Paint Protection Film Installation Guide
Providing protection from contaminants, sun damage, and road debris, paint protection film, also known as PPF, can make a huge difference in the longevity of your vehicle’s paint.Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply paint protection film without damaging your car:
STEP 1 : Prepare the tools you need in advance
Car paint protection film application must be applied with speed and accuracy to avoid blistering. This is why all the materials that you are going to use must be within arm’s reach – the film, dish washing solution, cloth mitts and auto detailing supplies needed for this project.
STEP 2 : Clean the surface of the car
Ensure the removal of all dust, bugs, tar or oil stains from your car’s exterior. This is to eliminate the possibility of debris or other unwanted objects from getting caught between the film and your car’s surface; any of these contaminants will directly affect the appearance of your project.
STEP 3 : Wet your hands with the solution
This is to prevent the powerful adhesives of the paint protection film (PPF) from sticking to your fingers. Yes, you may get rid of the gluey feeling after the application but your PPF will not – your fingerprints will remain stuck to your car’s surface for a long time.
STEP 4 : Lay out the PPF
On a clean work table, lay out the PPF, with the liner side facing you. Remove the liner and apply the solution to the exposed adhesive. You should also apply the same solution to the surface where you will install the car paint protection film.
Carefully slide the film to the area you wish to apply it to. The sliding action is to prevent air from being trapped between the film and your car’s surface.
STEP 5 : Use a spatula to expel air bubbles
Get the squeegee and use it to flatten the film. Use overlapping strokes to ensure that all the remaining solution is removed. Do you notice any bubbles? You can resolve this by pushing the squeegee rapidly and directing it towards the edges.
Wipe the surface with dry cloth mitts to smoothen it out and to remove any excess liquid.
Check your project for any sign of blistering. If there are any, use a needle or pin to puncture it.
Run the squeegee along the edges and corners for total adhesion.
Let it dry completely for a maximum drying time of 48 hours.
This is how to apply car paint protection film.
