How Can PPF Protect My Car During Harsh Winters?
PPF is a protective coating that can be applied to any painted surface of your car. It is typically used on high impact areas like the front bumper, fenders and hood. It can be covered with a ceramic coating afterwards for even better protection.
PPF is incredibly durable and comes with a warranty that typically lasts between five to ten years. It also has self-healing capabilities so scratches can easily be removed. At Alta Mere in Plano, Texas we’re here to help.
1. No Salt or Sand Damage
Unlike a ceramic coating, paint protection film can be applied on a vehicle with existing paint, making it more versatile than other options. It protects painted surfaces such as the hood, bumpers, fender panels, rocker panels, hood liner, paint-protecting door sills and door handle cavities, and a vehicle’s mirrors and headlights.
A quality PPF will also be able to resist UV degradation and etching from road salt, chemical contamination and even bird droppings. Premium PPF like STEK’s DYNOseries offers self-healing capabilities, and hydrophobic properties that repel water, dirt, and snow.
The best way to maintain your paint protection film is by regularly washing your car with mild soap and warm water. You should not use pressure washers or harsh chemicals as this could damage the PPF application or your vehicle’s paint.
2. No Moisture Permeation
Unlike vinyl wrap, PPF is not an opaque matte-like armor but rather see-thru plastic that allows glossy painted surfaces to shine through. Premium PPF such as the STEK DYNOseries is hydrophobic, allowing water or salt-melted snow to roll off rather than pooling on the vehicle.
This also means it’s easier to clean. And unlike older PPF products, which yellowed over time, new paint protection films are resistant to UV and oxidation.
If you’re ready to enjoy the winter without worrying about rock chips and dents on your car, contact us today for an estimate. We’ll walk you through the process, as well as maintenance tips. And if you’re looking to add even more protection, we recommend pairing PPF with a Ceramic Coating. These products work together to ensure that your car stays as pristine as possible for years to come.
3. No Scratches or Dings
Even if you don’t live in an area that gets significant snowfall, navigating the rough winter roads can be tough on your car. Whether it’s the sand or salt used for safe tire traction, or corrosive de-icing agents that are flung onto your bumpers or fenders, there is always the possibility of a scratch or ding to your paint.
PPF can stand up to these forces and temperatures, keeping your car protected all winter long. The film also protects against etching, which will keep your paint looking pristine and new.
PPF is also self-healing, so if you do happen to pick up a minor scratch during the winter driving season, it will simply disappear with time and sun exposure. This is one of the benefits that set it apart from ceramic coatings and clear bra options.
4. No Rust
PPF offers a layer of defense against the elements that can corrode metal car components. This includes rust caused by moisture permeation through small flaws in your paint. Snow that piles up on your vehicle in the winter can lift paint and expose the metal underneath, leading to rust or corrosion.
Although many substandard PPFs cracked or yellowed over time, today’s advanced films can last for a decade or more and offer self healing properties that vinyl wraps or ceramic coatings cannot match. A professional can apply a layer of PPF that will look like armor on your car.
While a full body PPF installation will guard your car against the day-to-day hassles of life, it’s important to weigh your options. Depending on your budget, you may be better off with a ceramic coat or vinyl wrap.
5. No Water Damage
Keeping PPF on your vehicle during the winter protects it from the harsh conditions that are common in cold climates. It keeps your car looking like new while saving you from costly repairs for sanding and rubbing corrosive de-icers off of the hood, rocker panels and other areas of your vehicle.
LLumar, 3M and other leading manufacturers provide high-quality PPF that is optically clear and backed by warranties. They offer a variety of options and grades to fit your specific needs. The latest films can last for a long time in bright environments and even have self-healing capabilities that cause light scratches to disappear when heated by the sun or your engine. This is a huge improvement from older PPF that typically cracked and yellowed in the sun.
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