The PPF Application Process: Protecting Your Vehicle with Precision

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Introduction to PPF Application

The general application process of Paint Protection Film (PPF) can be broken down into a few key steps. Each step is crucial to ensure the film provides optimal protection and adheres seamlessly to your vehicle.

Step 1: Wash Preparation –

Polishing and Preparing the Surface

The wash process is one of the most important steps in the process of applying PPF/Clear Bra. It is critical to get get the exterior as clean and free of dirt and debris as possible. During the wash process, we will spend extra time cleaning nooks and crannies that we plan to tuck the material in. During the wash process, we also clay the paint along with doing chemical decontamination. The end goal is surgically clean or as close to it as possible!

 

Preparing the detailed surface for PPF                                              Washing the headlight of a Ford truck                                                                     Washing the hood of a Ford truck

Step 2: Finish Preparation –

Polishing and Preparing the Surface

Once the wash prep step is finished, we then inspect the finish and take steps to further prepare it before we actually apply the film. During this process, we will address major rock caps by touching them up if you provided touch up paint. We then polish the paint on the panels that will be protected with PPF. This step helps to enhance the finish along with smoothing the finish, which helps during the installation process. Older vehicles and dark colored vehicles may require more polishing in this step. This is why we ask a lot of questions about the vehicle you want protected before we give pricing. Once we are satisfied with the finish, we then wipe the panels down that are getting protected with PPF/Clear bra with 99% isopropyl alcohol. 

Small polisher preparing surface for PPF   Porsche getting preparation for paint protection film     The preparation for paint protection film by spraying the surface of the vehicle

 

Step 3: Film Preparation

Cutting and Weeding the PPF

Now that the vehicle is ready to have film applied, it’s time to prep the actual film. Here at Carolina`s Finest Detailing, we use a mix of precise computer cut patterns and bulk install methods. If we are using patterns, we will generally modify them to try and give you the best coverage available. Once we have selected the patterns that we are using, they are cut on our plotter, then weeded out and ready for use.

   

Step 4: Film application

Applying the Film with Accuracy

Now its time to apply film. We use a mixture of soap and water to keep the film floating on the panel while we work to position it as accurately as possible. Then we use a squeegee with soapy water on top of the film to then squeegee out the mixture from under the film. This process then activates the adhesive and the film sticks to the surface. We continue this process throughout the panel until all areas are protected that you have chosen. 

 

Applying PPF meticulously to a car bumper  PPF application over the rear hatch and logo of a Mach 1 Mustang  The rear bumper of a mustang getting paint protection film settling

Step 5: Film finishing work 

Final Touches for Durability and Aesthetics

Once the film is applied and has dried, the last tedious step starts. This step is crucial for the final look and longevity of the install. The first part is ensuring all the edges are tucked properly and the tucked material is spread as best as possible to prevent any fingers or pop ups from occurring over time. During this step, trimming will also occur if necessary for a better fit. And lastly, we spend time going over every single edge and tucked area with a heat gun to lock down the film. This process is usually repeated twice to ensure the job can be released and you can have peace of mind. 

Final touches of protection installation layer with a heat gun            tucking the corners and details of a paint protection film over the hood of a vehicle

Interested in having your vehicle protected with PPF/Clear Bra? Contact Carolina’s Finest Detailing today for a free consultation and give your ride the protection it deserves with expert PPF application.