Our Services
- Minneapolis
1313 Osborne Rd NE, Minneapolis, MN 55432
- Medina
How Does Paint Protection Film Work?
Table of Contents
Nobody wants to discover a paint chip or minor scratch on the exterior of their vehicle. Afterall, a vehicle is a big investment and it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect it – which starts with Paint Protection Film (PPF).
PPF also known as a clear bra, is a thick layer of clear urethane film designed to preserve the quality of your vehicle’s exterior paint job. PPF prevents damage by providing protection from stone chips, road debris, and more – ultimately maintaining the quality and value of your vehicle.
In this article, we will explore the concept of PPF and its role in protecting a vehicle’s paintwork.
What PPF Is
Factory paint can be easily chipped or scratched, but PPF acts as a shield against potential damage. This protective film consists of three layers, all which simultaneously work together to protect your vehicle. Here are the three layers of PPF:
Adhesive: The adhesive layer is a glue-like substance that enables the urethane layer to stick to the vehicle. This layer not only binds all the layers together, but it also allows for an easy application and removal (without causing any damage to your vehicle’s paint).
Urethane: The thickest layer of PPF is urethane, which is a polymer formed from a mixture of chemical compounds – creating a strong and flexible material. When a force of energy hits the car (like rocks or debris), the urethane layer will flex and absorb the energy.
Top Coat: The top coat is a very thin protective layer for the urethane layer, as urethane is prone to collecting potential damaging microscopic particles (like contaminants, airborne chemicals, and pollutants).
The top coat will prevent this, while also providing additional protection from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These UV rays can cause oxidation, discoloration, and fading on vehicles.
Why PPF Works
Most PPFs are equipped with self-healing technology, which works exactly how it sounds! This technology allows for the PPF to heal itself from surface level paint damage (like scratches or scuffs) over time.
Some higher quality films are infused with nanotechnology, which is the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules. Nanotechnology allows for instant healing of the painted surface, so you won’t even know it was ever there!
PPF increases durability, preserves your exterior, and prevents potential damage through effective film formulas with innovative technologies.
TintPro's PPF Installation Process
Each shop will have its own unique process when it comes to installing PPF. With that being said, we follow a process we’ve developed and perfected over the course of our company’s 20-year history. While the installation method is simple, the task itself requires a significant amount of patience and attention to detail.
Preparation: We begin by preparing the vehicle with a hand wash, mechanical decontamination, and paint decontamination.
Detailing: We then meticulously clean the exterior of the vehicle, ensuring that nothing will prevent a clean, smooth, and long-lasting application.
Protection: Once the vehicle is prepped and thoroughly cleaned, we carefully and precisely apply the PPF to the desired areas.
We want you to share the same confidence in our products and services that we have, which is why all of our PPFs have a 10 year warranty.
Conclusion - How Does Paint Protection Film Work?
PPF protects the exterior of your vehicle from potential damage, preserving your vehicle’s appearance and maintaining its value. Whether you want to customize your vehicle with a new color or finish, or keep it the same – PPF will protect your vehicle with its anti-contamination and self-healing technologies.
If you’re in Minnesota, we would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the installation of paint protection on your vehicle. If you’re interested in working with us, contact us at 763-312-6137
Paint Protection Film FAQ
There are multiple factors that determine the cost of a PPF installation, such as vehicle model and customization choices. With that being said, PPF installations can typically range from $300 – $7,000.
While PPF really requires little to no maintenance on your end, there are a few things to be aware of. After installation, wait 48 hours to wash your vehicle. When you do wash your vehicle, avoid using high-pressure water sources near the edges of the film, as this can cause the film to lift.
If you discover a stain, it can be removed by a film cleaner. If the stain is still not budging, you can use 99% isopropyl alcohol (but make sure to keep these chemicals off the vehicle’s paint). If you discover light scratches in the film, not to worry, as this will self-heal in 20-30 minutes at room temperature. In colder conditions, or to accelerate the process, pour warm water (120°F) over the affected area.
Do NOT use any of these cleaning products:
Solvent oil-based cleaners
Kitchen and oven cleaners
Bathroom cleaners
Orange and citrus oil engine degreasers.
To preserve high gloss, we recommend using a protection film sealant at least once every three months.
