Step Two – Pre-Cutting the Material
There are two types of methods for applying the PPF. Most professional installers of PPF use a plotter or a machine that pre-cuts the material in smaller, custom-fit sections – like a fender or door edges.
This helps to reduce waste, save the client and installer money, and of course – resources. It also is crucial to expediting the PPF installation and making it fit better in smaller sections like door jams, headlights, and grilles.
The second method is using bulk film. It’s basically used when an installer does not have a plotter – and tends to result in excess material, more time, and less precision or accuracy of the installation.
When used by an experienced installer, these problems can be mitigated. In fact, some are so good that they can hand-cut to fit rocker panels, side mirrors, the hood, deck lid, spoilers, and more.
Step Three – Fitting
To ensure accuracy, the installer will pre-fit the car protection film. The paint protection film market is filled with multiple brands and types of installation types – like a clear bra that only goes on the front of the vehicle. Fitting the clear bra to the paintwork is a tedious and precision process that verifies that the material will fit each section and connect or blend with each other with reduced gaps.
While this does add some additional time to the complete process, it’s worth it in the end – as it will protect the paintwork and other areas of the vehicle against rock chips or a light scratch, which can be fixed easily with self healing PPF.
Step Four – Spraying the Fitting Solution
The activator which permits the clear bra or PPF to bond to the surface is called a fitting solution. When sprayed to the painted surface and on top of the PPF, it activates the adhesive – which is a glue basically and bonds tightly to the surface.
Again, each brand of PPF has recommended fitting solution properties, some can range from distilled water to chemically-activated agents. This helps it bond to a car’s paintwork, helping to block UV rays, oxidation, corrosion, and eventually the development of rust.
Step Five – Application and Final Fit
This is the step that makes the magic occur. The experienced PPF installer will carefully glide the PPF into perfect fit. It’s a process of fitting, spraying solution, moving around, squeegee of bubbles, and more. When it’s in the exact position, the installer will use a squeegee to remove creases or bubbles from the PPF. Once the PPF clear bra has bonded to the paint surface, it provides exceptional sealant or surface protection on the car’s exterior – especially against a normal scratch, bird dropping, a rock chip
Step Six – Drying
The final step of the clear bra or PPF installation is drying. This can be done a few different ways – either by time or using a specific drying procedure. Most professional PPF’s are heat-activated by use of a heat gun or even placed into a heat chamber. The process essentially activates the ‘glue’ and restricts the material to create an incredibly tight fit.
How Long Does Paint Protection Film Last?
A professionally prepped andapplied paint protection filmhas an expected longevity of five to 10 years. However, like any other paint protection solution, the durability of the PPF is impacted by several variables.
The Prep Work
Like we stated above, the condition of the surface prior to applying the PPF is a major factor that impacts longevity of automobile protection. If the surface is clean, free of scratches, and any contaminants, the adhesive will bond better and ensure a tighter fit.
The Application
Having a certified paint protection film installer complete the entire process is another surefire way to extend the lifespan of your PPF. The material and supplies they use is just as crucial.
Most PPF brands, like Ceramic Pro PPF Kavaca partner with the best professional detailers and installers, have advanced training and certification process, to ensure their clients receive the best possible service. Working with the right PPF dealer will reduce air bubbles in the finished product, which makes the PPF look seamless.
Inferior top coat materials are common in cheap products, which leads to yellowing or potential for a stain to occur. It also provides reduced protection against bug acids.
Environmental Factors
While a PPF is intended to protect the surface from exposure to UV light, acid rain, bird droppings and other environmental factors, too much can have negative consequences.
To reduce this potential, applying a professional-grade nano ceramic coating on top of the PPF can provide an additional layer of protection – extending the life span to the lifetime of the vehicle in some cases.
What are the Pros and Cons of Paint Protection Film?
We’re not here to blow smoke – but to provide facts. And the fact remains that paint protection film is not for everyone. While it’s a great way to reduce scratching, rock chips, and other surface damage, it comes with some pros and cons to consider.
Pros of Paint Protection Film
- Strongest material to protect against rock chips and paint damage
- Incredible healing properties – like Wolverine – if you want Deadpool healing, an Instant Healing PPF like Kavaca is perfect
- Prevents paint scratching, marring, or swirl marks
- Longest lasting paint protection solution on the market – up to 10 years or more when combined with a professional-grade nano coating
- Better engineering and technology than in years past – no more yellowing or reduced hydrophobic properties
Cons of Paint Protection Film
- Many grades of PPF. Not all products or brands are same – so do your research to choose the best solution for your application.
- Difference in Self Healing Property: There are some PPF’s that offer the ultimate paint protection film properties – by instantly healing scratches. But most are ‘self-healing’ that require some heat or physical repair techniques to remove the surface scratches.
- Not a DIY solution. A paint protection film is a professional-grade clear film product that should be applied by experts. While there are DIY clear bra products, results simply don’t match professional-grade PPF
- It’s an investment. There is no way to spin this – PPF is not cheap. It’s an investment in the quality and condition of your vehicle. It’s always best to work with a certified PPF dealership or authorized detailer.
Expanding the Life and Effectiveness of PPF
We mentioned this briefly above, but the best way to protect and enhance your paint protection film is to have a professional-grade nano-ceramic coating applied on top.
