How Long Does Paint Protection Film Last?

Paint protection film (URL)

Paint Protection Film or PPF is a transparent film that attaches to your vehicle’s exterior paint. The film aims to protect the finish from chips, scratches and fading by deflecting most impacts. Deflecting an object takes the majority of its energy away, so there isn’t much damage to your actual paint. It also protects against rusting due to stone chips which can eventually lead to bodywork down the road if not appropriately protected.

The life of a paint protection film (PPF) installation is a cycle. The film gradually breaks down, and as it does so, you lose some of the benefits of the protection the film provides. As this happens, you have to replace the existing film with new material to continue enjoying those benefits.

The common wisdom that most people embrace about the replacement cycle is that every three years is about right for most PPF installations. Many dealers suggest replacement at this interval even if no discernible degradation has been detected on your vehicle. Others recommend five-year cycles because they believe it gives them enough time to spread their income and make more money (by having two sales events instead of one).

The key to making the best decision on when to replace your PPF is careful observation. Take note of any changes you see in the surface of film installed over your vehicle’s painted finish. Monitor the presence of bubbles or other signs that indicate damage that may have occurred during installation. If these issues are detected early enough, it may be possible to reprint the damaged areas at a lower cost than replacing the entire piece.

Unfortunately, there is no way to restore what you have lost in smoothness or clarity once damage occurs. For this reason alone, you must pay attention to what you see happening with your PPF over time so that problems can be caught before they become irreversible. This way, you can plan the replacement cost to avoid having a financial setback at an inconvenient time.

The good news is that PPF generally does not need to be replaced unless the underlying film or installation damage becomes visible. Even if you have had a hard life with your vehicle, there should still be several years’ worth of protection left under the film, provided it was installed correctly and without defects from fabrication. If you need to get get your PPF replaced, click the following link to check out your options: calgarypaintprotectionfilm.ca.

Benefits of Paint Protection Film

Paint protection film also referred to as a clear bra, is a transparent polymer sheet applied directly on the surface of a vehicle’s body. It serves several purposes, which include protecting the paint from chips and scratches. Although it might seem to be a luxury item for a car owner, in reality, it has various benefits. Some of them are mentioned below.

Improved resale value

One significant benefit includes an improved resale value. Car dealers highly recommend applying this protective layer on new cars because there is no doubt about its ability to protect car paint from harmful elements such as UV rays and dirt buildup. This type of application will help you receive more money when selling your car and protect it from damage. The paint will remain intact for a more extended period, hence increasing the overall lifespan of the vehicle.

Prevents against scratches and stone chips

This is one of the primary reasons why professional detailers recommend applying this product to new cars. It makes use of a transparent film that covers every inch and recess in the car body. That means that all types of scratches and chips can be prevented efficiently by using this item during regular maintenance procedures such as washing and waxing. Also, when it’s applied after sanding down your car’s paint job, you’ll be able to avoid any possible bumps or scrapes driving around town or out on the highway.

Enhances the appearance of a vehicle 

On top of that, you can enhance your car’s overall look and feel by applying paint protection film to its body. If applied professionally, it will not affect visibility or hinder certain operations, such as opening doors or windows.

Keeps contaminants out

Another benefit refers to keeping all types of harmful contaminants away from your car paint job. Contaminants often act like sandpaper on the exterior, reducing paint’s quality over time if left ignored. By using this protective transparent paint protection film, you can prevent damage caused by impurities such as acid rain, saltwater corrosion, bird droppings, and road grime.

Prevents discoloration and oxidation 

When car paint is exposed for a certain period, it will begin to oxidize. This usually happens when metal bodies of vehicles are exposed to ultra-violet rays from the sun. In addition, airborne pollution can also cause discoloration in your paint job. However, you can avoid long-term damage by applying this protective film on your car’s exterior before these problems even have a chance to occur.

Prevents dulling

Another benefit that comes in handy relates to preventing a vehicle’s exterior from becoming dull in appearance. The normal weathering process will often cause painted surfaces to fade over time. Car dealers recommend using explicit bra protection films to prevent this type of damage from taking place.

Protects against rock and other debris

Paint protection film also protects a car body from any possible damages caused by rocks and other forms of debris. This is one of the primary reasons the product is highly recommended for those who frequently take part in off-road adventures. The protective layer will guard your vehicle’s exterior against scratches and dings as tiny particles fly up toward its surface while you’re out on specific trails or dirt roads.

Provides UV protection

PPF has been known to provide UV protection as well. It can help prevent discoloration of car paint after extended periods when exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun.

In short, depending on how much attention you pay to changes in your PPF’s appearance and performance over time, it may last anywhere from two to five years before requiring replacement.