Paint Protection Film. What is it, and is it really worth it?

Paint Protection Film: What is it, what are the benefits, and is it worth it?

One of the best forms of defense against damage that we offer here at Exclusive Auto Detailing is installing Paint Protection Film (PPF), which acts as a barrier against scratches and harm. Does PPF really work, though? We thought we would take a closer look… 

What is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?

Paint Protection Film, or PPF as it is commonly referred to, is a transparent thermoplastic urethane film that is applied to the painted surface of a vehicle. This highly durable and strong film is almost invisible once installed and acts as a barrier against scratches, stone chips, bug splatters, and other environmental hazards ensuring the appearance of the car remains looking as good as new. 

The advanced film on the market, like that we use here at Exclusive Auto Detailing, also features self-healing technology that is able to repair minor scratches. 

What are the benefits of Paint Protection Film?

Installing PPF to the exterior of your car is an investment that can provide a huge range of benefits. Some of the most important include:

    1) Scratch and chip resistance.

The biggest advantage of installing Paint Protection Film is that it offers complete protection against flying road debris. That means those unsightly chips and scratches are a thing of the past, leaving your vehicle’s exterior looking beautiful. 

    2) UV protection.

An area many car owners overlook is just how damaging the sun can be to their paintwork. That is why another benefit of PPF is that it prevents paint fading and oxidation, keeping your car’s original color and finish intact. 

    3) Self-Healing.

As mentioned earlier, high-end quality PPF possesses self-healing properties, meaning minor scratches and swirl marks disappear when exposed to heat. 

    4) Ease of maintenance.

Another hidden advantage of PPF is that it makes cleaning and maintaining your car very easy. Thanks to the hydrophobic barrier it creates, water simply beads up and runs off, reducing those unsightly marks. 

    5) Long-lasting.

Although there is an initial investment when installing Paint Protection Film, its long lifespan makes it incredibly worthwhile, offering over a decade of performance. 

How does PPF compare to Ceramic Coating?

Another common question we get asked here is what's the difference between PPF and Ceramic Coating? So, let's touch base on that too.

While PPF is a strong way to protect your exterior, it is not the only solution. Ceramic Coating, or nano-coating as it is otherwise known, is another great option that we offer at Exclusive Auto Detailing in Poughkeepsie – but how does it compare to PPF? Let's dive into the facts.

Application 

• Paint Protection Film: Needs to be applied by professionals as it requires expertise in order to cut and fit each piece to the vehicle’s contours allowing for a seamless and flawless install. Improper installation of this film can lead to unsightly seams, poor adhesion, lifting edges, or damage to your paint.

• Ceramic Coating: Also needs to be applied by experienced professionals, like our team here at Exclusive Auto Detailing. These professional grade coatings need to be applied to a properly prepared vehicle to give the best result. This will ensure that your car is fully protected and will meet the expected durability the coating is rated for. Improper prep and installation of these coatings can lead to “high spots' ' which look like rainbowing, “ghosting" which looks like streaking or uneven finish which can’t simply be wiped off.

Durability 

• Paint Protection Film: PPF is also known for its exceptional durability, offering a robust barrier against physical damage like scuffs, scratches, and other abrasions. The durability of professional grade films are rated for up to 10 years and come with a respective warranty! Offering you long term peace of mind.

• Ceramic Coating: Also known for being an incredibly strong liquid polymer. High-quality coating and professional installation will ensure your car is protected for up to seven years depending on the ceramic coating manufacturer, layers, and maintenance routine.

Protection level

• Paint Protection Film: PPF provides superior protection against scratches, stone chips, and other damage thanks to its thicker composition of 8-10 mil thick film. Making it a no brainer when it comes to the overall industry leader for vehicle protection.

• Ceramic Coating: Provides a thin layer of protection, enhancing the hydrophobic properties of your vehicle, ensuring dirt and contaminants wash away with ease, eliminating the need for waxing, providing great gloss, and can also help protect with UV damage! However, a common misconception is that ceramic coating will protect against scratches and rock chips, as many companies falsely advertise these products. While some coatings will help with minor swirls and very light scratches, they're not a save all as some depict it to be.

So, Is it Worth It?

Paint Protection Film is a great investment if you're looking to protect your vehicle! For a more cost-effective protective solution Ceramic Coating is another great option! For more in depth information about both services that we personally offer in house, visit the respective service page on our website where you'll find a link for options pricing, availability!

Looking to protect your vehicle?

If you are looking to discover how our Paint Protection Film or Ceramic Coating service can transform and protect the exterior of your vehicle, then our team here at Exclusive Auto Detailing is here to help you. We specialize in the application of both of these products and only utilize the highest quality, most advanced films and coatings available on the market, ensuring a solid defense that keeps your car looking its best. 

Want to find out pricing, availability or more information about the options we offer?

Get in touch with our team today!