Differentiating Paint Protection Films and Ceramic Coating

If you are a car person who cares about the performance of your car and its physical appearance, you may have done some research into protecting and preserving its paint already.

Other than car window tinting, two common products you may have come across would be paint protection films and ceramic coatings. These products can help ensure that you get the most out of your car paint.

This article will run you through the differences between the two and choose which one is best for your car.

Understanding Paint Protection Film

Paint Protection Film is a urethane film that may be applied to any painted surface on your vehicle's exterior. In a nutshell, the automobile Paint Protection Film helps maintain the quality of your car's paint by minimizing the chance of various types of damage.

Some of these damages include:

• Rocks and road debris generate that can chip and scrape your paint
• Swirl markings that may appear during the washing process
• Chemical stains and chemical etch marks generated by acidic pollutants
• Hard water spots and stains that may form from mineral deposits
• UV ray exposure causing oxidation (fading)

Understanding Ceramic Coating

A liquid polymer is used to coat the outside surfaces of a vehicle with Ceramic Coating. Once applied, it chemically adheres to the vehicle's factory paint, creating a hydrophobic surface and a layer of protection. 

A Ceramic Coating's hydrophobic qualities make it more difficult for pollutants to adhere to your automobile's paint. 

This can help keep your car cleaner for longer and makes it easier to wash later.

It can also reduce damages caused by the following:

• Chemical stains and chemical etch marks generated by acidic pollutants
• UV ray exposure causing oxidation (fading)

Their Similarities

Both treatments are designed to keep your automobile appearing younger for longer by protecting and maintaining the paint.

Aside from this primary objective, the two devices share several performance characteristics. Both products aid in the reduction of UV and acidic contamination damage.

Finally, investing in Paint Protection Film or Ceramic Coating will increase the value of your car.

Their Differences

Paint Protection Films and Ceramic Coatings have major distinctions and serve various functions despite their similarities.

Ceramic Coatings are thinner than Paint Protection Film. Paint Protection Film also contains a chemical makeup that allows it to self-heal or return to its former shape after being indented or abraded. Paint Protection Film may absorb rock chips, minor scratches, swirl marks, and hard water spots without being irreversibly deformed because of these properties.

A Ceramic Coating lacks this capability. Despite some manufacturers' and installers' promises to the contrary, Ceramic Coating does not prevent the possibility of rock chips, scratches, swirl marks, or water stains.

On the other hand, Ceramic Coatings have certain advantages, notably in terms of the hydrophobic surface they produce. 

Although some Paint Protection Films come with a hydrophobic clear coat, they rarely function as well as a complete Ceramic Coating. 

Furthermore, by applying Ceramic Coating to your car, you may benefit from its hydrophobic features on all surfaces without having to apply film to the entire vehicle.

Which Is Best for Your Car?

So, which product is most suited for your vehicle?

The good news is it's not necessary to pick between the two. They can be used on the same car at the same time. There is no better way to shield your vehicle from harm than with a combination of Paint Protection Film and Ceramic Coating.

Conclusion

Both Paint Protection Film and Ceramic Coating offer various benefits. However, they are not the same, so it is essential to fully understand the benefits of each product before making a decision.

Instead of choosing between the two, both products may be used on the same car to maximize your car's protection.

Are you looking for paint protection films in California? Cen Cal Tinting is the most trusted auto restyling shop in the area. Get a quote today!