Vehicle owners take utmost care of their cars. Most of them would even invest in car accessories to make their cars look their very best at all times. Some would also turn to car paint protection film installers to ensure the vehicle’s protection against outside elements. At the end of the day, having a car is one of the most important investments for you and your family.

The car windows are not only be installed auto window tinting for added protection. Rather, the entire car should also have some kind of protective film against the harsh effects of weather. Installing a car bodywork protection film for your vehicle is just as important, too. You can ask your local window tint shops about this.

It is the sole responsibility of the owner to maintain the vehicle’s overall quality inside and out. But the questions are these: are car protection films worth it? What are the pros and cons of installing a car protection film on your vehicle?

What are car paint protection films?

As the name suggests, a car paint protection film is specially designed to protect the car’s body. A car’s paint job is almost always exposed to harsh elements. That is why it is only reasonable to preserve its integrity by using some kind of car protection. It may also be known by different names such as “PPF”, “invisible shield” or “clear wrap”.

Normally, a car protection film is composed of several layers which include the following:

Layer 1: Clear coat

It usually has 0.5 mm thickness and the outermost layer of the film. The car protective film’s clear coat layer is usually made from elastomeric polymer. This material has the ability to revert to its original shape even if distorted or stretched multiple times. Likewise, the material also prevents dirt from creating unpleasant marks on the vehicle.

Layer 2: Polyurethane

It is lightweight and versatile like plastic, only that this type of material is damage-resistant while maintaining its original form.

Layer 3: Adhesive

This layer is the one that sticks to the car’s body and secures it into place. Back then, car protection films eventually turn yellowish over time. But manufacturers improved the material and made one that is resistant to premature oxidation and harmful UV rays. These new-and-improved adhesive layers have also become more durable and flexible.

Benefits

Car bodywork protection films offer their set of pros and cons. It is important to know these to help you decide whether to get one or not. First, are the benefits – here are some known advantages of using a car protection film:

1. Protects against outside elements and man-made errors

One of the major purposes of using a car paint protection film is to minimize scratches. As mentioned, the film itself is made from a versatile material that reverts back into its original shape. Therefore, scratches won’t be too noticeable in the film. Likewise, car protection films also help in preserving the car’s paint job and keep it good as new all the time.

2. Easy to remove

Car protection films are meant to last for years. But at some point, its adhesive will eventually loosen up and you may need to replace it. However, the concern among car owners is whether it may leave traces of adhesive on the car. Good news: it won’t. In fact, film removal is a breeze as long as done by experienced paint protection film installers.

3. Cost-saving and efficient

Instead of having your car repainted every few years, you can opt to install car protection films to maintain its overall appearance. The latter can be expensive at first. But you will realize the value it can provide over the years.

Downsides

On the other hand, car protection films may also have their disadvantages. Among these include the following:

1. Quite expensive

As mentioned, the car protection film can be quite expensive unlike using protective car wax and the like. Installation should also be done by skilled personnel. Hence, hiring one means additional expense as well. But you’ll realize its value-for-money over the years.

2. Prone to peeling and blisters

Blisters refer to air bubbles that form underneath the film and usually caused by improper installation. Premature peeling can also be caused by improper installation, so make sure to hire only professionals to do the job.

Should you have your car “filmed”?

Given the above pros and cons of having a protective film installed on your car, it will depend on your personal needs and budget. All car owners would want their vehicle to look their best every time. That is why it can be a good idea to invest and have your car installed by professional paint protection film installers in Springfield VA.