How Long Does Ceramic Coating Last on a Fiberglass Travel Trailer?

By CGI Detailing – Professional Ceramic Coatings

If you’re considering ceramic coating for your fiberglass travel trailer, you’re probably wondering how long it really lasts. With car coatings claiming lifespans of up to five years, it's fair to ask—what can you expect for your Casita, Oliver, Scamp, or Escape?

At CGI Detailing, we specialize in protecting fiberglass trailers with coatings specifically designed for gelcoat surfaces, and we want to help you understand what durability truly looks like when it’s done right.

How Long Does It Really Last?

Most high-quality ceramic coatings on fiberglass trailers last up to 2 years with proper prep and care. That’s assuming:

• The coating is designed for gelcoat

• It’s professionally applied

• The surface is properly maintained

At CGI Detailing, we use Glidecoat ALPHA, a graphene-reinforced marine-grade ceramic coating formulated specifically for gelcoat. It delivers a realistic 2-year lifespan, even in the harsh outdoor conditions typical of RV life.

This shows the percent loss of gloss over time.

What Affects Ceramic Coating Durability?

Several factors influence how long your coating will last:

• Surface Type: Gelcoat is more porous than automotive clear coat, so proper bonding is critical.

• Application Quality: Prep is everything—oxidation, haze, or contamination will shorten the lifespan.

• Exposure Conditions: UV rays, moisture, and tree cover all impact longevity. Outdoor storage shortens coating life without proper protection.

• Maintenance: Regular washing with pH-neutral soap and avoiding harsh chemicals will help preserve the coating.

🧪 Gelcoat vs Clear Coat: Why Surface Type Matters

One of the most common questions we get is:“Why do ceramic coatings last longer on cars than on trailers?”

The answer lies in the surface.

Cars have a smooth, dense automotive clear coat, which bonds well with coatings that contain a lower percentage of active ingredients. These coatings typically last 3 to 5 years on vehicles.

Fiberglass trailers, however, are finished in gelcoat—a thicker, softer, and more porous material. It requires a different formula to properly bond, seal, and protect.

That’s why we use Glidecoat ALPHA, a coating specifically engineered with more solids and

gelcoat-specific chemistry to:

• Fill micro-pores in the surface

• Resist oxidation and UV degradation

• Maintain strong adhesion even with expansion and flexing

If you used a car coating on gelcoat, you might see failure within 6–12 months. Using the right product makes all the difference.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Ceramic Coating

To make sure your ceramic coating lasts its full lifespan, follow these best practices:

1. Use the Right Wash Soap: Avoid dish soap or strong degreasers. Use a pH-neutral car wash shampoo, or a ceramic infused car wash shampoo with no added cleaners. Our recommendation CGI Detailing Polymer Infused Soap

2. Wash Regularly: Bugs, bird droppings, and sap should be removed quickly to avoid surface damage.

3. Avoid Abrasives: No rough sponges or polishing after coating—stick to a soft microfiber wash mitt and foam.

4. Inspect the Surface: If you see a decrease in water beading use CGI Detailing's Ceramic Shield. This will boost the ceramic coating bringing back the water beading and will also add a sacrificial layer of coating to the surface ensuring you're the longevity of the coating.

Need a deeper breakdown of trailer maintenance? Check out our post: The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining a Fiberglass Travel Trailer

Why We Use Glidecoat ALPHA

Glidecoat ALPHA is one of the few ceramic coatings on the market designed specifically for gelcoat and marine environments. It features:

• Graphene reinforcement for longer UV resistance

• High solid content for superior durability

• Up to 2 years of real-world protection

• Ultra-slick surface and deep gloss

• Professional-only application for maximum performance

This ceramic coating was specifically designed for the marine industry making it the perfect choice for protecting your fiberglass travel trailer.

Ready for Long-Term Protection That Works?

A professionally applied, gelcoat-specific ceramic coating is one of the best ways to protect your travel trailer’s finish. While it may not last five years like a car coating, the 2-year lifespan of Glidecoat ALPHA—when applied and maintained properly—is rock solid and well worth the investment.

📞 Call us or book online today to protect your trailer with ceramic coating made for fiberglass.