Vehicle paint protection film (PPF) is a transparent layer of urethane, a versatile polymer. It resembles plastic, but it’s more resistant to cracks and tears. PPF protects vehicles from scratches and minor abrasions. It can also minimize salt air corrosion from driving near the ocean and help keep paint looking pristine.
PPF prevents fading and gives paint a more glossy, polished appearance. Making a vehicle look more appealing can also increase its resale value. Cars with PPF are easier to clean, and they usually only require a soft cloth. Here are some of the types of PPFs available including their benefits.
Gloss PPF
Gloss PPF helps your vehicle look new for as long as possible. It makes paint look shinier while protecting it from gravel, tree sap, acid rain, bird droppings, and many other hazards. Some gloss PPFs resist UV rays, protecting your car from fading and discoloration.
Satin PPF
Satin PPF is for cars with matte finishes. The specialized paint on some luxury vehicles is very costly, and adding satin PPF can help you protect your investment. You can also use this type of PPF to change a glossy finish to a more matte look.
Entry-Level PPF
Entry-level PPF uses an older, less costly formula. While it’s easier on the wallet, it usually doesn’t include UV protection, so cars with it may be susceptible to fading.
Fashion Film
Fashion film comes in a variety of colors and lets people change the look of their vehicles without spending money on a new paint job.
Self-Healing PPF
Self-healing PPF uses heat from the vehicle’s engine or the sun to help repair chips and scratches and make swirl marks less noticeable. It contains thermoplastic polymers that help the PPF return to its original shape after different types of damage. The latest self-healing PPF uses nanotechnology (the manipulation of materials on a molecular or atomic scale). This allows the healing agents to be dispersed evenly throughout the film to quickly heal minor chips or scratches on the PPF or painted surface layer.
Edge Seal Technology
Edge seal technology protects the edges of PPF from moisture and dirt. The sealant helps PPF retain its strength and clarity. It also provides protection against chemical damage from environmental contaminants or cleaners.
Temporary PPF
Cars on racetracks were the first to use temporary PPF, but consumers now use it for short-term protection during vehicle delivery, long trips towing a vehicle behind an RV, or similar situations.
Off-Road PPF
Off-road PPF is heavy-duty. It can withstand a variety of rugged conditions and protect paint from branches, rocks, and other debris encountered during your off-road adventure.
PPF Layers
PPF usually comes in ready-to-use rolls with different layers. The top layer keeps other layers clean and protects them until installation is over; then, the installer removes this layer.
The middle layer has an adhesive that attaches the PPF to the vehicle’s clear coat. When needed, you can remove the PPF without damaging the paint.
The urethane layer is the thickest part of a PPF. It flexes after an impact from debris, reducing damage by absorbing most of the force. Some PPFs use polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as a base material instead of urethane. It’s resistant to UV light, oil, water, chemicals, and grease.
The last layer is a thin, clear film that seals the urethane layer and protects it from contaminants. It has a low surface energy to keep organic substances, such as bugs or bird droppings, from staining the film.
Solvent-Based PPFs
Solvent-based PPFs use a solvent as the base material. It creates a strong bond between the surface of the vehicle and the film. These PPFs are often thicker and more durable than other types of PPFs.
Water-Based PPFs
Water-based PPFs use a water-based adhesive for easier professional installation. They don’t require any chemicals or solvents when being applied, and they offer excellent UV resistance.
Ceramic Topcoats
A ceramic topcoat doesn’t provide as much protection from scratches as a PPF, but it can keep UV rays on those sunny California days and environmental contaminants from damaging your vehicle’s paint job. We offer the Lexus Topcoat Ceramic Diamond Protection service at Longo Lexus, which is a 24-hour, eight-step process.
The Benefits of PPF
PPF can last for up to a decade. It can resist high temperatures and keep your vehicle looking shiny and new longer. It’s easy to maintain, and clear PPFs can go over headlights. The amount of PPF coverage is customizable. Some owners only want PPF in the most vulnerable areas, such as the front bumper and hood. Others choose the investment of full-vehicle coverage.
If your vehicle gets scratched or has other minor damage that self-healing can’t fix, a professional can remove the damaged PPF and replace it with new film. Almost all automotive manufacturers approve PPFs as original equipment. Before getting a PPF, have any scratches or other damage to your vehicle’s paint repaired. This keeps flaws in the paint from becoming trapped underneath the PPF. Having your PPF installed by a professional, such as 626 Customs at Longo Lexus, helps prevent peeling, blistering or bubbles beneath the surface, and other issues. Installing a PPF in a clean environment looks more flawless.
Most PPFs are pre-cut using software to keep the film less than 1/8 inch from all edges. By avoiding the need for cutting the PPF on the vehicle, this system reduces the risk of damaging your vehicle’s paint. Many PPF manufacturers offer five- to 10-year warranties on their PPFs.
Paint Protection Is a Specialty
PPF is one of many Longo Lexus specialties. Having one of our experts apply your PPF can keep your vehicle’s paint in excellent condition longer. Find us at 3530 North Peck Road in El Monte, California, make an appointment today for one of our 626 Customs Powered by Longo team to install your PPF. Our service department is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
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