The installation of PPF film to protect car bodies and windshields to protect your car from scratches and dirt is becoming popular. However, there are still many installations for luxury cars, and there are few familiar “impressions”. I want to know more about maintenance methods, etc. before I consider it. We have collected information that such people would like to know.
We have introduced PPF film in our previous article, and many of you may have been interested in it because of its features and characteristics.
However, since it is not yet in general use, there are not many people who have heard of people who have protected their car bodies with PPF and what they think about it. We will pick up three typical examples of questions about “PPF” that are actually searched and explain them.
What kind of film is PPF?
Let’s first review PPF, which stands for “Paint Protection Film” and is made by applying TPU (polyurethane elastomer) technology.
Although PPF is generally known to be applied to cars, it is possible to apply and protect PPF not only to cars but also to various parts of motorcycles.
The structure of PPF consists of a film base material (thermoplastic polyplastic), an adhesive layer, and a topcoat layer in a sheet of approximately 150 μ. By applying PPF to the car body, windshield, and headlight, it protects the car body from scratches and dirt caused by flying stones and friction.
It also has high functionality such as UV cut and water repellency, and the reason for its popularity is that it is easy to keep clean. Furthermore, by protecting the windshield with PPF, it is expected to prevent the glass from being damaged or scattered by flying rocks.
PPF is truly a sheet that kills two birds with one stone, protecting both “cleanliness” and “safety.
Things you may be wondering about PPF
You are interested in PPF film but still need to know what to implement.
Because it is not an inexpensive purchase, you want to make a well-considered choice.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
1.Maintenance of PPF
Coating the car body with PPF saves a lot of time and effort in washing the car. However, if it is not maintained at all, there will be disadvantages in terms of “aesthetics” and “functionality.
In terms of aesthetics, PPF is prone to water stains, and if the car is parked outdoors or left wet in the rain, stains and unevenness may occur.
Also, in terms of functionality, if stains and water spots (water stains) on PPF are left unattended, the self-repair function will not work properly, leaving scratches and water repellency will deteriorate. In order to maximize the original function and maintain its effectiveness, we recommend washing the car once a month.
In doing so, please pay attention to the following three points.
- Use a mild shampoo.
- Use deposit remover when water spots form.
- Car washes and high-pressure washers can be used, but be careful as the sheets may come off.
Although washing with water is sufficient to remove dirt, it is recommended to shampoo and wash thoroughly on a regular basis. In doing so, choose a neutral one, as strong acidity or alkalinity will adversely affect PPF.
Since no glass coating agent or wax is required, we hear that many people find maintenance easier.
2.Difference between PPF and car wrapping
The biggest difference between PPF film and car wrapping is “purpose”: PPF film protects the car body from scratches and dirt, while car wrapping is mostly applied for “aesthetic purposes” such as changing the color or adding luster, or as “advertising” for companies or products.
PPF
- Material: Polyester
- Thickness: Approx. 150µ to 200µ (depending on manufacturer)
- Purpose: Protection of vehicle body
- Longevity: 2 to 5 years (varies depending on usage)
- UV cut function: Yes
- Anti-step stone scratch function: Yes
Car wrapping
- Material: vinyl chloride
- Thickness: Approx. 150µ
- Purpose: To change the color of the car body or partially decorate it
- Longevity: Approx. 3 years (subject to change depending on usage)
- UV cut function: None
- Anti-scratch function for stepping stones: None
It is important to note that although the “coating” of the car body with a sheet is the same, the function and performance are fundamentally different. Compared to car wrapping film, there are fewer colors available, but in recent years, colored PPF has been introduced. Color variations and quality improvements are expected.
When considering between PPF and car wrapping film, it is a good idea to consider whether “protection” or “aesthetics” should be (the priority choice).
3.Does PPF have any flaws when exfoliated?
When you exfoliate PPF, you may worry that the paint on the car body will be peeled off. However, in most cases, there is no problem. In one case, when we peeled off a car that had PPF applied 8 years ago, there were stains and yellowing on the surface of the sheet, but we were able to peel it off without peeling off the paint or leaving any PPF adhesive residue, so there is no need to be overly concerned. PPF can be maintained functionally and aesthetically if it is reupholstered every three to five years. If you are concerned, we recommend that you reupholster regularly.
The exception to this is if there are scratches on the car body, in which case the paint may peel off with the peeling. It is recommended to consult with the installer before doing so.
How was it? Did we solve the points you were concerned about?
If you are considering installation or introduction, please feel free to contact HMP.
The PPF we handle is manufactured at our own factory in Japan, and we are confident of its quality. In addition, our strength lies in our material selection, which is tailor-made to meet the needs of our customers.
Now that the need for PPF is increasing, why don’t you consider introducing it once?
