Clint Allerton
Member
- Oct 30, 2013
- 39
- 13
I’ve been installing automotive paint protection products professionally since 2010, and I’m curious what other installers and detailers here think about this.
When customers research paint protection film (PPF), much of the conversation seems to center around which brand of film is best. From an installer’s perspective, though, I think the quality of the installation and the preparation beforehand can be just as important as the film itself.
Paint condition is a big one. PPF is transparent, so scratches, sanding marks, touch-up work, contamination, and other defects underneath the film don’t simply disappear. In some cases, they can become even more noticeable once the film is installed.
Then there’s the actual installation: contamination control, stretch, alignment, seams, wrapped edges where appropriate, and how the installer handles difficult curves and body lines. These details can make a significant difference in the finished appearance.
I’ve also found that setting realistic customer expectations is important. Quality PPF can be extremely difficult to notice, but I don’t like telling customers that every installation will be completely invisible. At the end of the day, we’re still applying a physical urethane film over the paint.
I personally think installer experience and proper preparation deserve just as much consideration as the brand name on the film.
I’ve put together more information about how I approach paint protection film in Columbus, Ohio for customers who want to understand the process and available protection options:
www.autodetaildoctor.com
For those of you who install PPF or work around it regularly, what do you think makes the biggest difference in the final result: film quality, preparation, installer technique, or a combination of all three?
Clint Allerton
Auto Detail Doctor
Professional Detailer & Paint Protection Installer Since 2010
When customers research paint protection film (PPF), much of the conversation seems to center around which brand of film is best. From an installer’s perspective, though, I think the quality of the installation and the preparation beforehand can be just as important as the film itself.
Paint condition is a big one. PPF is transparent, so scratches, sanding marks, touch-up work, contamination, and other defects underneath the film don’t simply disappear. In some cases, they can become even more noticeable once the film is installed.
Then there’s the actual installation: contamination control, stretch, alignment, seams, wrapped edges where appropriate, and how the installer handles difficult curves and body lines. These details can make a significant difference in the finished appearance.
I’ve also found that setting realistic customer expectations is important. Quality PPF can be extremely difficult to notice, but I don’t like telling customers that every installation will be completely invisible. At the end of the day, we’re still applying a physical urethane film over the paint.
I personally think installer experience and proper preparation deserve just as much consideration as the brand name on the film.
I’ve put together more information about how I approach paint protection film in Columbus, Ohio for customers who want to understand the process and available protection options:
Paint Protection Film
Shield your vehicle from chips and scratches with paint protection film in Columbus, Ohio. Keep your car looking brand new with PPF installation today!
www.autodetaildoctor.com
For those of you who install PPF or work around it regularly, what do you think makes the biggest difference in the final result: film quality, preparation, installer technique, or a combination of all three?
Clint Allerton
Auto Detail Doctor
Professional Detailer & Paint Protection Installer Since 2010
