What Is PPF for Cars: Is It Worth Getting Paint Protection Film?

What Is PPF for Cars?

Paint protection film or clear bra is a thin wrap or layer of material with self-healing properties. The liquid polymer or thermoplastic urethane substance protects your car exterior. It keeps it from getting scratches, dents, and rock chips.

The top PPF layer comprises an elastomeric polymer substance. The substance helps it maintain a natural shape as it stretches over your car's paint or clear coat. That way, it provides PPF with self-healing properties that eliminate the risk of light scratches and swirl marks.

Types of Paint Protection Films

As you shop around, you may encounter other nicknames that people use due to the different manufacturers of the product. These include; a clear bra, clear wrap, a clear mask, an invisible shield, or car protection film. All these refer to paint protection films.

It is also vital to note the difference between a vinyl wrap and PPF. Vinyl wrap is a thick substance that gives additional coverage to your car's exterior. However, it is not transparent and has less self-healing properties than PPF. PPF offers superior protection, although it is more lightweight than vinyl wraps. It also allows your glossy paint to shine safely.

Is Paint Protection Film Worth It?

The paint protection film is safe to use on old and new cars. Many car owners wonder about this. For those who do not know, PPF has the unique property of bonding solidly to the substrate. It does this through a multi-stage process of installing PPF.

Some inferior-quality protective films and vinyl wraps may have cheap adhesives. These become stocky when water penetrates the top coat. Therefore, you need to choose quality car paint protection coating that will keep your vehicle's paint job safe.

PPF Installation

PPF installation is possible on cars with different paint finishes. It is even possible on those with a matte finish and does not alter the color. However, it enhances the beauty of the bodywork. Make sure you do your homework before any installation. Get to know which are the best paint protection film qualities. These will give you value for your money.

It is also highly recommended that you get a paint correction and deal with paint damage before you install PPF. Find a PPF installer who has the skills to do this. Otherwise, others may tell you that there is no need.

However, PPF installations do not hide all defects, especially not those needing paint correction. Applying PPF over a car with scratches or swirls will not have a glossy finish. Therefore, always ensure you apply paint protection film after paint correction.

What Does Paint Correction Involve?

The primary steps in paint correction are:

• Removing debris and decontamination of the surface.
• Leveling or wet sanding.
• Waxing and polishing.
• Resealing.

You will have to start by decontaminating the surface of debris and dust. Do this by washing and drying the vehicle. You can then level, wax, polish the painted surface, and apply paint sealant. It restores the marred or faded coat. That way, dirt and grime will not mess up the protective film.

Care For Your Car Paint Protection Film

Once you install PPF, ensure you keep it clean by washing and occasionally applying car wax. Apply the wax after the final rinse and use a microfiber towel to avoid scratches and PPF damage. Another method you can use to enhance your PPF is using a ceramic coating.

Using Ceramic Coating as a Protective Film

Although there are similarities between PPF and ceramic coating, the latter offers a different level of protection. Ceramic coatings can be typically installed as a protective coating on your old or new vehicle. It protects your entire car from UV exposure, minor scratches, and bug splatter. However, a ceramic coat can also act as additional protection to your paint protection film. It will also make it easy to clean vehicle surfaces.

PPF application involves using a thin layer of film over the entire vehicle. Ceramic coating is the application of a liquid product or nano-ceramic coating. However, after you apply the PPF, you can add a ceramic coating to the painted surface. Ceramic coating also adds gloss, unlike PPF, which can look fuzzy or blurry to the naked eye.

Advantages of Car Paint Protection Coating (PPF)

There are numerous advantages of PPF. They include:

• Preventing damage from acid rain, water spots, mineral deposits, and scratches.
• Most have self-healing properties. Therefore, when minor scratches occur, they will heal over time.
• It prevents fading by acting as a barrier between UV rays and your car's original paint.
• It is hydrophobic. Mud and water will slide right off. Therefore, you have fewer visits to the car wash.

Looking To Apply PPF On Your Car?

The Detail Doc is ready to take care of your vehicle. We apply film with great skill and expertise, improving the look and value of your car. We provide quality services for your brand-new car. Therefore, you have nothing to worry about. We help you preserve your original paint through the best paint protection services.

We offer paint correction, paint protection, and ceramic coating. We also have window tinting and vehicle detailing. More than anything, we aim to touch the lives of our clients through our services, giving them pride in their rides. For more information on paint protection film, contact The Detail Doc at our office in Bay City, Michigan. You can also call (989) 244-0505 to book an appointment today.