Top 11 Common Myths About Paint Protection Film (PPF) busted!
Introduction
PPF (Paint Protection Film) is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle’s paint from damage, but there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it that can cause confusion. In this article, PPF Myths Busted- We’re busting the top PPF myths, from concerns about yellowing and cost to its effectiveness against UV rays and road debris. Whether you’re considering PPF for the first time or want to clear up common misunderstandings, we’ve got the facts you need to make an informed decision and keep your car looking its best. Let’s dive in and separate fact from fiction!
Myth 1: PPF Turns Yellow in the Sun
Our first PPF Myths Busted – This used to be true for older films, but today’s advanced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) based PPF, like our XPEL film, is UV-resistant. It won’t turn yellow, peel, or crack, backed by a 10-year warranty.
Myth 2: Paint Protection Film DOES NOT Protect Against the Sun
False, paint protection film (PPF) offers excellent UV protection, shielding your vehicle’s paint from the harmful effects of the sun. High-quality PPF contains UV inhibitors that prevent fading, discoloration, and oxidation caused by prolonged sun exposure. This helps maintain the glossy finish and vibrant color of your car’s paint over time, making it a great solution for sun-related damage. The owner of Ghost Shield tested this by putting PPF on one headlight while leaving the other unwrapped. The difference is night and day. See it here.
Myth 3: PPF Damages the Paint
Quite the opposite. PPF is designed to protect paint from damage (unlike vinyl wraps). It even has self-healing properties for minor scratches and can be easily removed without harming your vehicle if done by professionals. A common blow dryer will do the trick or simply park in sun.
Myth 4: All PPF is the Same
Quality matters. High-quality PPF, like ours, acts as an invisible armor protecting your car from road debris, UV rays, and more. Don’t settle for low-quality films and always make sure to receive the warranty card from the installer.
Myth 5: PPF Reduces a Car’s Value
PPF actually increases your car’s resale value by preserving its paint. Nobody wants a car with a scratched exterior. It can speak volumes about your pride in ownership and buyers get a warm, fuzzy feeling when they hear you had it wrapped immediately after purchase. It only makes transactions easier.
Myth 6: PPF is Too Expensive
While PPF isn’t cheap, it’s an investment in your car’s longevity. It’s cheaper than repainting your vehicle due to damage from scratches or rock chips (which adversely affects resale value). When you spread the cost of PPF installation over its 10-year warranty period, it quickly proves to be a worthwhile investment. PPF Myths Busted
Myth 7: PPF Can Be Installed Anywhere
PPF isn’t ideal for all surfaces. It’s best for painted areas and doesn’t bond well with glass. However headlight plastic bonds like a charm.
Myth 8: PPF is Bulletproof
PPF is strong but not bulletproof. It deflects most debris, but sharp, forceful impacts can still cause damage. However it saves customers from most damage often. See it in action.
Myth 9: All PPF is 100% Transparent
While most PPF is gloss finish and transparent, many prefer Satin PPF for a transformative matte look. Growing in popularity is Colored PPF which can now be offered for projects traditionally reserved for Vinyl, all while maintaining the tried and true benefits of PPF. In many cases it looks better as there is less noticeable orange peel texture with PPF. It looks like paint, but it ain’t.
Myth 10: Vinyl and PPF are the Same
They are fundamentally different. PPF was designed from the start to protect against road debris while keeping maintenance low; vinyl is for aesthetics only it has been known to damage paint beneath if untreated. PPF is thicker, self-healing, comes with outstanding warranty and bonded differently.
Myth 11: PPF is Difficult to Maintain
PPF maintenance is straightforward. Regular washing and using PPF-specific products, like the Detail Spray mentioned above, keeps it in top shape. Most don’t wash but choose to spray and wipe. With PPF everything comes off quickly since the surface is not porous or uneven. This concludes our PPF Myths busted.
Since we wrote this article a couple more PPF myths to bust, have come to our attention. Below are ones we added.
Bonus Myth 1: PPF Can’t Be Waxed
While you can wax PPF, it’s not recommended as it can build up on edges. Bringing unwanted attention to the margin. Opt for spray wax or detail spray for better maintenance. We are fans of Chemical Guys Wrap Detailer.
Bonus Myth 2: Paint Protection Film cannot be installed on chrome
Yes and no, while it’s not recommended as chrome is not porous so film does not adhere easily. With that said we have done it. However it is up to shops discretion. It’s not advised as PPF is really designed to protect paint but it certainly will protect chrome similarly. So if you war very concerned about scratches on chrome. PPF will be your go to.
Let’s wrap this up.
Don’t let myths about PPF deter you. It’s a smart investment in your car’s appearance and resale value. Choose quality PPF, like ours at Ghost Shield Film, and enjoy a vehicle that looks like new for years to come.
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