5 Questions You Should Ask About Paint Protection Film

We know. You bought that vehicle because it gets great gas mileage and has an awesome sound system. But let’s be honest. You first fell in love with its color. Paint is “the face” of your vehicle, and in a world destined to inflict chips, scratches, fading and stains, it needs paint protection film (PPF).

Not sure where to start? Here are some questions to ask about paint protection film and installation:

Is it Pricey?

The cost of installing paint protection film depends on several factors. The first question is, which areas do you want to cover? Protecting the most vulnerable areas, such as the hood, front bumper and rocker panels is the most popular option, but you may choose to protect the entire vehicle. Professional installation ranges from about $1,200 to as much as $8,000 for the entire vehicle.

Thinking about DIY? Notice that most of the products advise you to buy more than the amount of film you think it will take. You’re going to need it, along with a lot of patience. (And do you really want your mouth washed out with soap?)

What About the Quality of the PPF?

Paint protection film can be described as “armor” for your vehicle. But unless you lived in the Middle Ages, you don’t know much about armor. The composition of PPFs varies, but most are 8 mil thick and nearly invisible. Higher quality paint protection films not only resist abrasions, chips and scratches, they also protect against stains and bug droppings. The best PPFs repel water, mud and grime, and actually make it easier to keep your car clean. But it’s really all about two things: the toughness and endurance of the film layers and how well they showcase and maintain the beauty of your original paint.

Does PPF Include a Warranty?

Reliable paint protection film brands come with a warranty, many at no extra cost. Paint protection film is an investment that can keep your car’s exterior looking like new for years to come, which helps retain your vehicle’s value. The warranty is a big deal. It should cover both labor as well as the product, which means it’s worth your time to compare what different warranties cover and for how long.

How Important is the Technology Behind the PPF?

Very, but it varies. Besides researching the leading brands online, we recommend talking to your PPF installation center about the pros and cons of each. Ask about scratch and stain resistance, UV fading protection, different finishes (glossy, matte, colored), and the installation process. Oh, and the digital technology behind the precisely cut PPF patterns is a gamechanger.

What are the Brand Options?

You have choices here. Nothing against newcomers, but we’re not talking about a new app – it’s your vehicle. The go-to brands for paint protection film are those with a track record for high quality and performance. Do your research, then talk to your local paint protection expert. Need a name? We can help you find it here.

Have More Questions?

We’ve got answers! Check out the Solar Gard line of paint protection films on our website. Solar Gard also endorses master installers around the world whose knowledge and expertise will put your mind at ease. Get the right product for your vehicle.

Find a Solar Gard Pro in your area

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