What Is A Self-Healing Paint Protection Film?
Self-healing paint protection film is one of the best human inventions. It is a thin polymer or polyurethane film that helps lock in the shine and protect the vehicle’s paint. Offering the best protection out there, some vehicle owners still question the truth behind self-healing paint protection films. So, let’s take a detailed look into how these paint protection films work along with the pros and cons.
How Do Self-Healing Paint Protection Films Work?
If you have recently purchased a new vehicle, you would want it to keep looking new and protect it against minor scratches and abrasions. The best way to do that is by installing a self-healing paint protection film. While searching for the best paint protection film out there, you will come across many types.
However, not every type is supposed to self-heal. It is because there is a difference in the properties. Self-healing paint protection films tend to be the most expensive type for a reason. These films possess the ability to self-heal once the vehicle is exposed to the sun.
Furthermore, self-healing paint protection film is made of thermoplastic polyurethane that possesses unique plastic properties. This elastic can regain its original shape if it is deformed due to a certain reason, allowing you to keep the vehicle looking in brand new condition.
This means that you do not have to worry about scratches, swirls, and other deformities in the paint. Once your vehicle is exposed to the sun, all the deformities will go away within a few minutes.
What Are The Benefits Of A Self-Healing Paint Protection Film?
The following are the benefits of installing a self-healing paint protection film.
Self-Healing Properties
The first benefit is obvious and that is self-healing paint protection films can heal themselves. This is due to the unique elastomeric polymers embedded in the film. These properties allow the film to return to its shape when the vehicle is exposed to the sun. It could also happen if the owner used a heat gun or warm water.
As a result, you do not have to send your vehicle for paint correction or other expensive jobs if the paint is affected due to an accident or improper washing techniques.
Longevity And Durability
The ability to self-heal also gives paint protection films extreme longevity and durability. These films are engineered to withstand external factors such as snow, ice, moisture, UV rays, etc. That said, your vehicle’s exterior is protected against harmful rays that could otherwise fade it.
However, keep in mind that a self-healing paint protection film will only last if it is properly cared for and maintained. So, maintain the paint protection film because this way, you can help make it a long-term investment.
Preserves The Appearance And Value
Every vehicle owner wants to make their vehicle look as if it just rolled out of the showroom. Although it can be a difficult goal to achieve, if you are willing to spend a few thousand dollars on self-healing paint protection film, you will be able to do that relatively easily.
Even though the main purpose of a self-healing paint protection film is to protect the paint against scratches, abrasions, etc. but the installation process requires correcting the paint. It is a thorough process of polishing and compounding the vehicle to get rid of contaminants and allow the film to properly stick to the body.
This helps bring out the shine of the paint and by installing the film, it is locked for several years to come. So, if you intend to sell the vehicle in the future, you will be assured that your vehicle will fetch a price a lot higher than the market due to its original condition.
Paint protection films preserve the external appearance of your car. If you want to extend the life of your car’s interior, getting car window tint films installed from an auto tint shop Springfield is suggested.
Customizable
While protection is one thing, self-healing paint protection films are customizable and can be tailored to different types of vehicles, dimensions, types, etc. This allows the professionals to install and protect expensive supercars that come with unique aerodynamic features.
Moreover, modern supercars are made using carbon fiber and other expensive materials. So, while these cars are rare and need maximum protection, self-healing paint protection films are the best option in the market.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Self-Healing Paint Protection Films?
There is no doubt that self-healing paint protection films offer many advantages but there are several disadvantages as well.
To begin with, paint protection films are available in many different types out there and not every type possesses the ability to self-heal. So, you need to do your research before you pick the best option.
Secondly, as mentioned earlier, self-healing paint protection films are the most expensive type out there. This is mainly due to its properties. However, rather than thinking of it as an expense, you should consider it as an investment for the long term.
Furthermore, paint protection films can only be installed by professionals. Unlike ceramic and glass coatings, paint protection films require a lot of time, skills, effort, knowledge, and proper techniques for installation. So, if you want to take your cool car that will glow more due to the PPF to your high school homecoming, your only option is to consult an expert.
Then again, it is going to cost you but will ensure that the film properly cures. Keep in mind that the lifespan of paint protection films depends on the installation. If there are bubbles or any other defects during the installation, the film will not last as long.
And finally, self-healing paint protection films offer protection up to a certain extent. If your vehicle was involved in an accident, the film will need to be removed and replaced.
How Is A Self-Healing PPF Installed?
The process of installing a self-healing paint protection film includes several steps. In the beginning, the vehicle is thoroughly washed and cleaned to remove major contaminants, dirt, dust, etc. Once the vehicle has been dried, the paint correction process begins which removes contaminants and defects in the paint not visible.
Once the paint correction is done, the paint protection film is cut according to the vehicle and placed on the body while an expert uses a solution as a lubricant to help position the film. Next, the expert uses a squeegee to remove the solution and cover the edges.
The process of installing a paint protection film takes place in a booth that is specifically designed to keep dust and dirt out. If the vehicle’s body is covered with dirt and dust, the film will not bond to the vehicle’s body.
Both the booth and the vehicle must be free of dirt, dust, and other contaminants.
And once the film has been installed, it is cured using UV rays. The curing process alone can take a few hours and is necessary to allow the film to properly bond to the body.
Conclusion
Self-healing paint protection films are a great investment. Apart from protection, you do not have to spend hours washing your vehicle every week to make it look as good as new again. However, you have to put in your research and opt for a good protective car film shop Springfield for genuine products and installation. Otherwise, you will find yourself again in the market looking for a replacement.