Like most car owners, you take pride in keeping your vehicle in top condition. From regular washings to waxing and polishing, you do everything you can to keep it looking its best. But even with all your efforts, some things like rock chips and insect marks can’t be avoided. And if you live in a particularly harsh climate, then snow and ice can also take their toll on your car’s paint job.
What is Paint Protection Film?
A Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a thin invisible protection film applied to the exterior of a car’s paint job to protect it from chips, scratches and other damage. It is made from durable polyurethane material resistant to fading, yellowing, and staining.
The film is nearly invisible and does not alter the car’s appearance. PPF is often used in front of cars, which can help protect the paint from rocks and other debris the tires can throw up.
The film is also commonly used on side mirrors, and door handles, which are susceptible to scratches from shopping carts and car doors.
In addition, a durable paint protection film can be used on the hood, trunk, and even the roof of a car. And unlike wax or polish, PPF does not need to be reapplied frequently – once it is installed, it will last for years.
A Brief PPF History Lesson
Like many other consumer products, paint protection films were first developed and used by the military. During the Vietnam War, flying debris and debris often damaged helicopter propeller blades and other sensitive parts of military vehicles. To help protect these moving parts, the U.S. military asked 3M to find a solution that would be invisible and lightweight.
The result was a clear polyurethane film that could be applied to surfaces without affecting their appearance or adding significant weight. This film quickly became known as “helicopter tape” due to its widespread use of helicopter blades.
While helicopter tape was originally developed for military applications, it wasn’t long before enterprising individuals began to see its potential for civilian use. In the early 2000s, several companies began offering durable surface protection film for cars and other vehicles. These films were marketed to protect vehicle paint from nicks, scratches, and other damage that can occur during normal driving.
Paint protection films quickly gained popularity, and today they are one of the most popular aftermarket car products. A paint protection film is an excellent option if you’re looking for a way to protect your vehicle’s paint job.
The advantages of replaceable film over rotor blade replacements and repairs were immediately apparent, and its adoption was uncharacteristically rapid for the U.S. military. As a result, there are still people in the business who refer to PPF as “helicopter tape,” even though this phrase is becoming less popular as automobile applications have taken precedence.
A PPF Adoption by the Automotive Sector
The automotive industry has begun to adopt paint protection film (PPF) in recent years, and for a good reason. PPF offers many benefits that can help keep cars looking their best inside and out.
Originally developed for use by the military, PPF is a clear, tough film applied to vulnerable areas of a car’s surface, such as the hood, fenders, and mirrors. The first PPF films were thick and less compliant, but modern films are much thinner and more flexible. The thinness and flexibility of the film allow it to conform to the contours of a car’s surface, making it nearly invisible. The clear film also does not turn yellow or change colour over time. The durability and clarity of PPF make it an ideal solution for protecting automotive surfaces.
Many car owners are now choosing to apply PPF to their vehicles, and the automotive sector is taking notice. More and more car manufacturers are offering PPF as an optional extra on new cars, and many dealerships are now offering it as an aftermarket product. With its many benefits, it’s easy to see why PPF is becoming increasingly popular within the automotive industry.
Today’s Paint Protection Films
Today’s paint protection films are optically clear and highly conformable, making them an ideal way to protect your vehicle’s paint job. They are available in various thicknesses and colours, and offer a self-healing top coat that can reform itself after being scuffed or scratched.
Some manufacturers’ products also have hydrophobic properties similar to ceramic paint coatings. Modern applications require a solution or gel to prevent the film from sticking to the painted panel.
Take Note:
The top layer of the PPF is a polymer that helps the material keep its natural shape after it has been stretched or applied to something like a painted or clear-coated surface. This allows the PPF to “self-heal” when light scratches occur, which prevents any risk of swirl marks.
Types of Paint Protection Film: Which One is Right for You?
Although 3M was the first company to create paint protection film (PPF) and refine it for use on cars, there are now several other manufacturers who offer PPF. A few of these companies are STEK, Suntek and Llumar-both subsidiaries of Eastman Chemical Company and XPEL, the official protective film partner of Team Penske.
A few nicknames for these defence products include:
- Clear Bra
- Car Protection Film
- Clear Mask
- Clear Wrap
- Invisible Shield
PPF vs Vinyl
There is a lot of confusion about the differences between PPF and vinyl, so here we will look at all the nuances that make each clingy product unique.
Both PPF and vinyl are made from polyurethane, but vinyl is thinner and has a higher level of U.V. protection. That makes it ideal for protecting your car’s paint from the sun’s harmful rays.
PPF is thicker and more durable, making it better suited for protecting your car from scratches, chips, and other abrasions. It’s also more flexible and can conform to curved surfaces like bumper guards and side mirrors.
If you’re looking for the best possible protection for your car, PPF is a clear choice. But vinyl is a great option if you’re on a budget or looking for unique colour .
PPF is made from clear polyurethane and is much thicker than vinyl. This makes it harder to work with. The benefits of buying it in either a clear or matte shade are also specific to PPF, as is its capacity to provide excellent surface protection and “self-healing properties,” which vinyl has to a limited extent.
A vinyl wrap offers minimal protection from the elements and wear and tear, but it is mainly installed for good looks or marketing purposes. Trucks transporting goods are like billboards on wheels, so companies often take advantage of this by getting them professionally wrapped.
In contrast, a PPF (paint protection film) is a clear shield that protects glossy painted surfaces while still allowing them to shine through.
How to Install Paint Protection Film
Let’s begin by saying that it’s not easy to apply film on a car without proper training as it has aggressive clue which might leave some stretch marks once its placed.
1. Proper wash and decontamination crucial before film application as you need to make sure that surface is perfectly clean. Otherwise all dust and dirt trapped under the film will be very visible once film is dried.
2. Gently lay the film down on top of the wet paint, making sure to keep both sides of the film soaked. This will provide a slippery surface that makes it easy to squeegee out the water. Remove all the backing of the film and adjust it as needed, so it is properly aligned.
3.If you are unhappy with the position, remove it and start again.
4. Continue working the film with the squeegee until all the air bubbles are removed, and the edges are firmly in place.
5.Finally, use a heat gun to slowly warm up the film and guarantee adhesion, particularly on the edges. Your Clear Bra has now been put in place, and your car can be driven as usual.
How Much Does a Paint Protection Film Installation Cost?
The cost of a paint protection film installation will vary depending on the size and scope of the project. For a basic PPF light package, which covers half of the hood, fenders, mirrors, and front bumper, you can expect to pay around $1299. For a more comprehensive PPF platinum package, which covers the entire vehicle, you can expect to pay around $5500. The price of a paint protection film installation can be a significant investment. Still, it is important to consider the film’s long-term benefits in protecting your vehicle’s paint job. In addition, the film is virtually invisible once installed, so it will not affect the appearance of your vehicle. Ultimately, whether or not to install an automotive paint protection film should be based on your individual needs and preferences.
The Cost of Paint Protection Film
1. What is the condition of your vehicle?
2. How much coverage do you want?
3. What’s the difficulty rating of your vehicle?
4. Do you want additional protection services?
How Long Does Paint Protection Film Last?
When installing protection film (PPF), many variables will impact how long it will last. A professionally installed PPF should last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. However, some of the more common factors that impact a PPF’s longevity are:
Bad Surface Prep: If the surface isn’t properly prepared before the PPF is applied, it will not adhere correctly and will start to peel off much sooner.
Poor Application: This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions during installation, the PPF will likely fail prematurely.
Environmental Factors: Things like extreme heat, cold, U.V. rays, and even general wear and tear can all impact the lifespan of your PPF.
So, if you want your paint protection film to last as long as possible, make sure you get it installed by a professional and take care of it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pros and Cons of Paint Protection Film
Now that we’ve answered some of the most common questions about the protective film, it’s time to look at the pros and cons so you can decide if it’s right for you.
PPF Pros
- Unmatched protection against rock chips and scratches
- Paint swirls are prevented.
- Self-healing properties that are similar to Deadpool
- When properly maintained, can last up to 10 years.
PPF Cons
- Can reduce the shine of a vehicle’s paint after a couple years without proper maintenance.
- Although it isn’t always hydrophobic, many professional PPF installers advocate adding a ceramic coating over a fresh layer of PPF for unrivalled paint protection.
- Over time, lower-quality PPF alternatives and counterfeits will discolour and acquire a yellowish colour.
- It will need to be removed and replaced if it is damaged.
- This is not an effective DIY solution.
- It’s been shown to damage paint if left for too long and not properly maintained.
- The most costly contemporary paint protection solution on the market
How to Get the Most Out of a Paint Protection Film
Combining a high-grade PPF with a high-quality ceramic coating may avoid most of the disadvantages described above. This is why many performance car owners will only install a PPF on the front sides of their cars (where rock chips and acidic bug guts are most) and then utilize a 9H-rated ceramic coating over it and other parts of the vehicle.
FAQs
What is the most important factor in choosing a PPF installer?
When choosing a PPF installer, a few key factors must be kept in mind.
First, it’s important to ensure the company has experience installing PPF. Unlike other vinyl wraps, this material requires a trained hand to apply it correctly.
Second, you’ll want to choose an installer who uses high-quality materials. Not all PPF is created equal; lower-quality films can turn yellow and degrade over time.
Finally, get an estimate from the installer before you commit to anything. Installing PPF is not cheap, but it’s worth the investment if you want to protect your car’s paint job for years.
Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be sure to find the right PPF installer for your needs.
What type of warranties is available with PPF products?
Every PPF product we install comes with a warranty from the manufacturer. This means that if any defects occur in the material, we will replace it free of charge. In addition, every PPF installation comes with a warranty from Gleamworks Detailing. This covers any defects in workmanship that may occur during the installation process.
You can be confident that your PPF investment is well protected. In addition, many of our installers offer warranties for their work. This provides an additional level of protection for your investment.
When you choose Gleamworks Detailing for your PPF needs, you can be confident that you are getting the best care for your vehicle.
Are certain PPF products better than others?
When it comes to PPF products, there are many options on the market. But not all products are created equal.
STEK and XPEL is one of the leading brands regarding PPF products, and for a good reason. This PPF is made from high-quality materials that provide superior protection against the elements. The clear coating also helps to deflect U.V. rays, keeping your paint looking newer for longer.
In addition, they offers a wide range of products to choose from, so you can find the perfect solution for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple bumper guard or full body coverage, premium brands has you covered.
Are there any alternatives to using PPF?
When protecting your car from the elements, a few options are available. The most common is probably paint protection film (PPF), which is a clear vinyl film that is applied to the surface of your car. PPF is virtually invisible and helps to protect the paint from chips, scratches, and staining.
However, PPF is not the only option for protecting car paint. Ceramic coatings are alternative products that can also help keep the paint looking new.
Teflon coatings are often used on kitchen cookware and message boards because of their stain-resistant properties. Teflon can also be applied to car paint to help repel water, dirt, and oil.
Ceramic coatings are another option for protecting car paint. Ceramic coatings form a hard, transparent layer that helps to resist scratches and fading. In addition, ceramic coatings can reflect U.V. rays, which can help to prevent paint from fading or chalking.
Several options are available for protecting car paint, but PPF remains the gold standard. PPF is virtually invisible and provides superior protection against chips, scratches, and staining. However, if you are looking for an alternative more budget option to PPF, ceramic coating may be the right choice.