Keeping your car looking brand new can seem like an impossible task. Everyday driving, road debris, harsh weather, other cars, and environmental factors pose a threat to your factory paint job. Instead of keeping your car in the garage, there are paint protection options available that work to protect and extend the lifetime of your paint and preserve its resale value.
In this blog post by Pista Film Solutions, we’ll delve into two popular choices: Paint Protection Films (PPF) and Ceramic Coatings. Both options have worked in unique ways to protect your car’s factory paint from physical and chemical damage. Understanding the differences between the two options allows you to make an informed decision on which will work best for your lifestyle needs, vehicle, and everyday driving habits.
What is Paint Protection Film? (PPF)
Paint protection film, or PPF, is a thermoplastic urethane film that is wrapped around the exterior of your car. This thick (8 mil or eight thousandths of an inch) transparent film acts as a sacrificial barrier that protects your car from the following:
- Scratches caused by debris and dirt
- Swirl marks
- Chemical or acid stains
- Hard water marks caused by mineral deposits
- Oxidation and fading from UV rays
- Dings and chips
- Track wear and tear
- Key damage or vandalism
PPF is 100% optically clear, allowing your factory paint to shine through while still being protected. Plus, it has self-healing technology that seamlessly mends small imperfections such as cracks, chips, or dings. To learn more about paint protection film and how it works visit here.
Benefits of Using Paint Protection Film
01. Superior protection against physical damage
As a thick external layer around your car, the PPF film is unmatched in its ability to protect your car from physical damage. Say goodbye to the risk of heavy scratches, impacts, or paint chips.
02. Shields against UV Damage
PPF helps to shield your factory paint against the sun’s UV rays, preventing fading and discoloration.
03. Self-healing properties
PPF film has a minor self-healing property that, when exposed to heat, can dissolve swirls and scratches back into the film, making it look brand new.
04. Maximum shine and high-gloss finish
Not only does PPF protect against damage, but it also provides a sleek, glossy shine that truly brings out the best in your factory paint color.
05. Customizable
PFF films are able to be placed strategically around your car in high-risk areas such as your bumper, fenders, mirrors, and anywhere else you want targeted protection
Installing PPF
To install PPF, it is recommended to take your car to a professional to have this service performed, as once the film is applied to your car, it is difficult and costly to remove. Going to a professional installer such as us here at Pista Film Solutions will ensure a flawless and cost-effective application.
Our technicians will thoroughly clean your car with a foam wash and decontaminate soap to ensure that it is in the best condition possible before sealing in the look with the PPF film. They will also do a clay bar pass to remove any contaminants further. The film is then very carefully applied in large sheets to the body of the car, and then the edges are heated and sealed, creating a seemingly invisible layer around the car.
What are Ceramic Coatings?
Ceramic coatings are a liquid polymer solution that is painted onto the car and chemically bonds with your vehicle’s factory paint, creating a protective layer. These coatings create a hydrophobic layer resistant to contaminants, chemical damage, and UV oxidation while enhancing the paint’s durability and leaving it with a glossy shine. With many options to choose from, your installation professional can offer insight into which type of coating is best for your car and lifestyle.
Benefits of Ceramic Coatings
While Ceramic Coatings provide some damage protection like PPF, its primary purpose is to repel UV Rays, chemical damage, and environmental contaminants.
Comparing PPF and Ceramic Coatings
PPF
CERAMIC
Durability
Protection
Clarity and Appearance
Process
Cost
Tips for Combining PPF and Ceramic Coatings for Enhanced Protection
Many car owners opt to install both paint protection film and ceramic coatings on their vehicles for the maximum amount of protection. PPF tackles physical damage, while ceramic coatings enhance the paint’s resilience to chemical damage and improves its overall appearance. Standing alone, each option has various limitations to what they can do to protect your car. With PPF, you may be trading looks for protection, while with ceramic coatings, you are prioritizing shine. Instead, ceramic coating is often applied on top of PPF, offering aesthetic value and its hydrophobic properties, making it easy to clean. By combining both options, you can extend the longevity of your car’s factory paint much longer than with just one option.
Contact Pista Film Solutions For PPF and Ceramic Coating Installation in Seattle
Overall, when looking into paint protection options, PPF and Ceramic Coatings are the two most optimal options. PPF provides robust physical protection against impacts, preventing scratches and chips, while Ceramic Coating adds a chemical shield, defending against contaminants and enhancing the vehicle’s aesthetics. Both options have varied attributes and limitations that should be considered based on your everyday driving needs and main points of concern.
At Pista Film Solutions we recommend a dual approach to ensure comprehensive protection and the long-term preservation of your vehicle’s original appearance. While the initial investment may be higher, the lasting benefits in terms of resilience, chemical resistance, and overall enhancement make the combination of PPF and ceramic coating the most effective choice for those prioritizing the well-being and aesthetics of their vehicles. Contact us today for PPF and Ceramic Coating installation in the Seattle Area!
