4. Quality of the Paint Protection Film
Not all Paint Protection Films are created equal. The quality of the film you choose will significantly affect the overall cost. Higher-quality films, such as self-healing or thicker films, tend to cost more due to their advanced properties and longer lifespan. These premium films offer enhanced protection, are more resistant to discolouration, and have superior self-healing capabilities for minor scratches and swirl marks. While they come at a higher price, the added benefits and durability may justify the extra cost. A roll of paint protection film can cost $500, and in contrast, can cost $3000. You can expect the material that cost $500 to be very poor clarity, yellow or dull rapidly, inconsistent, be very difficult to remove and have no aftercare support, and in contrast, the higher priced material to rank well in all key departments. Cheaper service providers are, for the most part, installing no name brand, off-shore PPF in the GTA. The brand and quality of the paint protection film used is one of the most important factors. At Toronto Buffing, we utilize premium brands such as Stek, Suntek, and Xpel.
4.B Aspects of PPF Construct that Relate to It's Quality
A. Optical Clarity
Optical clarity is very important when it comes to PPF. A quality film will not take away from a finish on a vehicle. A balance is needed to ensure the film remains clear while still having a quality glue and quality TPU (Clear plastic). Perfect optical clarity can be reached by using very little adhesive, which comes with obvious drawbacks of delaminations. In order to achieve optimal optical clarity, a perfect balance of high quality adhesive, high quality TPU, and high quality topcoat is needed.
B. Quality Of Adhesive
Quality of adhesive used on the film is a very important factor when it comes to quality of the film. The adhesive needs to be strong, and shock proof, especially in Toronto climates. At the same token the adhesive can't be too strong, as it can make installations without distortion next to impossible. A balanced approach is needed again.
C. Ease Of Install
A film is only as good as its installer. A quality film should have forgiveness, and allow the installer an adequate work time. Installer should be able to inspect is work after some time, and be able to remove and rectify any impurities missed during initial install, with little to no work marks. Brands like Xpel, rank low on the ease of installation department. They possess a very aggressive glue, that allows the film to stay attached to the vehicle for a very long time.
D. Flexibility
A quality PPF should be flexible in order to facilitate wrapping of edges. The film should be flexible, without distorting the TPU, or damaging the adhesive. Flexibility can be achieved by offering a thinner film, or softer topcoat, which also comes with its drawbacks.
E. Quality Of Topcoat
Topcoat quality is essential for high quality films. The topcoat is what gives the film its protection from UV, antiyellowing, as well as the self healing property many clients achieve.
F. Thickness
Thickness of film is important. There are some options used by alternative facilities that are half the normal thickness of PPF. This material allows more aggressive stretching and confomring, but at a draw back, very little protection from impacts. It is important to note, that thick PPF does not mean strong PPF. There are off shore protection films that are 8 mill, but are very brittle due to low quality construction
G. Quality Of Plastic (TPU).
Quality of TPU is the most important factor when it comes to quality of film. Cheaply made films are sourced from the lowest quality TPU suppliers. These raw materials are weak, filled with impurities, and are overall low quality. It should be stressed and noted that thicker PPF does not mean better, due to this reason. A thick PPF can be created with low quality TPU, and still be very brittle. And the same is true for the opposite, a thinner film can be created with high quality TPU, and remain a tough barrier.
H. Rate Of Incidents With Factory Deficiencies
Depending on the brand of film, manufacture defects in the film can happen. You can expect big brands such as Suntek, and Stek to have minimal incidences.