Paint Protection Film (PPF): Is it Better than your Normal Car Paint?

paint protection film

Isn’t it true that even a little blemish on your brand-new automobile may make you want to rip your hair out? The paint on your automobile should be preserved so that it always appears brand new. Given the state of traffic in India, this is not a simple task. Even when we avoid scratches by a hair’s breadth, it’s by a hair’s breadth. We can’t expect to be lucky all the from paint time. Our autos will eventually suffer from paint scratches. So, how can we avoid this from happening in the future?

Automotive paint protection has been a popular concern among automobile purchasers, particularly new car buyers. Everyone likes to keep their automobiles looking nice. Read on to find out how car lamination came to be and what PPF was initially meant for.

paint protection film

The History of Paint Protection Film

The US Department of Defense encountered various concerns with helicopter rotor blades in the 1960s. Foreign things, such as flying shrapnel, would frequently damage the blades. Tired with this happening time over and over, the department commissioned 3M to create a clear, lightweight protective coating. The film’s purpose was to reinforce the surface without making it shiny. The film completed the job, and we now have PPF.

What exactly is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?

PPF and Clear Bra are typical abbreviations for Paint Protection Film. Yes, the name Clear Bra appears to be rather amusing; yet, it is a product and word that has been used in the past. If you look closely at images of automobiles from the 1990s, you could notice a black leather bra fastened in the front. It is essentially a paint protection coating that was thick compared to today’s standards.

Only with technological innovation has PPF become the light and transparent material that we see today. Paint protection films are now very mailable and can be stretched with heat to fit into intricate car openings or gaps. On automobiles, this allows them to be entirely hidden and unnoticed. So, if you had to ask, which is better? PPF is preferable to ceramic coating.

PPF, unlike ceramic goods, has hydrophobic qualities that resist water. It can shield automobiles against acidic impurities, mineral deposits, acid rain, insect spray, and rock fragments. In addition, PPF includes a top layer made of elastomeric polymers that can withstand rock chip damage. It then reverts to its normal shape after absorbing the previously listed threats.

paint protection film

Paint Protection Film for Automotive Applications

A high-quality thermoplastic urethane film is used in current vehicle paint protection films. PPF is either transparent or coloured and is put to the top layer of the car’s paint. It has self-healing capabilities. That’s correct! If your car’s lamination becomes scratched, it can heal itself. The laminate comprises an elastic polymeric component, which aids in its form retention when stretched. As a result, the PPF may self-heal tiny scratches!

Paint Protection Films That Are Popular

At first, only 3M produced this PPF for vehicle paint protection. However, firms such as SunTek and XPEL have recently developed their own versions of the same. Paint protection films come in a variety of styles. Here are a few examples:

  • Clear Mask
  • Clear Bra
  • Invisible Shield
  • Rock Chip Protection
  • Clear Wrap
  • Car Scratch Protection Film

Can I Install Paint Protection Film Myself?

Never believe you can apply PPF to your automobile at home. Believe us when we say this is not a do-it-yourself project. Hire an expert to install PPF on your vehicle. Many vehicle paint protection professionals also work as vinyl wrappers.

Benefits of Paint Protection Film

When used as an automobile lamination, a high-quality PPF can last up to ten years. High-quality paint protection films may make car paint protection a breeze. PPF helps shield your vehicle from small dings and rock chips. This amazing automobile laminating substance can keep your car appearing like new for an extended period. Though a PPF might be costly, the rewards are enormous. This will make investing in a PPF worthwhile! We propose getting one for your automobile and making a statement with a sparkling car.

Which is better: Paint Protection Film (PPF) or Ceramic Coating?

What exactly is a ceramic coating?

Ceramic Coating is a semi-permanent coating of protection that can be added or applied to your vehicle’s paint, chrome parts, and plastic trim. It is generally made up of substances such as Silica Dioxide and Titanium Dioxide, both of which have qualities that can preserve the vehicle’s paint and other body parts. Essentially, a coating is put to the car’s body. The coating subsequently covers the paint’s small pores, giving it a glossy appearance. The paint shows a hydrophobic property. By hydrophobic, we mean that the paint develops a water beading feature that will help keep the automobile clean.

paint protection film

The Difference? You Decide?

PPF and ceramic coating are both suggested because they have many benefits in common; they have certain distinguishing aspects that will assist you in determining the best option for your car.

When compared to Ceramic coating, PPF provides higher protection against damage caused by road debris and rock chips. PPF can absorb damage even before it comes into contact with the paint. Ceramic coating, unlike PPF, does not contain a urethane layer to protect the paint, but it performs a wonderful job of producing a glossy appearance.

Ceramic coating is a considerably more long-term option. PPF provides a lot more protection, but it must be changed eventually since the film can yellow and blister. PPF can also reduce the glossiness of the paint, whereas ceramic coating increases it.

The Final Word

PPF can protect the paint from rock chips and scratches, but ceramic coating adds shine and makes washing the car much easier because it is hydrophobic. They are both wonderful options, but it all boils down to the buyer’s convenience in deciding.

Karan Kapoor

Karan Kapoor

62 articles published

Karan Kapoor is a motorhead and a big time muscle car enthusiast. His Body functions on a 7L V8, and he trains it to become a W16. He tends to stay in the Fast Lane and sometimes is a little furious about it too. From Maruti to Ferrari, his love of cars is not hindered by price but specs. For 2 Wheels he loves choppers and cafe riders over sports bikes His love for travel is also paved by the roads, and long journeys that he finds more intriguing than the destination. His love for speed is halted by the legality of NOS in India. Give him 2 Wheels or 4. He knows how to handle 'em all.