Last updated: September 24, 2026
Short answer: A paint sealant is short-term protection. A ceramic coating is multi-year protection that makes your car much easier to keep clean. Paint protection film (PPF) is a clear physical film that guards high-impact areas like the hood and front bumper against rock chips. At Unicorn Details in McHenry, IL, a sealant comes with every Reset Detail (from $325), ceramic coatings run $895 to $1,595, and XPEL PPF is quoted by year, make, and model.
Side-by-side comparison
| Option | What it is | How long it lasts | Price at Unicorn Details | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paint sealant | A synthetic protective layer applied after a hand wash and full decontamination | Months, not years | Included with every Reset Detail (from $325) | Gloss and protection between regular details |
| Ceramic coating | A hard, chemically bonded layer on paint, glass, and wheel faces | 1, 3, or 5 years, warrantied and reported to CARFAX | $895–$1,595 depending on length and vehicle size | Owners keeping the car for years who want easier washing |
| XPEL paint protection film | A clear urethane film applied to the paint | Backed by XPEL’s manufacturer warranty | Quoted by year, make, and model | Guarding the front end against rock chips |
What does a paint sealant do?
A paint sealant adds gloss and a short-term protective layer to your paint. Unicorn Details applies a sealant as part of every Reset Detail, after a hand wash and full paint decontamination. It is a good baseline, but it wears off in months, not years.
What does a ceramic coating do?
A ceramic coating bonds to your paint and makes it easier to clean. Water beads and sheets off. Road salt, grime, and bug residue release faster during a wash. The finish holds its gloss longer.
A ceramic coating does not prevent scratches or rock chips. For chip protection, you need PPF.
Every Unicorn Details coating package covers paint, glass, and wheel faces. Glass and wheels always get a 2-year coating, whichever paint length you choose. Every package includes complimentary detail spray for the life of the coating.
How much does ceramic coating cost in McHenry County?
- 1-Year Protection: $895 cars and crossovers, $995 trucks and SUVs
- 3-Year Protection (most booked): $1,095 cars and crossovers, $1,195 trucks and SUVs
- 5-Year Protection: $1,395 cars and crossovers, $1,595 trucks and SUVs
- Motorcycle coating: $299 (1-year) or $399 (3-year)
- Interior ceramic coating (2-year): $399 sedans and crossovers, $499 SUVs
Pick the length that matches how long you plan to keep the car. See full ceramic coating packages.
What does paint protection film (PPF) do?
PPF is a clear film that takes the hit from rocks and road debris so your paint does not. Unicorn Details installs XPEL Ultimate (gloss) or XPEL Stealth (satin/matte). The Full Front package covers the full hood, full front bumper, front fenders, and mirror backs. Headlights can be added for an additional cost. See PPF packages.
Should I get ceramic coating or PPF?
Choose ceramic coating if your goal is easier upkeep and lasting gloss. Choose PPF if your goal is stopping rock chips on the front end. Many owners do both: PPF on the front end and a ceramic coating over the whole car.
Who does the work?
Joe Davison, owner of Unicorn Details McHenry, has applied more than 600 ceramic coatings since 2015. He is IDA Certified (CD-SV), XPEL PPF certified, and a certified installer for IGL, Nano Pro, Owner’s Pride, Angel Wax, and Optimum Polymer Technologies coatings. Unicorn Details holds more than 400 five-star Google reviews.
Where is Unicorn Details?
3980 W. Albany Street, Unit 2, McHenry, IL 60050. We serve McHenry and McHenry County, including Crystal Lake, Woodstock, Algonquin, Cary, Lake in the Hills, and Huntley. Call or text 815-362-0974 or book online.