What is paint protection film (PPF) and how does it work?
PPF stands for Paint Protection Film. It is a clear (or sometimes coloured) film applied to the painted parts of a car so that it takes the damage instead of the paint.
What is the film made of?
Most modern films are made of a flexible material called TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and usually have three layers:
- Top coat: very thin, and responsible for the gloss, stain resistance and the self-healing property.
- TPU base layer: the thickest part, which absorbs impacts.
- Adhesive layer: holds the film on the paint, and can later be removed without harming factory paint when the film is installed and removed correctly.
The total thickness is usually between 6 and 10 mil (1 mil = 0.0254 mm). The most common is around 7.5 to 8 mil.
What does "self-healing" mean?
Many films have a top coat that "heals" with heat. Light surface scratches, such as wash marks, disappear when the film is warmed by the sun or warm water, because the layer returns to its original shape.
But note: healing works on surface scratches only. A deep cut through the film will not disappear, and the damaged panel needs to be replaced.
What does PPF protect against?
- Small stone chips on highways.
- Light scratches, such as rubbing around doors and handles.
- Blowing sand that slowly sandblasts the paint.
- Bug splatter and bird droppings, which land on the film instead of the paint.
What doesn't it protect against?
- Accidents and heavy impacts.
- Deep, deliberate scratches.
- Paint defects that existed before installation: the film is clear and shows them as they are.
Common types
- Gloss: the most common, keeps the paint looking as it is.
- Matte / satin: turns gloss paint matte, or protects paint that is already matte.
- Coloured: changes the car's colour and protects it at the same time.
A tip before installation
Ask for the film manufacturer's name, the warranty period and what the warranty covers: yellowing, cracking, peeling and staining. Some manufacturers offer warranties of up to 10 years when the film is installed by an authorised shop.