Since the paint covers the largest surface area of your car, it is more likely to fade or get damaged over time, making your vehicle appear older than it actually is. This is why protecting the aesthetic appeal of your car with paint protection film is essential.
For many drivers, paint protection film is an unfamiliar method of safeguarding their cars, but it is one of the most effective ways to maintain your vehicle’s finish. Let’s explore what paint protection film is and why it’s a must-have for your vehicle.
WHAT IS PAINT PROTECTION FILM?
Paint protection film (PPF) also referred to as clear bra, clear wrap, invisible shield, or car scratch protective film, is a thin, multi-layer material applied to painted vehicle panels. It provides protection against scrapes, debris, etching, staining, and flying rocks, helping to maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s paint.
Here in California and our neighbouring states of Nevada, Arizona, and Utah, one of the most damaging elements is the harsh UV rays. Another benefit of paint protection film is that it offers UV protection to the car.
PPF is made from a type of plastic called Urethane. Its flexibility and ability to stretch, bend, and conform allow it to fit the contours of your car. For enhanced protection, the top layer of PPF is crafted from an elastomeric material, ensuring it keeps its shape. This feature also allows the PPF to self-heal minor scratches, such as swirl marks, maintaining your vehicle’s flawless appearance.
One of the main reasons paint protection film wasn’t widely used in the past was due to issues with bubbling or yellowing. However, these problems are a thing of the past, thanks to the inclusion of the elastomeric layer in modern films. Now, paint protection films offer benefits that are too good to overlook for anyone who cares about maintaining their car’s appearance.
HOW LONG WILL PAINT PROTECTION FILM LAST?
The primary goal of installing paint protection film (PPF) is to safeguard your vehicle over the long term. When applied by a skilled and well-trained professional, you can expect your PPF to last up to 10 years. For additional peace of mind, ensure the installation company is certified by the product manufacturer. Certification will make you eligible for a PPF warranty from the manufacturer, such as the 10-year warranty offered by Suntek Ultra. However, there are still other factors that can influence the lifespan of PPF, including:
1. How the Vehicle Was Prepared
Surface preparation is one of the most crucial and time-intensive steps in the PPF installation process. This involves removing any contaminants from the paint and smoothing out imperfections. We begin every installation by thoroughly washing and claying the area where the film will be applied. If necessary, we also use an iron remover to make the paint as flawless as possible.
At this stage, there are no shortcuts. Any contaminants left on the surface can significantly reduce the effectiveness and longevity of the PPF. It’s also essential to clean all crevices and panel gaps to ensure optimal protection.
2. The Application
Once the surface is properly prepped and all imperfections are addressed, the PPF must be applied correctly to provide the necessary protection.
The material needs to be placed on the vehicle with precision to ensure proper adhesion and to avoid the formation of bubbles, gaps, or uneven seams. Bubbles often indicate that contaminants were not fully removed or that the installation wasn’t performed correctly. Some bubbles may be tiny and will naturally dissipate over time, this is a normal part of the process.
Additionally, you want an installer who is skilled in adjusting patterns to suit the vehicle’s unique shape. A poorly fitting kit will never look good, no matter how experienced the installer is.
3. Environment Matters
PPF is incredibly durable and resistant to environmental elements like UV rays and sun heat. However, it’s not invincible, so even with the protective layer, it’s important to take some precautions.
Your car will still need regular cleaning (using water, not just a waterless wash). Bird droppings, especially on hot days, can damage the film, leaving marks. Dirt can also become embedded in the clear coat, potentially staining the film if the car is left dirty for extended periods.
Common Question: Should I wipe down my PPF under the sun?
It’s best to avoid wiping down your car when it’s extremely hot or under direct sunlight. This can damage the top coat and impair its ability to self-heal.
Want to learn more about PPF?
It’s Best Left To The Professionals
While it’s possible to install PPF yourself using a kit tailored to your vehicle, it’s always best to leave this delicate task to the professionals. It is a skill that takes years to become great at.
Kits bought online have not been altered to offer the best fit and often do not allow you to be able to wrap edges. You can also end up damaging your car in the process. Not to mention wasting hundreds of dollars in film because it came out with debris, or misaligned, or not properly fitting.
Want to keep your car looking as glossy as the day you bought it? Want to protect it from UV and road debris damage while preserving its resale value with pristine paint?
Reach out to us today to keep your car scratch- and chip-free! We offer paint protection film, ceramic coatings, wheel powder coating, and window tinting services to Ventura County and Los Angeles County!