Surface Protective Solutions
Graphene Coating FAQ & Troubleshooting
Symptoms, solutions, and maintenance guidance for the SPS Graphene Coating — for owners, detailers, distributors, and authorized installers.
Symptoms & Issues
Loss of hydrophobics is the most common sign that your coating needs a maintenance refresh — not that it has failed. Over time, road grime, mineral deposits, and soap residue can clog the coating surface.
- Step 1: Wash with SPS pH Neutral Soap and a clean wash mitt using the two-bucket method.
- Step 2: Rinse completely and dry with a clean microfiber towel.
- Step 3: Apply SPS Graphene Detailer to refresh the hydrophobic layer.
If water beading doesn't return, the coating may be due for an annual maintenance wash with an SPS Authorized Installer.
Hard water spots are caused by mineral deposits left behind when water evaporates. The SPS Graphene Coating significantly reduces water spot formation, but heavy sprinkler exposure or neglected spots can still etch over time.
- Fresh spots (under 1 week): Use SPS pH Neutral Soap and a damp microfiber. Mist lightly and wipe gently — do not scrub.
- Stubborn spots: A diluted solution of white vinegar (1:10 with distilled water) applied with a soft microfiber can dissolve mineral deposits. Rinse immediately after.
- Etched spots: Contact an SPS Authorized Installer. Light machine polishing may be required.
A dull or hazy appearance is almost always caused by product buildup — not coating degradation. Common culprits include spray waxes from automatic car washes or silicone-based dressings.
- Wash with SPS High Alkaline Soap to strip wax, silicone, or product buildup.
- Rinse, then follow with SPS pH Neutral Soap to neutralize the surface.
- Dry with a clean microfiber and apply SPS Graphene Detailer to restore gloss.
White or chalky residue is almost always caused by wax-based products or incompatible soaps applied to the coating. Wax molecules cannot bond to graphene coatings — they sit on top and dry as a chalky film.
- Use SPS High Alkaline Soap to strip wax residue from the surface.
- Follow with SPS pH Neutral Soap to clean without further stripping.
- Apply SPS Graphene Detailer to refresh the hydrophobic layer.
Going forward, use SPS Graphene Detailer as your maintenance booster instead of any wax product.
Organic contaminants like bird droppings and tree sap are acidic and should be removed as quickly as possible. The SPS Graphene Coating significantly increases your window before damage occurs, but it is not impervious indefinitely.
- Fresh contamination: Mist with water or SPS Graphene Detailer, let dwell 30–60 seconds, then gently wipe with a damp microfiber.
- Dried or baked-on contamination: Use SPS pH Neutral Soap with a clean wash mitt and let the suds dwell before wiping.
- Stubborn tar or sap: Use a dedicated automotive tar remover safe for coated surfaces. Apply to a microfiber, never directly to paint. Rinse and follow with SPS Detailer.
The SPS Graphene Coating provides strong resistance to swirl marks compared to bare paint, but it is not scratch-proof. Swirl marks typically appear from brush car washes, dirty microfiber towels, or dry-wiping the surface.
- For light swirl marks visible only in direct sunlight, apply SPS Graphene Detailer and assess in natural light.
- For deeper swirl marks consistently visible, the vehicle requires paint correction (machine polishing) before the coating's appearance can be fully restored.
Contact an SPS Authorized Installer for a paint correction assessment. Note: polishing removes the coating in that area, so a touch-up coat will be needed after correction.
Maintenance & Washing
The SPS Graphene Coating has a critical early curing window:
- First 24–48 hours: Do not wash or expose to water. Park indoors or in covered parking away from trees and birds.
- First week: Avoid soap or detergent-based washes. If contaminated, rinse with a hose and dry with a clean microfiber only.
- After 7 days: Normal washing with SPS pH Neutral Soap can resume.
Wash as often as needed — but wash thoughtfully. Over-washing with harsh products is more damaging than infrequent washing.
- When you notice visible surface buildup, road film, or reduced water beading, it's time to wash.
- Use SPS pH Neutral Soap with a clean, soft wash mitt and the two-bucket method.
- Dry with clean microfiber towels after every wash — never allow the vehicle to air-dry.
A good rule of thumb: wash every 2–4 weeks during regular driving, more frequently in winter (road salt) or high-pollen seasons.
Touchless (no-brush) car washes are acceptable for coated vehicles when needed:
- Always choose the basic wash package only. Do not add spray wax, sealant, or shine treatments — these are wax-based and will clog your coating.
- Avoid brush or cloth car washes entirely.
- After any automated wash, dry the vehicle with a clean microfiber towel to prevent water spotting.
Yes — this is one of the most effective ways to use SPS Graphene Detailer. After rinsing the soap from your vehicle while the surface is still wet, mist SPS Graphene Detailer onto each panel before drying.
This creates a slip layer between the surface and your drying towel, reducing the risk of light scratches during drying. It also deposits a fresh graphene layer as you dry, refreshing the hydrophobic properties at every wash.
No — wax should not be applied to the SPS Graphene Coating. Wax molecules cannot bond to the coating surface. Instead, they sit on top and dry out, leaving a white, chalky residue that clogs the coating pores, reduces water beading, and dulls the finish.
Use SPS Graphene Detailer as your wax substitute. It bonds with graphene coatings, refreshes hydrophobic properties, and enhances gloss — without any of the negative side effects of wax.
For routine washes after the initial 7-day curing period, use SPS pH Neutral Soap. Its balanced formula encapsulates and lifts dirt without stripping the coating.
For a deep clean to remove heavy buildup, wax residue, or road grime, use SPS High Alkaline Soap. This is a more aggressive degreasing formula — ideal before applying Graphene Detailer or before an annual maintenance inspection.
The SPS Graphene Coating is well-suited for harsh climates including Canadian winters, but increased attention during high-exposure seasons will maximize lifespan.
- Winter / road salt: Rinse the vehicle frequently — especially the undercarriage, wheel arches, and lower panels — even without a full wash. Salt accumulation accelerates coating degradation.
- Spring: Do a full decontamination wash (High Alkaline Soap) and apply SPS Graphene Detailer to refresh after the harsh winter season.
- Summer / UV exposure: Apply SPS Graphene Detailer every 4 months to maintain UV resistance on vehicles parked outdoors.
Application & Prep
Proper surface preparation is the most critical factor in coating performance. Applying over an improperly prepared surface is the most common cause of adhesion issues.
- Wash: Use SPS High Alkaline Soap for a thorough decontamination wash to remove wax, grease, and road film.
- Paint correction (if required): Address swirl marks, scratches, or oxidation with machine polishing before coating. The coating will lock in whatever the paint looks like at application.
- Surface Prep: Apply SPS Surface Prep to every panel using a clean microfiber towel. Do a second pass to confirm full coverage. This step is non-negotiable.
Temperature, humidity, and lighting all significantly affect the application process.
- Temperature: Ideal range is 10–25°C (50–77°F). Avoid applying below 5°C or in direct sunlight and high heat.
- Humidity: Moderate humidity (40–70%) is ideal. High humidity can accelerate flash time unpredictably.
- Lighting: Bright, indirect lighting in an enclosed garage is ideal. Fluorescent or LED shop lights help reveal missed areas and early high spots.
- Contamination: Work in the cleanest environment possible. Dust settling on the coating during application can bond into the surface as it cures.
High spots appear as darker patches or rainbow-colored streaks. They occur when coating residue is not fully leveled before it cures.
- If caught before full cure (within 24 hours): In bright indirect lighting or under an overcast sky, identify affected areas and use a damp microfiber towel to rewet and level the residue, followed by a dry buff. Work one panel at a time.
- If cured (beyond 24 hours): A light machine polishing pass on the affected panel is the only effective remedy, followed by reapplication to that area.
Yes — the SPS Graphene Coating is compatible with PPF (Paint Protection Film) and vinyl wraps, including matte finishes.
- Ensure the PPF or wrap has fully cured before applying the coating (typically 7 days for PPF after installation).
- Clean with SPS pH Neutral Soap and apply SPS Surface Prep to the film or wrap surface before coating.
- The coating bonds to the topcoat of the PPF, adding hydrophobic properties and UV protection to the film itself.
Product Questions
The SPS Graphene Coating is not a ceramic coating with graphene powder added — it is built on a proprietary graphene carrier solution that is fundamentally different from standard SiO2-based ceramic chemistry.
- Graphene platelets dispersed throughout the formula act as a strengthening agent, providing hardness and scratch resistance that standard ceramic cannot match.
- Better water beading: Graphene creates a lower water sliding angle (under 10–15°), meaning water evacuates the surface faster and with less contact.
- Universal surface compatibility: The graphene carrier formula bonds to paint, glass, plastic, vinyl, PPF, and matte finishes.
- Temperature resistance: Graphene dissipates heat more effectively than ceramic, reducing water spot formation on hot paint.
The SPS Graphene Coating is rated for 3–5 years of protection. We rate conservatively — we'd rather overdeliver than overpromise.
- 3 years: Realistic for daily drivers in harsh conditions with minimal maintenance.
- 5 years: Achievable with regular pH neutral soap washes, quarterly SPS Graphene Detailer applications, and annual professional maintenance washes.
The SPS Graphene Detailer applied quarterly is the single most impactful step you can take to extend your coating toward the 5-year mark.
Yes. SPS Graphene Detailer works as a standalone, short-term protection solution for uncoated paint, glass, wheels, vinyl, plastic trim, and PPF — providing up to 4–6 months of graphene protection per application.
This makes it an ideal product for vehicle owners who want to experience the hydrophobic and protective benefits of graphene without committing to a full coating installation — or as a bridge protection layer on a freshly detailed vehicle.
Pro / Installer Guide
SPS offers two tiers of installer partnership:
- SPS Authorized Installer: Installers who have completed SPS product training and are listed in the SPS installer network. Customers can find them via the installer map.
- SPS Certified Installer: The highest tier of SPS partnership, reflecting demonstrated expertise, volume, and quality standards. The recommended choice for the best possible results.
To become an SPS installer or upgrade your status, visit the Partner with SPS page or contact us directly.
The most common root causes for adhesion failures, in order of frequency:
- Incomplete Surface Prep: Polishing oil, silicone, or moisture residue left on the panel. Always do a second pass of SPS Surface Prep on a fresh microfiber before every panel.
- Application temperature out of range: Below 5°C or above 30°C causes inconsistent flash times and prevents proper bonding.
- Application in direct sunlight: Heat accelerates flash dramatically and creates high spots before the coating can be leveled.
- Pre-existing paint issues: Old clear coat delamination, incompatible respray primer, or excessive orange peel.
- Cross-contamination: Silicone-based products used elsewhere in the shop can contaminate applicators and microfibers.
The recommended SPS annual maintenance wash process:
- Step 1 — Decontamination wash: SPS High Alkaline Soap to remove road film, fallout, and product buildup.
- Step 2 — Iron fallout removal (if applicable): pH-neutral iron remover on wheels and lower panels.
- Step 3 — Rinse and dry: Thorough rinse and full microfiber dry.
- Step 4 — Inspection: Inspect in bright lighting for high spots, adhesion issues, or areas of failure that may require touch-up coating.
- Step 5 — Graphene Detailer application: Apply SPS Graphene Detailer to all coated surfaces as a maintenance booster and hydrophobic refresh.
Yes, but the existing coating must be properly addressed first. Applying over an intact competitor coating will not provide proper adhesion — the SPS coating will bond to the existing coating rather than the clear coat.
- If the competitor coating is still intact and glossy: remove via machine polishing before applying SPS Graphene Coating.
- If the competitor coating is heavily degraded or peeling: same process applies — polish to bare clear coat, then Surface Prep and coat as normal.
- SPS Graphene Detailer (not the full coating) can be applied as a maintenance booster over most intact competitor coatings without issue.
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Our team is here to help:
WHY GET MY CAR COATED?
Your vehicle faces numerous challenges daily, from UV rays and environmental pollutants to road debris and water spots. SPS protective coatings are meticulously engineered to address these issues by providing:
Unmatched Durability: Our graphene-based coatings form an ultra-thin, ultra-smooth layer that bonds seamlessly to your vehicle, delivering long-lasting protection.
Hydrophobic Properties: Say goodbye to water spots and residue buildup. Our coatings repel water and other contaminants, keeping your vehicle cleaner for longer.
UV Protection: Shield your vehicle's surface from harmful UV rays, preventing discoloration and fading.
Enhanced Aesthetics: Enjoy a deeper color depth and a stunning shine that makes your vehicle stand out.
Ease of Maintenance: With our protective coatings, maintaining your vehicle's pristine condition becomes effortless.
WHY DO I NEED TO PROTECT MY PAINT?
Protecting your vehicle is about more than just maintaining its shine—it's about preserving its value, enhancing its appearance, and ensuring its longevity. At Surface Protective Solutions (SPS), we understand the vital role that high-quality coatings play in keeping your vehicle in pristine condition.
Longevity and Protection
Vehicles are constantly exposed to harsh environmental elements that can cause rust, corrosion, and degradation over time. Having a vehicle coating to protect against said conditions significantly extends the life of your vehicle. The SPS Graphene Coating offers up to five years of protection, ensuring your vehicle stays looking new longer and remains free from rust and corrosion.
Superior Resistance to Swirl Marks and Scratches
Every car enthusiast dreads the sight of swirl marks and minor scratches that mar their vehicle's paint. Our graphene coating forms an ultra-thin, ultra-smooth layer that enhances your car's resistance to these common imperfections. This means your vehicle retains its flawless finish, even with regular use and cleaning.
Preserving Vehicle Value
A poor-quality paint job may look good initially, but it will fade, crack, and scratch over time, diminishing your vehicle's aesthetic and resale value.
in contrast, a car with its original manufacturer's paint in good condition is incredibly valuable in the resale market. Graphene Coating your vehicle will help keep paint vibrant and intact, preserving its factory finish and maximizing its resale potential.
CERAMIC VS GRAPHENE
Ceramic Coatings revolutionized the detailing and car protection industry, but like all technologies, eventually, something bigger and better will come along, and that something is Graphene.
- Graphene provides more ‘bang for your buck’ than Ceramic.
- Graphene can cost slightly more, but lasts longer and is more durable.
- Graphene creates better water-beading results and fewer water spots.
- You can apply Graphene protection to all of your surfaces
GRAPHENE COATING AFTERCARE
Keep your Graphene coating looking as amazing as the day it was installed.
HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN GRAPHENE COATINGS?
With a little bit of maintenance, you can keep your coating operating at optimum efficiency for years to come! SPS Graphene is an incredibly strong and resilient coating that only requires a little bit of maintenance to prolong its protection, hydrophobicity, color depth, and reflective shine. To get the most out of your coating, here are a few key maintenance tips and recommendations to ensure your vehicle looks top-notch for years to come:
THE FIRST 24-48 HOURS
The first day or so after the coating is applied is critical to ensuring it can harden properly. During this window, avoid washing your vehicle (you likely won’t need to) and steer clear of parking below trees or anywhere that’s prone to bird droppings, tree sap, or another contaminant. Covered parking, like a garage or underground parking, would be ideal during this stage of the process.
THE FIRST WEEK
During the first week, your SPS Graphene coating is going through its natural curing process. While your coating is curing, the use of detergents or soaps is not recommended. By using these before your coating has completely cured, you could damage and reduce its effectiveness and life span. If you need to remove any harmful surface contaminants such as bugs, tar, sap, or bird droppings, we recommend using a hose or pressure washer followed by a soft microfiber towel if needed. We always recommend drying the surfaces after to prevent hard water spots.
Adding a reminder to your smartphone or computer one week from your application date is a quick and easy way to prevent damaging your freshly coated vehicle.
HOW TO WASH A CAR WITH A GRAPHENE COATING
Wash As Often As You Need To
With Graphene coatings, sometimes less is more. When you start to notice building on the surface, we recommend a simple wash with a mild detergent to prevent excessive build-up from road contaminants.
Think of your coating like glass in your shower. When the glass is clean, the water will run off the surface nicely, but over time as soap builds on the surface, the water will start to “stick”. Once you clean the glass, the water will start to bead off again. Your Graphene coating is no different and will require some maintenance to preserve and prolong the coating.
A Quick, Gentle Wash Is Best
If you’re washing at home, a soft mitt and gentle automotive soap are best, followed by a rinse with a garden hose or pressure washer. A touch-less car wash is a great option too, but only choose the basic package that offers a quick wash. You have already protected your vehicle with the most advanced coating in the industry, so there is no need to pay extra for a spray-on wax. Spray on waxes can clog up the pores of the coatings limiting the hydrophobic properties and leaving a white powdery residue behind. While Graphene coatings are very strong, it’s still best to avoid anything abrasive that could scratch the surface, such as brushes (especially ones at the local car wash) or clay bars.
Pro Tip: If you’re handwashing your vehicle, use a different bucket and mitts/sponge for the wheels and tires to prevent cross-contamination and dirt from rubbing into your coating.
Lastly, dry your vehicle with a few microfiber cloths to achieve maximum shine and the best results. Using tap water to rinse the soap off can leave mineral deposits behind if it’s left to dry on its own. You shouldn’t need to use excessive pressure, let the cloth absorb the water and then follow up with a second cloth to dry the car completely.
Avoid Brushes, Wax, & Direct Sunlight
Avoid applying wax to your Graphene coating. Waxes tend to dry on top of the surface, resulting in an undesirable white film. Also avoid washing under direct sunlight, as this will prevent streaking and water spotting.
USE GRAPHENE DETAILER
REFRESH THE RESILIENCY
To get the absolute best results from your Graphene coating, we recommend following up your coating with a thorough clean every four months to remove any build-up from everyday driving, and finishing with our Graphene Detailer to refresh the coating.
Our Graphene Detailer is available in two sizes: the bottles are ideal for owners, while the 1 Gallon jugs are a great value for detail shops.
Note: In it’s liquid form, the detailer is best-used in two years. We recommend choosing the amount that best fits your needs.
USE pH NEUTRAL SOAP
MAKE IT LAST
To ensure your coatings' longevity we recommend using washing your vehicle with our pH Neutral Soap.
Our highly concentrated formula gives you the option to use the soap as a rinse-less wash, waterless wash, traditional hand washing soap, or even in a foam cannon.
After diluting the formula accordingly, pH Neutral Soap will create a barrier between the surface while encapsulating dirt to avoid the risk of scratching/damaging the surface of your vehicle.
COAT YOUR VEHICLE
HOW DO I COAT MY VEHICLE?
SPS Certified/Authorized Installers
If improperly installed Graphene Coatings can have visual defects so we recommend having a professional apply your coating! For optimal results we recommend visiting one of our SPS Certified or SPS Authorized Installers. Use our Interactive Map to find the location closest to you!
Self Application
If you're looking to apply the coating yourself, please reference our Youtube Channel for additional information including a step-by-step Graphene Coating application guide.
HOW DO I COAT MY VEHICLE?
SPS Certified/Authorized Installers
If improperly installed Graphene Coatings can have visual defects so we recommend having a professional apply your coating! For optimal results we recommend visiting one of our SPS Certified or SPS Authorized Installers. Use our Interactive Map to find the location closest to you!
Self Application
If you're looking to apply the coating yourself, please reference our Youtube Channel for additional information including a step-by-step Graphene Coating application guide.
YOUR LOCAL GRAPHENE INSTALLER IS THERE TO HELP
For optimal results from your coating, we recommend booking an annual maintenance wash with your local Graphene installer. If you’re having a hard time remembering where your vehicle was coated, use this tool to find an SPS Authorized Installer. They have the tools, expertise, and attention to detail that will keep your coating working at optimum efficiency for years to come. Simply contact the installer and book your vehicle in for an SPS Graphene Maintenance Wash.
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Testimonials
WHAT DETAILERS ARE SAYING!
It's so nice to be able to just throw these into the cart and know that I'm still getting a quality product - just like the coating. Being able to purchase coatings and supplies all in one place is a game changer. Thank you SPS!
"Okay, real talk. The applicators that SPS sells are AWESOME! I've had troubles with other ones at a similar price point either wasting product or marring paint. These things don't mar the paint and being able to use both sides is awesome! No more crusty applicators in the middle of a large application."
"I've been detailing my own vehicles as well as friends cars and doing ceramic coatings for over 10 years. I was shocked at how good the SPS range of detail accessories were when I got them. I'll be ordering the larger packs with my next order of SPS Graphene. Everything these guys do is gold!"
"I burn through microfiber towels like no tomorrow. SPS towels are a quality product at a price that's hard to beat aside from the crappy ones at costco. Will be purchasing again in a bigger pack."
"I can't get over how plush the polishing towel is... My daughter keeps grabbing them and taking them from my shop! I haven't fully tested the other products yet but I will update my review when I have."
