5 Paint Protection Film Myths Debunked

Elite Window Tinting & Protective Films • October 31, 2022

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As any new car owner will tell you, a new vehicle’s pristine paintwork won’t stay that way for long. Between small chips from road debris, bird droppings, and even routine trips to the carwash, your vehicle is continuously subjected to daily hazards.


So, what’s a driver to do? Paint protection film might be a good option. This transparent, strong film wraps your ride in a long-lasting bubble of protection.


However, when it comes to PPF, or clear bra, there are many misconceptions out there. To help you better understand PPF, our experienced technicians are here to bust the most common myths about this product.


 

Myth #1: PPF Is Seamless


One of the most common questions we get asked is if the owner will see seams on their car. The simple answer is, yes, PPF will leave visible seams.


Even professionally applied PPF can eventually begin to peel and loosen. To extend the life of your paint protection film, we recommend following a few aftercare best practices:


 

Myth #2: Your Car’s Paintwork Needs UV Protection


A second common misunderstanding about PPF is that many people think they need to get it installed to protect their auto paint from UV rays. In reality, your vehicle’s paintwork already has built-in UV protection. The top clear coat helps to block the sun’s rays. If this top coat is scratched, the exposed paint can become vulnerable. Paint protection film significantly helps protect your paint from these scratches. 


Myth #3: PPF Cannot Be Waxed


Many people think that you cannot wax your car after PPF application, making it tougher to maintain your vehicle. Thankfully, this isn’t true at all.


This misconception is rooted in people thinking of PPF and vinyl car wraps as one and the same. Vinyl wraps are made from thin, delicate materials that can be easily damaged by waxing.


This is not the case at all with PPF. Waxing your vehicle after installing paint protection film will actually boost its protective capabilities.


Myth #4: PPF Adhesive Will Damage Car Paint


Many car owners forgo getting PPF because they think the adhesive on the back of the film will damage their automotive paint. This couldn’t be further from the truth. PPF is specifically designed with car paint in mind. While the PPF fits your car like a glove, it will not destroy its paint. 


However, the clear bra does need to be removed by a team of professionals. If the removal is done incorrectly, it could leave a gluey residue behind.


Myth #5: All Clear Bra is the Same, So Buy the Cheapest


All films are not created equal. There are tons of paint protection film brands available on the market, including low-cost, low-quality films. If you choose to save a little money by having cheaper PPF installed on your car, it probably won’t protect it as well as the top-shelf brands.


At Elite Protective Films, we only use XPEL PPF. As a leading clear bra brand, XPEL provides unbeatable protection against scuffs, scratches, swirl marks, and acid rain. Its self-healing top coat will keep your car looking flawless for years to come.


Trust Your Car to Only the Best


If you want to protect your car’s paint, consider PPF. The technicians at Elite Protective Films have over 50 years of combined experience and have treated over 35,000 vehicles and boats. 


To learn more, contact us today by calling (971) 888-8468. We’ll keep your car’s paint in mint condition.

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