What is PPF and How Long Does it Last?
Keeping our cars in the best condition is something many of us strive to achieve. After all, our vehicles are a big investment, so it’s vital to keep them looking great as long as possible. One way to keep the vehicle paint in a stellar condition is by adding paint protection film (PPF). PPF is a car care service that preserves the life of the automotive paint and helps to protect the paint from damage and markings caused by scratches, bird droppings, bug splatter, and more. Here’s some information on what PPF is, how long the paint protection film lasts, and why you should consider adding it to your vehicle.
What is PPF?
PPF, or paint protection film, is thin, durable thermoplastic urethane that is applied to the vehicle paint surface. Once in place, this film will protect the paint from chips due to rocks, dirt, and debris that can hit the car while driving. It’s also a good protective measure against tree debris, bug splatter, and bird droppings. When you apply paint protection film to your vehicle, the paint will maintain its new appearance and the film will help preserve the overall value of the vehicle.
How is PPF Applied?
When PPF is applied to the vehicle, it’s a process that can often be completed in a few steps. Here’s how the car care center adds paint protection film to your car:
- The car exterior is wiped down and washed before the car care professional applies the PPF.
- The car care service employee cuts the required amount of PPF to fit the vehicle.
- A soapy substance is sprayed on the car so that the PPF can be placed on top of the vehicle and adjusted accordingly.
- A squeegee is run over the top of the paint protection film to smooth it out and any excess film is trimmed.
- It will take about 1-2 days for the PPF to cure.
How Long Does PPF Last?
The length of time that the PPF lasts on the vehicle without wear and tear varies. However, PPF generally can last around five to ten years if it has been professionally installed. If your PPF has self-healing qualities, this type of paint protection film often lasts longer than film that doesn’t have this feature. Some of the factors that determine how long the PPF lasts on your vehicle include how often you drive your car, what type of weather elements and driving hazards come in contact with your vehicle, and whether you park your car in a garage or beneath a carport or leave it parked outside.
Why Should You Add Paint Protection Film to Your Vehicle?
Now that you know more about PPF, you may be wondering if this type of car covering film is right for your vehicle. In general, many car owners can benefit from adding paint protection film to the exterior of their vehicle. For example, if you have a new car that you invested a lot of money into, it may be well worth it to hire a car care professional to add PPF to your vehicle. You want to keep your vehicle looking new and maintain it well. Adding paint protection film can help you in these areas. On the other hand, if you own an older model vehicle that has quite a few scratches and dents already, adding paint protection film may not be worth it. The damage may be done to the vehicle and preserving the paint on a car that could use some touching up may not be worth the money.
Solar Shield Offers the PPF Services You Need
If you want to do everything you can to protect your vehicle’s paint and preserve the beauty of your automobile, consider adding PPF to your car. Solar Shield in Fort Smith, Arkansas, offers paint protection film services in addition to many other car care services. If you live in the Fort Smith area, you can bring your car to Solar Shield to have PPF applied and rest easy knowing the paint on your vehicle will be protected no matter whether you park under a sap-filled tree or hit pebbles and debris on the highway. When you add PPF to your car, you can preserve the appearance and value of your vehicle with ease.
Contact Solar Shield today to make your paint protection film appointment!