Car Paint Protection Film vs Ceramic Coating

Along with the rising popularity of PPF and vinyl wraps, modern-day era has given us one greater very compelling and thrilling manner of paint protection – ceramic coating. Even though ceramic coating and paint safety films are designed to do the same process, they are doing it in very one-of-a-kind ways. Both techniques have pros and cons, and fanatics have debated this for years. We at Pristine Detail have done countless PPF installations as well as numerous ceramic coatings and can tell you the ins and outs of both ways. So, let's begin the battle between PPF vs. ceramic coating and see which one is the best paint protection method.

1. Paint Protection Film (PPF)

The PPF is a paint protection film that includes a bodily barrier within it this is set up at the frame panels and protects the auto paint safety from dings, rock chips, minor scratches, UV rays, chemical materials, and dirt. It is very effective and offers protection and customizing potential since PPFs can be delivered in matte or satin finishes and as colored vinyl wraps with cool graphics. When applied correctly and by professional technicians like ourselves, the best products on the market can last up to ten years without peeling away or getting that ugly yellow hue. One of the significant aspects of high-end paint protection films is the self or instant-healing feature that makes those products really impressive, and even if you had a nasty rock chip that left a mark on the film, it would disappear when heat is applied. The PPFs are also durable and flexible products that can withstand light impacts and provide decent UV protection.

On the other hand, paint protection films can be expensive to install, and regardless of how good the PPF is, it can be visible to a trained eye, especially around the edges of the body panels. Although the paint protection films do not require any particular maintenance procedure, you still need to be careful when pressure washing the car since if the water delaminates the film; it can ruin the whole PPF. Also, you should avoid strong chemicals during the washing since they can affect the shine.

2. Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coating is an innovative paint protection technique based on liquid polymer with the addition of silica or titanium dioxide. It comes in small battles as a liquid applied on the car's surface and forms a protective layer. When applied, it forms a glossy finish, enhancing the car's paint job and improving the appearance with additional shine. Like PPF, the ceramic coating is designed to protect the paint from rock chips and chemical damage, which it does well. Numerous products are on the market, but the best ones can protect the car for years. Also, the success of the installation process depends on the skill, and although it can be done as a DIY project, for best results, look for professional installers like Pristine Detail. The ceramic coating's most significant advantage is that the ceramic layer is the best chemical protection ever and is super easy to wash; water just slides from the surface, while bird droppings or dirt never have the chance to stick to the paint.

However, while the ceramic coating offers some level of physical protection from rock chips, it still is no match for PPF. Simply put, heavier impacts and scratches will damage the paint underneath, which is not ideal. Also, the installation process requires longer curing times and more labor.

3. Which One To Get?

In comparing PPF and ceramic coating, it is essential to see the owner's preferences and what kind of vehicle will be the subject of paint protection. Suppose you have a daily driver, a car constantly in use, or an off-road rig that will get scratched and dinged on the trail. The PPF is the better choice since it will provide the highest protection, flexibility, and durability. In this case, you are more concentrated on protection than on some other aspects, and you need a product that will be as dependable as possible, regardless of the cost.

However, if you own a classic car with an immaculate paint job, an exotic machine you don't drive daily, or something that will benefit from a high-gloss finish and paint protection layer, then the ceramic coating is the right choice. It will still provide some level of protection but will enhance the appearance.

Conclusion

Interestingly, we have noticed a few owners who combined those methods to achieve the best car paint protection. Those guys use the PPF for highly exposed parts of the car body like the front bumper, hood, or fenders while covering the roof, trunk lid, or rear fenders in the ceramic coating, getting the best of both choices. This way, they get maximum protection from PPF and a high gloss finish for the ceramic coating. It might be more expensive than sticking with a single solution, but the advantages are massive, and no downsides exist. So, whatever you decide, you can be sure that Pristine Detail will give you perfect advice and immaculate results.