Americans drive nearly 13,474 miles annually. As you start tacking more miles onto your car, you know it is inevitable that you may get the occasional rock chip or windshield crack.
What you don’t want happening is damage from transporting your car or leaving it in a parking lot for an extended period. Car wrap or paint protection films can offer a solution that protects your vehicle’s paint and saves you thousands in repairs.
Have you wondered how to find “paint protection film near me?” Before diving into how to find a qualified company, we have compiled the top six myths about paint protection film.
Keep reading our paint protection film guide, and we will debunk the most common myths for you!
1. Car Paint Protection Film Causes Underlying Damage
On the contrary, paint protection film will help prevent factory paint damage. Transport wraps can protect against:
- Rock chips
- Fluids
- Harsh weather
- UV rays
There are two risks with transporting a car, even short distances. First, you run into elements encountered on the road at high speeds, like gravel or rocks.
Second, natural elements such as wind, rain, and sun can have their unique challenges. For example, UV rays can lead to faded paint. Wraps keep your factory paint pristine.
2. Transport Film Is Difficult To Install
Unlike traditional paint protection film, transport car wraps are easy to install and remove. There are several types of paint protection film, including non-adhesive rolls.
Simple automotive masking tape can be quickly applied to vulnerable or high-risk areas of your car. Other types of transport film include:
- Collision wrap
- Track tape
- Rocker panel
- Paint boot
The best part is you don’t need to hire a professional. All you need is to purchase high-quality wraps.
3. Glue Residue Is Left Behind
The best paint protection film tips are doing your research beforehand and purchasing high-quality films. A cheaper film might leave behind glue residue that requires extra cleaning on your end.
High-quality films will include self-adhesive properties, and some even come equipped with glueless properties. Glueless transport film adheres to smooth surfaces without using sticky adhesives.
This ensures that when you remove the film, you will be ready to drive your car off the lot. Other benefits of quality glueless film wraps are exterior paint protection and excellent durability. You can use them for open or closed transport, assembly, or custom fabrication.
4. Paint Protection Film Is Expensive
Actually, paint protection films can save you money in the long term. Deep paint scratches can cost between $300 to $1,000 to repair. Even more minor repairs, like a cracked windshield, can cost between $110 to $410.
If you want ultimate protection, you may be interested in a collision film wrap. These wraps can be ideal for transport and are puncture and tear-resistant. The best part is, at ArmorDillo Surface Protection, collision film costs $39.77 for a 33″ x 100′ film.
5. Transport Film Is the Same as Paint Protection Film
Transport film has similar properties to traditional paint protection film, but the two are slightly different. First, the paint protection film cost is much higher and requires professional installation and removal.
What is paint protection film (PPF)? PPF is a thin, polyurethane membrane that adheres to factory paint and is designed to last for five to ten years. It offers vehicle protection for everyday use.
On the contrary, transport film is temporary, affordable, and easier to install. Most people use car transport film for transporting vehicles, although different masking tapes can be used in high-damage areas like bumpers or rocker panels. You don’t have to pick or choose, and you should still consider wrapping your car for transport even if it has PPF already installed.
6. Paint Protection Film Is Only Meant for Exterior Protection
Protection film can benefit more than exterior paint. You can also use wraps for floor mats.
These are usually called carpet protective covers but utilize the same concept as exterior wrapping. Adhesive floor mats protect against:
- Dirt or grime
- Mud
- Water
- Other contaminants
Floor mat adhesives are primarily used by businesses like car wash facilities or detail shops. However, they can also be utilized personally and help protect your carpet from tracked dirt or grime.
How To Find “Paint Protection Film Near Me”
How can you get started with paint protection film? First, determine what kind of film you need.
Track tape is a quick application on high-risk areas like rocker panels or fenders. It comes in smaller rolls that you can easily apply. Collision film is one of the most durable and long-lasting films you can find.
It can even be used for covering broken windows. Lastly, the glueless transport film is one of the most popular and diverse wraps. It is ideal for leaving your car for extended periods or transporting in open or enclosed semis.
Next, you need a reliable company. One of the quickest ways you can find out more about a company’s reputation is by looking at its online reviews. Other key characteristics that might be helpful in choosing a quality provider are affordable costs, multiple paint protection products, and free shipping options.
Start Protecting Your Vehicle’s Paint
Paint protection film is essential for keeping your car’s factory paint pristine. Certain products can also be used for carpets and interior protection.
At ArmorDillo Surface Protection, we specialize in several types of car wraps that you can benefit from. Whether you are transporting your car across the country or need added protection against rock chips and gravel, we have you covered.
Are you ready to find “paint protection film near me?” Check out our website for more details, or contact us with any questions regarding your vehicle’s paint protection.