Types of PPF Available
In the evolving world of automotive care, Paint Protection Film (PPF), also known as Clear Bra, has become a game-changer. Manufacturers have made significant strides in enhancing the optical clarity, thickness, and longevity of PPF. At the same time, they have also developed many finishes to choose from. These finishes not only allow you to protect your ride, but add some personalization and custom touches.
Here are the common types of paint protection film/clear bra available:
Clear PPF
The most commonly used paint protection film installed is clear film. Clear PPF/Clear Bra is designed to blend in with the OEM finish for a “near invisible” finish. This type of PPF is especially beneficial for maintaining the original look of your car while offering protection. In certain situations, clear PPF/Clear Bra can be used to hide or blend in unsightly paint defects, ensuring your car always looks its best.
Matte PPF
If you’re looking to turn your OEM gloss finish to a matte finish, then matte PPF is for you. The whole car can be wrapped in matte PPF to give your ride a sleek, tactical style look. Matte PPF is also used for vehicle manufacturers that offer a factory matte finish. Matte PPF/Clear Bra is designed to blend in with these types of finishes to protect them from damage. It is critical to protect your factory matte finish as you cannot apply touch up or perform any type of scratch removal service. This type of PPF is ideal for giving your ride a sleek, tactical style look.
Gloss Black
Gloss Black PPF/Clear Bra is a great option if you want to customize or add an accent color to your finish. Popular areas that we apply gloss black PPF to are hood, roof, trunk lids, and rocker panels. Gloss black PPF/Clear Bra is also a popular option when doing a full body wrap on an OEM gloss black car or as a color change option. We also use gloss black PPF/Clear Bra here at Carolinas Finest Detailing to protect OEM gloss black panels that are paint damaged.
We applied gloss black PPF/Clear Bra to the roof of this Audi R8 for a custom touch:
Matte Black
Like its gloss black counterpart; matte black PPF is a great option if you want to customize or add an accent color to your finish. Popular areas that we apply this finish of PPF to are the hood, roof, trunk lids, and rocker panels. It can also be a popular option when doing a full body wrap in lieu of vinyl as this thicker material will stand up better to rock chips and road debris.
Tinted/Smoke
Tinted or smoked PPF can be a great option to add some customization to your headlights, taillights, or trim. This type of PPF offers a unique way to customize while still maintaining the integrity and function of the vehicle parts it’s applied to. Here is a Lexus badge that we applied smoked PPF to as an accent:
Emerging Trends: Carbon Fiber and Colored PPF
The industry is continuously innovating, with finishes like carbon fiber and various colored PPFs entering the market. These options provide an exciting avenue for personalization, allowing car enthusiasts to imbue their vehicles with unique characteristics while ensuring protection from the elements and everyday wear and tear. Our offerings available via STEK showcase the breadth of options available for customization and protection.
PPF offers a versatile and effective way to protect and personalize your vehicle. Each type of film comes with its own set of characteristics, benefits, and maintenance requirements. Understanding these will help you make an informed choice about which PPF is best suited for your vehicle’s needs and your personal style.
If you’re looking to add some custom touches to your ride with the added benefit of protection, contact us at Carolinas Finest Detailing today. Let us help you find the perfect PPF solution that balances aesthetics with durability.