99 Rodinea Rd Unit 14, Vaughan, ON, Canada
99 Rodinea Rd Unit 14, Vaughan, ON, Canada
Toronto Buffing Inc. More Than Detailing Located in Vaughan, Ontario
PPF Curing Period – What to Expect and How to Care for Your
From the Experts @ Toronto Buffing
At Toronto Buffing, we install only the highest-quality Paint Protection Films (PPF), including Hexis Bodyfence, SunTek Ultra, STEK, and XPEL Ultimate Plus. These advanced films offer unmatched clarity, self-healing capabilities, and long-lasting protection against chips, scratches, and environmental damage.
To get the best results from your investment, proper care during the curing period is essential. Here’s everything you need to know about what happens after your vehicle leaves our shop—and what you should and shouldn’t do during the next few weeks.
What Is the PPF Curing Period?
Although your film is securely installed when you pick up your vehicle, it continues to settle and cure over time. The adhesive used to bond the film to your paint takes several weeks to fully harden and release moisture.
👉 Full cure time: up to 8 weeks
Factors such as material, weather, temperature, and the complexity of the installation affect the curing rate. In Toronto’s variable climate, most vehicles reach full cure in about 8 weeks at 15*C or warmer.
What You May Notice After Installation
Don’t worry—some minor imperfections are completely normal during this period. You may see:
- Small bubbles or pockets under the film- This is caused by water, that slowly evaporates out of the film over time. Such bubbles can be pressed down manually, or careful removed with the assistance of a syringe, during the curing period.
- Slight lifting around edges or complex contours: At our facility, we often push the limits of what is possible with PPF. When attempting to wrap such complex contours, some peel-back is expected. Areas prone to micro-friction and vibration may also experience minor lifting. During the 2 week follow up, our installers will trim back to the minimal point of where the film has been accepted and adhered.
- A “wet” look in certain areas : This is from the application process which will dissipate over time.
Your Two-Week Follow-Up Appointment
We always schedule a complimentary mandatory inspection 14 days after installation. During this visit, we check the film for any edge lift, trapped moisture, or bubbles and correct anything that didn’t fully settle.
This follow-up is a standard part of our service at Toronto Buffing—and critical for a flawless finish. Any areas that are not acceptable, or salvagable, are replaced completely.
✅ What You Should Do After PPF Installation
- Keep the vehicle dry for at least the first 72 hours. If it rains, gently blot any water with a clean microfiber towel—don’t wipe.
- Avoid washing the vehicle for 14 days. This includes hand washing, touchless washes, and pressure washing.
- Park indoors or in a shaded area whenever possible. This prevents unnecessary exposure to rain, dirt, and tree debris.
- Let the film cure in warm, dry conditions. Warm temperatures can help the adhesive set more efficiently.
- Return for your two-week inspection. This is the best time for us to catch and correct any early issues before the film fully cures.
❌ What You Shouldn’t Do During the Curing Period
- Don’t wash your car or apply any products (like wax, sealant, or ceramic coatings) for at least 2 weeks.
- Don’t use pressure washers near the film edges, even after the first couple of weeks.
- Don’t pick at bubbles or film edges. These will settle naturally, and tampering can damage the adhesive bond.
- Don’t park under trees or near sprinklers. Bird droppings, sap, and hard water stains can cause damage to uncured film.
- Don’t stress about minor defects during curing period. These are anticipated, part of the process, and are swiftly remedied during the curing period.
Final Thoughts from Toronto Buffing
At Toronto Buffing, we want your Paint Protection Film to look invisible and last for years. That’s why we only use the best materials—and provide clear guidance on caring for your vehicle post-install.
By following these instructions and coming in for your 2-week checkup, you’ll get the best performance, clarity, and protection your film can offer.
If you have questions at any point during the curing period, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help every step of the way.