Maintenance that keeps the warranty happy
pH-neutral wash, premium wash pad, two-bucket method
Avoid harsh degreasers and automatic brushes
Dry with quality microfibre, not chamois
Quarterly decon wash; apply topper where relevant
Annual inspection or a set maintenance plan
Myths vs realities
“Coatings stop stone chips.” No — they’re not impact films. Use PPF for chip-prone areas.
“Graphene is completely different.” It’s ceramic coating technology enhanced with graphene content; think evolution, not a different universe.
“I’ll never need to wash.” You’ll still wash — it just becomes faster, safer and less frequent.
FAQs
How long will it last?
With proper care, multi-year protection. We’ll recommend the right Fireball tier for your use.
Can you coat matte paint or PPF?
Yes — we use matte-safe coatings and techniques that preserve the finish.
What about water spots?
Graphene helps resist spotting, but prevention (safe wash/dry) is key. We can de-spot safely if they happen.
Not sure which coating tier fits your life? Drop in to 2/142 Riverlea Road or book our mobile assessment across Waikato. We’ll inspect your paint and recommend a coating package that suits how you actually use your vehicle.
