When it comes to protecting the paint on your vehicle, what is the best option? Paint protection film is the go-to solution for most. But for others, it’s ceramic coating. Can the two used together? Or will it end up ruining the paint?
In this blog, we are going to explore the question ‘Can you apply ceramic coat on top of paint protection film?’
The UK automotive after market industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.
That’s why we at Car Specialist Customs are here to provide you with all the information you require to get the best car customisation possible, whilst being as informed as possible.
Paint protection film explained
Paint protection film, or PPF, is an optional accessory that you can install yourself, or via the services of an expert. It is a thin film made from vinyl, some people refer to it as a clear vehicle wrap.
As a result of this thin vinyl film, the vehicle is provided a level of protection against minor scratches, and other small objects that would otherwise lightly scratch your paint work. Furthermore, paint protection film protects the vehicle’s paint from UV rays.
Over time, UV rays can effect the paintwork of your vehicle. This is a gradual process that usually takes years, resulting in your vehicle’s paint looking dull, uneven, and washed out. This makes your vehicle looks badly maintained.
First impressions are everything, even something like paintwork can affect someone’s opinion on what a vehicle is worth. This is something to consider if you plan to sell your vehicle in the future. It is a smart idea to preserve the vehicle as much as you can, as it could help it to retain some value.
What is ceramic coating?
Ceramic coating is a tool used to help preserve the paintwork of a vehicle against UV light, some chemicals, and oxidation whilst also providing a glossier finish on the paintwork. It creates a hard layer over the paintwork to provide these benefits.
An abbreviated explanation of its application is that It is applied as a liquid, firstly onto a sponge, and applied onto the vehicle in sections. It is wiped with multiple towels in order to form a cohesive and smooth layer over the paint. Drying times vary between products.
What damages ceramic coating?
Similar to paint protection film, certain chemicals in common car cleaning washes affect the coating, which in this case can cause faint scratch marks to appear over time.
Thankfully, there are ceramic coating friendly car wash products. It is likely that some car washes will use them for you if you ask. But they can be bought online and in stores.
Can you apply ceramic coat on top of paint protection film?
Absolutely, if you have paint protection film on your vehicle, applying a ceramic coat over it will reinforce the already effective UV blocking capabilities of the paint protection film. This manifests in the form of many benefits, including…
- Your vehicle’s paintwork is even more resistant to the effect of UV rays, meaning it will look well maintained even after years of usage. (As long as it is looked after).
- It can extend the lifespan of your paint protection film, as the ceramic coating’s technology is complimentary to the surface of the paint protection film.
- A noticeable gloss effect makes the vehicle look more pristine.
- The retained aesthetics may contribute to a better value upon selling.
- Relatively easy to maintain.
- Nominal protection from scratches and scuffs.
- The surface created as a result of the combination of PPF and ceramic coat adds a level of water resistance to the vehicle. This results in less grime sticking onto the vehicle.
Can I put ceramic coating on PPF myself?
It is possible to apply ceramic coating onto paint protection film yourself, however, we only recommend this to people with professional experience in this field.
This is because, like paint protection film, correct ceramic coating application follows a meticulous process that ensures not only application, but ‘coat stealth’. Coat stealth is a term that refers to the ceramic coating when it is applied correctly.
Because ceramic coating forms a hard layer over the paint protection film, if it is not applied rigorously and in sections, overlapping sections of ceramic coating may look darker than others.
If you aren’t used to this process, you can end up making the ceramic coat unevenly applied on your vehicle. This is why we recommend you seek the service of professionals.
How much does paint protection film cost?
The cost of paint protection film varies on three factors…
- The size of your vehicle.
- The type of vehicle wrap you want.
- If you want it to be installed for you.
Understandably, elaborate custom vehicle wrap designs, or uniquely coloured wraps will likely carry a premium over a clear vehicle wrap/paint protection film.
Additionally, a larger vehicle will also contribute to the pricing, simply due to the additional resources and labour required for a larger vehicle.
What is the process of applying paint protection film?
Using established vehicle modifiers is the best way to get your vehicle wrapped. Due to their experience, and the equipment they have on hand, there is less room for error.
Car Specialist Customs holds combined years of experience in wrapping vehicles of various shapes and sizes, Our wraps have a warranty for 3 years, ensuring quality and longevity.
When we wrap your vehicle, we make sure to…
- Discuss what kind of wrap you want, and where you would like it.
- Measure the vehicle / relevant areas where the wrap will be applied.
- Clean the vehicle / relevant areas before applying
- Begin our process of application to your vehicle
- Inform you of any maintenance / dos and don’ts when it comes to the longevity of the wrap.
Where to buy and install paint protection film
Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Personalisation:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We will always go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we hope the details we shared have helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.
We hope to have answered the question ‘Can you apply ceramic coat on top of paint protection film?’ whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.
Want to get in touch? You can find us right here:
WORKSHOP:
Unit 30
Caldershaw Centre
Ings Ln
Rochdale
OL12 7LQ
OPENING TIMES:
Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM—7 PM
Thursday – Closed
Friday to Sunday – 11 AM—7 PM
TELEPHONE:
07523 971347 (Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm)
EMAIL:
info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk