If you’re the owner of your dream car, chances are you’ll want to keep it in the best condition possible.
Whether it's a vintage classic or the latest supercar, your vehicle is no doubt your pride and joy and something you’ll be keen to preserve. But as any car enthusiast will know, to maintain that pristine aesthetic, you’ll need to do more than just wash and wax it regularly.
This is where paint protection film (PPF) comes in to help safeguard your vehicle against chips, scratches or weather wear. Having said that, even your PPF will have a shelf life, and once it’s passed its best, sadly its level of protection will start to wane.
So how long do PPFs typically last, and how do you know when one needs replacing? Let’s find out…
What Is A PPF?
Before we go over how long one lasts, what exactly is a PPF? Basically, it’s a durable, transparent shield that wraps around your car's exterior, guarding your paintwork against the hazards of everyday driving.
While it’s thin and flexible, the film is made from high-quality polyurethane or polymer materials, which makes it surprisingly durable.
As well as shielding your car from physical damage, a PPF also offers UV protection, preventing the paint fade and discolouration that can occur over time.
The benefits of paint protection film are numerous. Firstly, it preserves your car's paintwork, which not only keeps it looking its best but also increases its resale value by maintaining its original paintwork in pristine condition.
Secondly, PPF makes cleaning much easier as you can simply wipe away dirt and grime with a soft cloth, and your car will look as good as new.
The last benefit is peace of mind, which you’ll undoubtedly have, knowing your pride and joy is safely guarded against the hazards of the road.
How Long Does A PPF
All good things must come to an end, and sadly your PPF is no different. While it’ll start off immaculate and keep your paint well protected, after a while it’ll start to show signs of wear.
So keep an eye out for telltale indicators such as peeling edges, discolouration or a loss of transparency which can start to look yellow. These are all signs that the film is deteriorating and in need of replacement.
So when can you expect this to occur? In truth, it all depends on a range of factors, including how well you’ve looked after your PPF and the amount of strain it's been put under.
With proper care and maintenance, quality paint protection film can last for several years before requiring renewal. On the flip side, if you live in a particularly hot climate and you’ve failed to keep on top of cleaning, it may only last a year or two.
It also pays to hire a reputable PPF installation team to ensure a professional job as this will also prolong its lifespan.
If you’re keen to protect your vehicle then speak to us about our PPF service as we’ve helped hundreds of customers just like you.
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