Choosing the cheapest shop to install Paint Protection Film (PPF) might seem like a cost-effective decision, but it can lead to several issues that compromise the quality and longevity of the installation. PPF is a complex business, and understanding red flags can save you from having to pay twice:
1. Quality of Materials:
- Cheaper shops might usually lower-quality PPF that doesn’t offer the same level of protection, durability, or clarity as brand name films. High-quality PPF from reputable brands like Hexis, XPEL, or Suntek provides better resistance to UV rays, chemicals, and physical damage.
- Be wary of shops using "in house brand" film, as this is 99 percent of the time off shore, low grade film.
- Unfortunately, many shops state, by default, that they use high end brands. However a vast majority of facilities sublet their paint protection film to mobile companies. The unfortunate truth is that these sublets often use low quality materials to make ends meet, and stay competitive. To protect yourself from such incidences, ensure you receive an invoice stating the brand of film used, as well as the roll ID. This type of fraud is not noticed during the initial instal, but after a few short years. It is very common in the business, but clients can rest assured that Toronto Buffing Inc. does not partake in such dishonest business.
2. Installation Expertise:
- Proper installation of PPF requires skill, precision, and experience. Cheaper shops may employ less experienced technicians who might not have the necessary training or attention to detail. Poor installation can result in bubbles, wrinkles, peeling edges, and an uneven finish. More so, an inexperienced installer may be prone to cutting the paint and causing damage. At Toronto Buffing our technicians are highly trained, and certified. They have experience installing on million dollar exotics, as well as vintage one of a kind classic cars. They understand the material very well, and understand the limitations of film.
- Cheaper shops may opt to install film in precut format, rather than professionally remove parts for a seamless installation.
3. Warranty and Support:
- Reputable installers usually offer warranties on both the film and the installation. Cheaper shops might not provide these guarantees, leaving you without recourse if something goes wrong in the future. Additionally, they may not offer the same level of customer support or follow-up services. Be weary of shops offering you warranty periods longer than they have been in business.
4. Long-Term Costs:
- While the initial cost might be lower, poor-quality installation can lead to additional expenses down the line. You might need to have the film reapplied or corrected, which can end up costing more than investing in a quality installation from the start. Normally, we see low quality paint protection film start to fail and discolour in as short as 1 year. The Toronto climate is a demanding one for PPF, and lower quality films don't hold up.
- Cheap paint protection film can be very time consuming to remove, due to poor quality of adhesives used. Paint protection film removal is usually billed hourly, and can quickly add up.
5. Aesthetic Appeal:
- A poorly installed PPF can detract from the appearance of your vehicle. High-quality installations are virtually invisible and enhance the vehicle’s look, while subpar work can be noticeable and unattractive.
6. Time and Convenience:
- Reworking a bad installation can be time-consuming and inconvenient. You might have to leave your vehicle at the shop multiple times, disrupting your schedule.
7. Lack of Paint Correction
- Cheaper installations will lack the paint correction aspect of the PPF installation. Aspects such as stone chips are usually done poorly, or missed all together.
In summary, while it might be tempting to save money upfront, investing in a reputable and experienced installer at Toronto Buffing ensures that you get the best protection, appearance, and longevity for your vehicle. It’s worth doing some research, reading reviews, and possibly paying a bit more for a high-quality installation that will protect your vehicle effectively, in the long term. Remember, those savings have to come from somewhere, and always come from corners being cut in some department.
Though Toronto Buffing may be priced slightly above market, our clients consistently choose us over those lower quality services because of our attention to detail, use of quality name brand materials, expert installation, and customer service.