Paint Protection Film (PPF) A brief history
PPF is a tough, optically clear polyurethane film with elastic properties. It is fitted to any painted area requiring protection from stone chips, scratches and minor abrasions. PPF was originally known as Helicopter Tape and initially developed for helicopter blades during the Vietnam War and latterly the Gulf conflict. It protected the rotor blades from damage from dirt, grit, sand, and debris from explosions.
The film was then adapted and known as Anti-Squeak Tape and was used to stop wear and tear and squeaking between metal panels that had been bolted together. After further development OEM’s started to use it on the outside panels of vehicles and it became known as Paint Protection Film. Why does your vehicle’s paint need protecting? Due to changes in legislation, the major car manufacturers have been forced to use water-based paints on the surface of vehicles.
This has resulted in softer paint prone to stone chips. The film virtually eliminates these problems thus protecting the value and beauty of your vehicle. Remember, its only factory paint once…
Is Paint Protection Film for me?
Lots of companies will quote percentage figures regarding ‘invisibility’. We haven’t worked out a formula for that yet… but where possible we cover the panel using one piece of material, and wrap the edges out of sight. All the kits are designed to be as sympathetic as possible to the shape and design of the vehicles so any visible edges should not look out of place. Once fitted the transparent polyurethane film is virtually invisible. Having said this, if you look for it you will be able to see it, so the question should be, do I want stone chips or not?
What does it protect?
Any painted area requiring protection from stone chips, abrasion etc., can be protected. The product is pre-cut to precision computer designs and fitted to the vulnerable surfaces of your vehicle, such as the bumper, bonnet, wheel arches, headlights etc. We fit mostly pre-cut parts, but we also offer an in-house designing service and can custom fit pieces upon request.
Does the film require any special treatment or maintenance?
No special maintenance is required. The film should be washed as you would the rest of your vehicle, and we recommend a non-abrasive wax to bring out the shine of the film.
Can it be removed?
The film can be safely removed without residue leaving your vehicle looking as great as the day you bought it!
How is Paint Protection Film fitted?
Mostly the product is pre-cut to precision computer designs and fitted to the vulnerable surfaces of your vehicle, such as the bumper, bonnet, wheel arches, headlights etc. Although we fit mostly pre-cut parts from our extensive catalogue, we can also carry out custom work for specialist vehicles such as race and/or modified cars, as well as offering a full in-house templating service. Where possible, we cover the panel using one piece of material and fold the edges out of sight. Once fitted the transparent polyurethane film is virtually invisible, and will protect your vehicle for years.
Mint Condition UK is wholly independent and we are always looking to provide the best film available to our customers. As we have no tie-ins to any company we have access to all the leading market films and as such we are under no pressure whatsoever to supply any one film. In actual fact we put pressure on the suppliers to make improvements wherever possible but please be guided by our advice; it is based purely upon our expertise and experience.
Will my vehicle fade under the sun?
Although the film is UV stable it does allow penetration of UV rays, which means if the film needs to be removed any paint fade will be uniform.