Several separate materials have to come together during manufacturing to form the material of paint protection film. When executed in perfect harmony, a high quality PPF material is born. We will start from the ground up.
This plastic PET based sheeting protects the adhesive from the environment. It is removed during installation of the film. It is similar in purpose to the backing of a vinyl sticker.
This layer is responsible for bonding the film to the vehicle’s painted surface. Most PPFs employ acrylic-based adhesives—some premium products use silicone formulations.
Adhesive quality is critical: low-grade adhesives can degrade over time, causing yellowing and edge lifting—not from the TPU itself but due to the glue layer .
This is the core protective substrate—clear, flexible, and resilient. Not all TPUs are created equal. Most high quality PPF manufactures use TPU for their film. This is responsible for acting as the physical barrier. Many different thermoplastics fall under the category of TPU. It is a common misconception that thicker TPU means more protection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A thick low purity TPU can still be brittle, and a thin high purity TPU can be extremely durable. Where PPF brands source their TPU is very important.
Different PPF manufactures utilize different topcoats on their films. A vast majority products use elastomeric polymers. During the manufacturing process this is infused into the film in liquid form. This topcoat is responsible for the instant self healing effect, meaning they reflow defects at room temperature. Alternative constructs require the assistance of heat to self heal. Some manufactures go a step above and attempt to incorporate silica polymers, to create a pre-ceramic coated film.
Finally, some film manufactures opt to have a cap sheet on the top layer of their film. This is a protective sheet that is disposable. It's main purpose is to protect the integrity of the topcoat during transportation, and handling. The cap sheet is discarded prior. to installation of ppf.
Where other shops search for the cheapest PPF material, we seek the highest quality, irregardless of cost. While 99 percent of current shops in Toronto and Vaughan have decided to go off-shore with their material, we continue to use top brands such as Hexis, Suntek, Xpel, and Stek.
Some shops have strength in ppf installations. Some shops have strength in paint correction. At Toronto Buffing, we have high proficiency in both, and can perfect your paint before protecting it.
Our small but specialized team take great pride in our film installations. Our veteran ppf installer has been performing this work since the inception of paint protection film. As a team, we are able to push the limits and provide a level of film installation that is beyond average.
While other facilities may let things slide, or give excuses to the client after the fact, we at Toronto Buffing pride ourself on high standards. When we release a vehicle, we assume that our biggest critic may one day inspect the vehicle. Our goal is to leave them with nothing to say.
In the event of any factory or installer defect on our installations, we will replace the film at no cost. We offer a mandatory 2 week follow up with our installs, during which we inspect our work. If we see an issue, we fix it, even if it is not requested.
Unlike others, we have licensed autobody technicians in house, which assist in disassembly of vehicles, in preparation of PPF installations.
Toronto Buffing minimizes the use of cheat products such as edge prep, primers, and adhesion promoters. Such products are dangerous, and though they can prevent lifting, can also cause paint to peel on removal.
Our policy is to treat your vehicle as if it is our own. The proper package and protection is always the priority. We will never provide our PPF services without the correct restoration service. Have stone chips? They must be fixed before installation. No exception is ever made. Protection is nothing without restoration.
Who determines what materials are genuinely the best? Our answer to that is father time. Many materials can be the "best" in certain departments. Some films have the best price, some films have the best short term gloss, and some films are easy to install. What we search for is for film that is high quality, and long lasting. The number one priority is to have the film look exactly how it did the day it was installed, for the maximum amount of time. Everything else does not matter when you are seeking the unequivocal best.
Hexis Bodyfence has outperformed all competitors in independent test. The film boast a lifetime warranty, and was designed and manufactured in France. Self-healing on this film last a very long time, where as competitor films die out within 1.5-2 years. It boast incredible gloss, and hydrophobic behaviours. While the material can be a little temperamental for novice installers. we have mastered use of this film. If you are looking for the best, this is it. And take that from a shop who has used other top brands through the years such as Suntek, Xpel, and Stek. What is lacking in terms of Hexis' public marketing, is made up for with the fact that the paint protection film out performs all others.
Often we have clients that want the best protection package possible on a vehicle. We suggest the following for a standard used vehicle:
3-Stage Paint Correction
Full Chip Repair
Full Body Paint Protection Film with Hexis Bodyfence
Xpel Fusion Ceramic Coating
Price for this paint protection film installation has not yet been determined, and is only offered on a case by case basis. Contact us today and find out if this film is right for you.
In this video, a fellow detail shop in the states puts 10 top film brands up to an extreme torture test. In this series, he abuses all films by scratching them, wiping with paint thinner, spray painting them, throwing eggs, severely neglecting them, and more. The results are outstanding, and Hexis Bodyfence came out on top, with Suntek Ultra Film a close second. Can you guess what two films we use at our facility?
Suntek Ultra is a high quality film that boast long term clarity, self healing, and high gloss. This paint protection film company has been around since the inception of PPF, and they are innovators in the field. Toronto Buffing has been installing Suntek Ultra PPF for 10+ years!
A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Paint Protection Film in Toronto**
If you’re a car owner in Toronto, you know how harsh the city’s roads and weather can be on your vehicle. From potholes and road salt to gravel and debris, your car’s paint is constantly under attack. That’s where **paint protection film (PPF)** comes in. This nearly invisible shield keeps your car looking new, no matter what Toronto throws at it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how paint protection film is installed by professionals at Toronto Buffing
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Vehicle Assessment
The process begins with a consultation. A professional PPF installer in Toronto will discuss your needs and inspect your vehicle. They’ll identify high-impact areas like the hood, bumper, and mirrors that are most vulnerable to damage. This step ensures a customized approach to protecting your car.
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Step 2: Thorough Cleaning
Before applying the film, your car must be spotless. The installer will wash your vehicle thoroughly, removing dirt, grime, and contaminants. In Toronto, where road salt and winter grime are common, this step is especially important. A clay bar treatment may also be used to remove embedded particles and ensure a smooth surface. During this stage, the vehicle may be disassembled (if required) to ensure all dirt is removed.
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Step 3: Paint Correction
If your car’s paint has swirl marks, scratches, or minor imperfections, the installer may perform paint correction. This involves polishing the surface to restore its shine and smoothness. For Toronto drivers, this step is a game-changer, as it ensures the paint protection film adheres perfectly and looks flawless.
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Step 4: Precision Cutting of the Film
Next, the paint protection film is cut to fit your vehicle. In Toronto, professional installers use advanced computer software to create custom templates for your car’s make and model. Alternatively, the film may be hand-cut for a perfect fit. High-quality PPF brands like XPEL, HEXIS, or SUNTEK are typically used for durability and clarity.
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Step 5: Application of the Film
Using a slip solution (a mix of water and gentle soap), the installer carefully positions the film on your car’s surface. They’ll use squeegees to remove air bubbles and excess liquid, ensuring a smooth, bubble-free finish. This step requires skill and precision, especially for curved or complex areas.
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Step 6: Stretching and Molding
For areas like bumpers or side mirrors, the installer will gently stretch and mold the film to fit the contours of your car. A heat gun is often used to make the film more pliable, allowing it to conform seamlessly to curves and edges. This step is crucial for achieving a factory-like finish.
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Step 7: Trimming and Tucking Edges
Once the film is applied, the installer will trim any excess material and tuck the edges for a clean, seamless look. This ensures the paint protection film stays in place and doesn’t peel or lift over time, even in Toronto’s extreme weather conditions.
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Step 8: Curing and Drying
After installation, the film needs time to cure and bond with your car’s paint. Depending on the weather in Toronto, this can take 24-48 hours. During this time, it’s best to avoid washing your car or exposing it to heavy rain. In certain circumstances, Toronto Buffing will request the vehicle stays for an extended period of time to ensure maximum curing (1-2 weeks).
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Step 9: Final Inspection and Care Instructions
Before returning your car, the installer will conduct a final inspection to ensure the film is flawless and free of imperfections. They’ll also provide care instructions to help you maintain the paint protection film and extend its lifespan. With proper care, your PPF can protect your car for years to come.
Step 10: Follow Up Appointment
Paint protection film can take up to 8 weeks in 15*C or higher temperatures to fully settle. At Toronto Buffing Inc. our PPF services require a mandatory 2 week follow up inspection. During this time, the installer will perform a complementary hand wash, and look over the film installations. Things that are rectified are minor lifting, bubbles that have not healed, and other finishing items. Any film that has not cured within specifications is replaced.
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Why Choose Paint Protection Film at Toronto Buffing?
Toronto’s roads are notorious for causing damage to vehicles. Paint protection film acts as an invisible barrier, shielding your car from scratches, rock chips, and environmental hazards. By following these steps, professional PPF installers in Toronto ensure your vehicle stays protected and looks its best, no matter the season.
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If you’re ready to protect your car with paint protection film in Toronto, reach out to a trusted local installer today. Your vehicle deserves the ultimate defense against the city’s toughest challenges!
We recently completed this BMW M5 PPF. It had poor precuts. We redid the job with all edges wrapped.
At Toronto Buffing Inc. we offer a limited lifetime warranty on all of our workmanship. This means in the extremely rare situation that the paint protection film fails due to a reason related to our labour, we will fix the deficient panel, remove the ppf, and replace it. A simple phone call is all that is required to resolve such issues. We stand behind our work 100 percent, and the quality of work we put out into the Greater Toronto Area matters.
Warranty is great, but not ever having to exercise your warranty is even better. We have an extremely low incidence of warranty work, due to our due diligence, rigorous prep, and follow up process. Rest assured, if issues arise, Toronto Buffing is here to help.
All materials we use at Toronto Buffing Inc. are from major, local companies such as Hexis, Suntek, Xpel, and Stek. All films carry a minimum of 10 years limited warranty against peeling, cracking, or fading. Naturally, things such as physical damage, and mistreatment are not covered. Be sure to review the Do's and Don'ts of PPF Care on this page.
If you’re searching for PPF in Vaughan or paint protection film in Toronto, you’ll notice dozens of shops offering similar promises: top-quality installs, flawless finishes, and long-term paint protection. But what most shops won’t tell you is how they rely on something called adhesion primer—a shortcut that could damage your paint over time.
At Toronto Buffing Inc., based in Maple, Ontario, we take a different approach. We install paint protection film with little to no primer, using refined techniques that prioritize long-term results and safe removability. This is one factor that distinguishes a good PPF install to a bad PPF install.
Let’s break down why that matters.
Adhesion primer is a chemical used by many PPF installers to help the film stick—especially in hard-to-wrap areas like curves, bumpers, and mirrors. While it seems helpful on the surface, it’s often used to compensate for poor surface prep or rushed installs.
The issue? Primer can bond to your clear coat, and when the film is eventually removed, it can pull up paint, leave residue, or even cause permanent damage. Typically, installations with this primer have more debris, dust, and impurities under the film. Effectively, this additional edge super glue eliminates the opportunity to lift the film during install to remove small diffiencies.
At Toronto Buffing Inc., we specialize in paint protection film installations in Vaughan, Toronto, and surrounding areas like Woodbridge, Richmond Hill, Concord, and Thornhill. Our team uses a low-primer or primer-free method backed by advanced tools, professional film handling, and precise surface preparation.
With us, you get:
Our clients come to us because they care about their vehicles—and we treat each one like our own.
If you’re investing in PPF in Vaughan or paint protection film in Toronto, the goal is to protect your paint, not gamble with it. Adhesion primer might seem like a helpful addition today, but if it causes clear coat failure during removal, it defeats the purpose entirely.
With our installs, the film can be safely removed years later without collateral damage. That’s not just good for your car—it’s good for resale value, too.
Whether you’re located in Maple, Vaughan, Toronto, or nearby areas like Richmond Hill, Woodbridge, Concord, or Thornhill, we’re here to provide expert paint protection solutions that last—and won’t cause problems later on.
We don’t cut corners with chemicals. We invest time, skill, and care into every job.
Book your PPF consultation with Toronto Buffing Inc. today. We’ll walk you through the process, explain our method, and help you protect your paint—the right way.
GM vehicles are more susceptible to paint delamination during PPF removal. No primer can be used.
A popular question we are asked at our Vaughan facility is the one above. Typically, a front end PPF installation on a brand new standard sedan can take 2-3 days to complete. Two days will allow us to install all panels, and one day as a drying period / quality control. On used vehicles, the timeline can be extended by several days, as paint correction, and chip repair need to be performed. If services such as panel refinishing are required, the timeline can be further delayed by several days.
When it comes to our most extensive paint protection film package, our Full Body PPF Package, we typically complete this project in 2 weeks at our shop at 99 Rodinea Road. This is on a brand new vehicle, requiring minimal paint correction. Complex vehicles requiring time consuming disassembly, can take longer than others. As with the front end PPF package, more through paint correction, and chip repairs, can further extend the timeline by several days.
We strive to deliver only the best, and when it comes to PPF installations, time is extremely important. Though certain items can be done parallel to save time, we ask our clients to provide us with the time, space, and discretion to perform the job correctly. Where most alternative shops will try to do the job in the fastest amount of time, we rather have the vehicle for longer, to ensure film bonds correctly. Being in our hands for extra time allows us to rectify any deficiencies with ease.
It should be noted, that a follow up for all PPF installs is required after 2 weeks. During this time, we will clean and inspect the film, and perform any final finishing required. This usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.
