Paint Protection Film Vs. Ceramic Coating: What is the Difference? Which is better for your vehicle?
Your vehicle is exposed to various elements that make it hard to keep the paint in pristine condition. Physical damage is common without protection no matter how much you care for your car. There are road chemicals, rock chips, bird droppings, acid rain, and UV damage you have to look out for.
The good news is there are many protection products on the market that can help you protect your vehicle! In this article we will be discussing ceramic coatings and paint protection film.
Paint protection film is a film that goes over the painted surface of your car’s exterior. It has been around since the 1950s, and is also commonly referred to as clear bra.
Today’s modern PPF is extremely malleable allowing for stretching and conforming to edges and curves. Paint protection film takes the scratches, dust, and damages that can be caused by flying rocks and debris as well as corrosion and road chemicals.
Here at Shade9, our Paint Protection Film also has a Self-Healing Top-Coat. This means that minor scratches and damages heal overtime when exposed to heat (like the sun).
Ceramic coatings don’t lag when it comes to benefits, they are chemically bonded to the surface making them durable as well as protective.
Ceramic coatings improve the hardiness of the paint. Therefore, your car is more resistant to minor scratches. It also makes the car resistant to chemical damage and chemical stains. Ceramic coatings also protect against harmful UV rays that cause fading and yellowing. Ceramic coated cars also appear deeper, richer, and glossier in color thus leaving a beautiful surface. The hydrophobic coating keeps the vehicle looking great between washes, and for longer periods of time.
PPF VS. Ceramic Coating
Now that we have discussed what paint protection film and ceramic coatings are, how do you choose between the two? They both have almost similar qualities, but key differences.
Protection:
The paint protection film is the best choice if your main concern is chips, scratches and such. Ceramic coatings prevent these things to some degree, but Paint Protection film is a clear winner in terms of protection.
If your main focus is hydrophobic characteristics and easy of cleaning, then ceramic coatings have no parallel. Paint protection does have a hydrophobic clear coat, but the intense beading and ability to stay clean for longer is untouched.
Aesthetics
As we said before, some people use ceramic coatings to improve the overall look of their car. Ceramic coatings make your vehicle more vibrant and shiny.
PPF can still help preserve the look of your car, though. Because of its protection, the paint takes longer to degrade, keeping its luster for a longer time.
Longevity
Paint Protection film generally needs to be removed and replaced within 5-10 years depending on manufacture. While there are ceramic coatings that last the lifetime of your vehicle.
How to Choose Between PPF and Ceramic Coating?
Wouldn’t it be great if you could have the best of both worlds? The good news is that you can! If you can’t decide between the two, you can always do both. If you need further assistance or more information about Ceramic Coatings or Paint Protection Films, don’t hesitate to call us today at Shade9.