If you are a car owner, you might have heard of PPF coating as a way to protect your car’s paint from scratches, chips and other damages. But what exactly is PPF coating? What makes it worth all the admiration and demand among car lovers? In this blog, we are going to explore the many aspects of paint protection films, the challenges that come with it, answer some important questions that might come up in your mind as you keep reading and leave you with enough knowledge to make a call on when to get your car installed with a strong PPF coating. Buckle up, folks!
Table of contents
How does PPF work?
Paint Protection Film or PPF, is a sophisticated product that consists of three layers, each with a specific function. The top layer is a self-healing coat that protects the car from scratches, stains and oxidation. It also gives the film a glossy and smooth appearance. The middle layer is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which is a flexible and durable material that can resist rock chip impacts and abrasions. It also has high elongation at break, which means it can stretch without breaking. The bottom layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive that bonds the film to the car’s surface. It also allows the film to be removed or replaced if needed. PPF works by creating a shield over the car’s paint, which prevents it from getting damaged by debris, bugs, stones and UV rays. It also enhances the gloss and shine of your car and preserves its resale value. PPF coating must be done by professional detailers like CarzSpa.
Which parts of my car can be applied with PPF?
PPF coating is a versatile product that can be applied to any part of your car that you want to protect from damage. However, some parts may benefit more from PPF than others, depending on the exposure and risk of damage. Here are some of the most common parts of your car that can be applied with PPF:
Bonnet: The bonnet is one of the most exposed parts of your car and it can get damaged by stones, bugs, bird droppings and other debris.
Bumper: The bumper is another part of your car that can get easily scratched, chipped or dented by minor collisions, parking mishaps or road hazards.
Fenders: The fenders are the parts of your car that cover the wheels and they can get damaged by mud, gravel or other road elements.
Rearview mirrors: The rearview mirrors of your car are essential for your safety and visibility and they can get damaged by flying objects, vandalism or weather conditions.
Rocker panels: The rocker panels are the parts of your car that run along the bottom of the doors and they can get damaged by rocks, salt or other road debris.
Door edges: The door edges of your car can get scratched or dented by other car doors, keys, shopping carts or other objects.
Door handles: The door handles of your car can get scratched or stained by car keys, keychains or other objects.
These are some of the parts of your car that can be applied with paint protection film, but you can also choose to apply PPF to other parts, such as the roof, the boot or the entire car. The choice is yours, depending on your budget and preference.
Is PPF removable?
One of the common questions that car owners have about PPF or Paint Protection Film, is whether it is removable or not. The answer is yes, PPF is removable and it does not damage the car’s paint in the process. However, the removal of PPF should be done by a professional, who can use the right tools and techniques to ensure a safe and smooth removal.
CarzSpa uses a pressure-sensitive adhesive for its PPF, which is an innovation that allows the film to bond well with the car’s surface, but also to peel off easily when needed. The pressure-sensitive adhesive does not leave any residue or marks on the car’s paint and it preserves the original condition of the car. Therefore, if you want to remove or replace your PPF, you can trust CarzSpa to do it for you, without compromising the quality of your car.
Advantages and Disadvantages of PPF on cars
| Advantages of PPF on cars | Disadvantages of PPF on cars |
|---|---|
1. It protects your car’s paint from scratches, chips and other damage caused by debris, bugs, stones and UV rays. | 1. It is very expensive, depending on the quality, thickness and coverage of the film. |
2. It has self-healing properties, which means that it can heal minor scratches and scuffs by applying heat or sunlight. | 2. It is difficult to install and requires a professional who can use special tools and techniques to ensure a smooth and flawless finish. |
3. It is long-lasting and can last up to 10 years or more with proper maintenance. | 3. It may discolour over time, especially if it is exposed to high temperatures, chemicals or pollutants. |
4. It enhances the gloss and shine of your car and preserves its resale value | 4. It is hard to remove and may damage the car’s paint if not done properly. |
5. It can be applied to any part of the car, such as the bonnet, bumper, doors, mirrors, headlights, etc. | 5. It may not adhere well to surfaces that have been repainted or have experienced damage in the past. |
Is ceramic coating better than PPF?
Choosing between ceramic coating and PPF depends on your priorities. Both offer excellent paint protection, but they shine in different areas.
PPF
Supreme physical protection: Think invisible armour. It shields against scratches, rock chips and even minor dents, absorbing the impact before your paint takes a hit.
Self-healing properties: Minor scratches? No problem! PPF has self-healing properties that smooth out imperfections with heat.
Longer lifespan: A professionally applied ceramic coating can last for years, while PPF may need reapplication.
Ceramic coating
Unmatched shine and gloss: Get that “just-detailed” look every day. Ceramic coating enhances the paint’s natural gloss and repels dirt, making cleaning a breeze.
Hydrophobic properties: Rainwater beads up and rolls off, taking dirt and dust with it.
Lower initial cost: Compared to ceramic coating, PPF often has a friendlier price tag.
Ultimately, the “best” choice depends on your needs. If you drive on rough roads or park in busy areas, PPF like Aegis PPF, considered as the best paint protection film, offers superior physical protection. If you prioritise an immaculate shine and easy cleaning, ceramic coating reigns supreme. And remember, you can even combine both for maximum protection!
How long does PPF last?
Investing in high-quality car paint protection like PPF is a smart move, but its lifespan naturally sparks curiosity. Thankfully, PPF is built to endure! You can expect a well-maintained film to last between 5 and 10 years.
The longevity depends on several factors:
Film quality: Premium PPFs like Aegis Ultra 250 boast superior durability and self-healing abilities compared to cheaper alternatives.
Climate and exposure: Harsh UV rays and extreme temperatures can slightly shorten lifespan. Consider your parking situation and choose PPF accordingly.
Maintenance: Proper washing and occasional application of PPF-specific care products keep your film looking and performing its best.
FUN FACT: The thickest PPF in India, Eternal 300 actually offers a lifetime warranty. since it is as thick as 300 microns.
While lifespan is important, don’t forget the immediate benefits of PPF. Scratches, rock chips and even minor dents become a thing of the past, preserving your car’s value and beauty for years to come.
How much does PPF coating cost?
The paint protection film cost on your car depends on a few key factors. Let’s take Aegis PPF by CarzSpa, a popular option in India, as a reference point. Here’s a general idea:
- Car Size: Hatchbacks average around ₹65,500, while SUVs can reach up to ₹2,30,000. Sedans fall somewhere in between.
- Coverage Area: Full-body coverage naturally costs more than just protecting high-impact zones like the hood and bumper.
So, expect a ballpark range of ₹65,500 to ₹2,30,000 for PPF coating, depending on your car size and coverage choices. Remember, these are estimates and the actual cost might vary based on your specific car model, installer location and additional services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the disadvantages of PPF on cars?
PPF is a great way to protect your car’s paint from various damages, but it also has some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages of PPF is the cost, which can be quite high depending on the quality and coverage of the film. Another downside of PPF is the installation process, which requires a lot of skill and precision. To achieve a flawless and invisible look, the film has to be carefully applied to each panel of the car, which may involve removing some parts, such as roof rails, grilles, badges, door handles, headlights and bumpers. This can cause some clips to break or damage, affecting the factory fit and finish of the car.
2. Is PPF better or ceramic?
If you prefer a deeper shine to your car’s paint, Ceramic Coatings offer a higher gloss than PPF. It also has an advantage over PPF regarding the car’s ease of cleaning. PPF enables hassle-free ownership since it offers more protection against minor scratches. That said, PPF is expensive compared to Ceramic Coatings.
3. Will PPF damage my car’s paint?
No, high-quality PPF is designed to be gentle on your paint. In fact, it protects your paint from scratches, rock chips and even minor dents. However, it’s always best to get the installation done by a professional to ensure proper application.
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