The Pros and Cons of Installing Paint Protection Film for Cars

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Cropped shot of mechanic applying protective film on headlight. Adhesive automotive polymer coating for car lamp

 

Paint Protection Films (PPF) are no longer a luxury reserved for expensive vehicles. PPF protection for cars has become popular and practical as more car owners place importance on long-term preservation. PPF, a transparent, durable coating that protects your car from rock chips and scratches, is an excellent choice for owners of high-value cars.


Understanding the pros and cons will help you make the best decision, whether you have a daily driver or a luxury vehicle. This blog will explain what PPF is on a vehicle, how it functions, and if it’s right for your car.


What is Paint Protection Film for Cars?


Paint protection film is a durable, flexible, transparent film that’s applied to the outer body of a car. Installing PPF on your vehicle is primarily to protect it from minor damages, such as scratches.


It also protects the paint of your car from damage caused by sunlight. The majority of PPFs are self-healing. Minor scratches can be repaired by using heat or sunlight.


The PPF is made from thermoplastic urethane or polyurethane, materials that are resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and impacts. Some PPFs can even be used to protect the sunroof of your car or panoramic roof. There are different types of PPFs, and they vary in thickness. Thicker films offer greater protection from impact.


Recent advances in PPF car protection film have included a ceramic-infused top layer that offers enhanced hydrophobic and UV resistance. This makes them more durable and easier to clean than older PPF versions.


The Benefits of installing PPF on your car


As the leading installers of paint protection film in Clearwater, Largo, Dunedin, St Pete, we have installed thousands of films on vehicles. Our years of experience have taught us the most important things.


XPEL UltimatePlus is the best product we have found to protect your car’s smooth exterior. It embodies the innovative spirit of the company and its cutting-edge technologies.


Installing high-grade PPF in cars has the following benefits:

1. Paint jobs that are brand new can be protected with this product.


Installing a thermoplastic film on a shiny new car can be a daunting task for many car owners. Your car’s shine will not last if you do not install protection. You can damage your car’s paintwork by:

  • The roadside debris (flying gravel, rocks, etc.) can cause light scratches or chips.
  • Insect splatter, bird droppings, tree sap, etc.
  • Acid rain or chemical spills can cause discoloration.
  • Paint cracks due to extreme heat, fading from harmful UV radiation, etc.


Installing a PPF on your car creates a protective shield that is crystal clear. The Paint Protection Film has a 100% transparent finish and is 8 mils thick, or 0.0008 inch.


2. Choose from a range of finishes


Installing an additional film may be a concern for car owners who do not want to compromise the original finish of their vehicle. Bravo Protection’s XPEL Ultra Plus comes in both matte and glossy finishes. This allows for customizing and matching textures.


Gorilla Wraps and PPF recommend a glossy finish, clear bra PPF to add depth and shine.


You can apply a matte finish to your vehicle if you don’t want it glossy. It will give the car a unique look.


When you install PPF, it doesn’t have to mean that you compromise on the finish.


3. It comes with a top-coat that is hydrophobic


The best PPF is one that has a Hydrophobic Top Coating. The top coating is a wax-like barrier that prevents liquid chemicals and water from damaging the paint on your car.


4. Self-Healing Properties


It may seem like a bold statement, but XPEL Clear Bra film has a topcoat that can repair minor swirls and scratches with heat. You can be as good as brand new with a little work!


5. Customize your coverage


Not all PPFs must cover the whole vehicle. Some car owners opt for partial coverage of high-impact areas such as the hood and side mirrors.

We offer a variety of car PPF packages to suit all budgets.

Call us at 813-380-2650

ppf

 

6. Easy to Install


The installation of PPF is far easier than using other protection methods, such as
ceramic coating and waxing. Bravo’s special software allows us to cut patterns in just 5 minutes. We can also help protect vintage cars that need a custom job.


7. Protect Your Factory Paint For Over A Decade


XPEL Ultimate Plus comes with a 10-year warranty from the manufacturer and a lifetime guarantee on installation. Contrary to low-quality films, which yellow with age and peel off or crack. XPEL protection films are durable with the right care and use.


Cons of installing PPF on your car


There are a few things to consider when applying PPF. The following are the main considerations:


1. The upfront costs are high


It is possible to pay a little more for a high-quality film of paint protection that provides long-lasting protection. It is also important to consider the benefits of long-term use.


Paint protection films that are durable and long-lasting can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on paint chip repairs.


2. The wrong application can affect the look of your car


To ensure that the PPF is applied without air bubbles or swirls on car surfaces, it requires extra care, precision, and attention.


Experts with experience in PPF applications are needed, as this requires speed and patience.


3. Need Extra Caution and Care


You may be required to follow special instructions and precautions after applying PPF. These are worth it because you can save time on painting and repairs.


How to Care for Your Vehicle After Installing PPF


Here are some tips on how to care for PPF.

  1. Do not wash your vehicle for 7 days following the installation of PPF. This will allow the film to cure properly.
  2. Use mild soap and warm water to wash your car. Use mild soap and water to wash your car.
  3. After washing your car, you should dry it with a soft microfiber towel.
  4. Use only products that do not contain dye, kerosene, or naphtha on your paint protection film or clear bra. The dye may stain your film, while the other two substances can erode the thin film and cause it to be destroyed.
  5. Keep the pressure washer spray away from the PPF film edges to avoid it pushing under the film.
  6. Removing contaminants such as tree sap and bird droppings, bug splatters, etc., immediately is important.
  7. Regularly inspect the PPF for any damage. You can repair minor damage without having to replace the entire film if you are able to spot it.


Contact Us Today!


Installing PPF in your vehicle depends on a number of factors, such as your expectations and priorities.


This product offers unmatched protection for your car against minor scratches, wear and tear, and minor damage. The coating gives your car an incredibly polished and showroom-like appearance for many years. Despite the benefits of PPF, some car owners are put off by its cost, need for professional installation, and maintenance requirements.


The durability and aesthetics you will enjoy from installing PPF in your car overshadow these disadvantages. Speak to experts and professional installers if you are still unsure if PPF is the right choice for you, after carefully weighing all its pros and cons.


Select Gorilla Wraps and PPF to Install PPF on Your Car


Gorilla Wraps and PPF is a leading provider of PPF installation. Choose from a variety of premium products. Our Clear Bra installation range includes, for example, bronze clear bras, silver clear bras, gold clear bras, and platinum clearbra car coverage.


Our benefits and features include the best-in-class materials, durability, long-lasting, self-healing, clarity, and more. Contact us today for a free consultation to find out how you can protect your car with the best PPF in Florida.