Ceramic Coating, or PPF? What's The Best Decision For You?
One question we get asked time and again is “What’s the best protection for my vehicle?” Some detailers say “Everyone needs a ceramic coating on their car” or, “wax is the way to go” or “ppf was the best decision I made to protect my vehicle”. None of these statements are wrong. But the truth is…it’s not so black and white. In fact, the answer to this question is totally dependent on you! Variables such as your budget, what type of protection you desire, the condition of your vehicle, and even your car's color all play a role in choosing the best protection for your car. In this article, we will take a look at the advantages of both ceramic coating and ppf, and discuss which protection best suits you.
First off, let’s talk about ceramic coatings. Ceramics are by far, one of the best forms of protection you can get on your vehicle in the detailing world! However, it’s important to keep in mind that they aren’t impenetrable. Here are some advantages to ceramic coatings:
1. Long-term paint protection. Ceramic coatings are designed to last years. This is probably the main reason to buy a ceramic.
2. Unmatched gloss and depth. The shine and depth a ceramic coating give is truly unmatched by any other product. If this is important to you, then you NEED a ceramic coating.
3. Minor scratch and chemical resistance. Ceramic coatings add a layer of thickness to the paint that decreases the likelihood of the clear coat to get damaged.
4. Self-cleaning properties. Ceramic coatings have hydrophobic properties. This means the paint stays cleaner for longer due to a high surface tension that the ceramic coatings create.
5. UV protection. Ceramic coatings are one the best ways to protect your car’s clear coat from failing long term due to UV damage.
Now, it's time to discuss PPF. What is PPF? PPF stands for paint protection film. PPF is a thin, transparent layer of thermoplastic urethane that is applied to the exterior surfaces of vehicles to provide protection against various potential hazards and preserve the vehicle's paint finish. Here are some advantages to PPF:
1) Shield-like barrier. PPF guards the paint against scratches, rock chips, insect splatters, bird droppings, road debris, and other environmental contaminants that can damage or mar the appearance of the vehicle's paint. This is the biggest difference between PPF and Ceramic Coatings.
2) Reduced Maintenance. Paint protection film is an investment that yields lower maintenance costs. By repelling dirt, debris, and dust, it keeps your vehicle looking pristine. The hydrophobic surface of PPF makes cleaning effortless, as contaminants are easier to wash off than bare paint.
3) UV Damage Protection. Harmful UV rays are a leading cause of paint fading and deterioration. PPF effectively blocks sunlight and UV rays, safeguarding against fading, oxidation, and other sun-induced issues that can degrade your vehicle's appearance over time.
These are just a few advantages of both ceramic coatings and PPF. Both of these products have similarities but also differences in appearance, protection, and price. We hope this article gives you some insight into the advantages of both ceramic coatings and ppf. This information should help you make a better, more informed purchase without throwing your money at something you have no idea about!
If you have any auto detailing related questions, or want an estimate or to schedule an appointment, please feel free to call anytime!
