I constantly get questions about paint protection film application and in this blog, I will address them to clear up misconceptions about it.
1. The Film Will Not Yellow Over Time
Based on my work and observation, down a decade or close to it, all the films I’ve seen have oxidized or yellowed up. Maybe the new films are superior but there is no proof of that so even if you do get a film applied to your vehicle, you will have to replace it eventually.
2. Film Is The Best Option For The Long Haul
Interestingly, for some customers,, depending on the vehicle cost, getting film may offer aesthetic benefits. For expensive and limited edition cars, it makes sense. A good gauge is if your last car has lots of rock chips and you don’t like how it looks, filming those specific areas might be a good idea.
3. Film Will Protect Me From All Physical Damage
The film will protect against substantial rock chip damage but the film isn’t immune to chemical damage. Hence, you can either add a coating or sealant or wax on top of the vehicle for chemical damage prevention. Additionally, the film does not protect against hard scrapes
4. I Can Get The Film On The Vehicle Whenever I Want
You should get the film on the vehicle as soon as you get it. The car will acquire rock chips over time. It might be smart to schedule an install far before you get the vehicle.
5. Custom Cuts Are Better
Normally, pre-cuts are a smarter option as they are engineered for the vehicle. Custom cuts can offer more coverage but at diminishing returns, while the risk of having the paint cut by a hand cut is not a risk worth taking. Sometimes edges are tucked with certain glues or chemicals which can damage the paint over time or can cause removal issues. It’s best to be safe than sorry. Pre-cuts are a safer bet. They also mitigate liability issues down the road.
6. Films Are Better Than Coatings
They are two different products with one providing physical protection while the coating provides some physical but mostly chemical protection. The best compromise when it comes to functionality and pricing is to cover high traffic areas(bumper/hood/fender/mirror) with film while adding a coating to the remainder of the vehicle.
7. Small Bubbles Will Not Go Away
Very small air bubbles will go away over time. Give it a few weeks to a month. Don’t freak out! The film is breathable and settles over time. New film installs always look terrible and will improve over time. Patience is the key here as heat and osmotic interchange of moisture and air will bring those bubbles down.
8. Everything Said In Forums And Groups Is Gospel
This is something that isn’t talked about. Many times we get customers who see perfected images on forums or groups with misconceptions about paint protection film installation. I have yet to see a “perfect” film install totally free of “imperfections”. You must be realistic and even show car installs can be flawed in certain ways. It’s a common tactic, sadly, in our industry to bring down someone else’s work to sell consumers on something they don’t functionally need. Be aware and play smart. Keep things simple and practical.
9. I Should Wrap My Entire Car
For a daily driver, it makes no sense to wrap the entire car. These installs can price close to the middle to ten thousand dollars for good quality installs. The best option is usually to cover high traffic areas with film while covering the rest with ceramic coating. The bare minimum, ceramic coating should be the ideal way to go.
Thanks for reading. If you have a new car, don't wait till you get at least a coating on the car. Book now!