There’s a saying that looks aren’t everything, but when it comes to cars, they are everything. Nothing attracts people more than a well-maintained car. If your vehicle is in mint condition, it is sure to leave a positive impression on people. Also, when you have invested a fortune in your vehicle, you should make sure it should look good for years to come.
What are Popular Paint Protection Options?
It is paramount to shield and protect your car’s paint to maintain its showroom shine and gloss. There are many options available in the market for paint protection than just car wax, and teflon coatings. Paint Protection Film, also known as PPF, and ceramic coating are the other two options available.
If we talk about paint guards, the most common query raised in the market is PPF vs ceramic. & which is better. Both are the most prevalent options among automobile enthusiasts. In this blog, you’ll read about the popular paint protection options and the difference between PPF and Ceramic Coating. Keep reading this blog till the end to know which option is best for you.
What is a Paint Protection Film?
Paint protection film can also be referred to as a clear bra or PPF. PPF films are made from high-quality material thermoplastic urethane. These films give excellent protection against discolouration, scratches, and swirl marks and repel stains from the painted surface.
If a reputable and experienced detailer installs the PPF, you won’t notice that the car is PPF-protected. They come in various varieties, such as gloss, colour, textured, and matte.
It is also immune to harmful UV rays that dull the paint, and its hydrophobic property makes it easy to clean and maintain. Also, these protective films can be removed without damaging the paint job.
What is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coating is a protective liquid polymer that forms a semi-permanent bond with the vehicle’s factory paint. Silica Dioxide and Titanium are two major materials used in these coatings.
This coating is applied using a high-quality special applicator. These coatings shield your car’s paint from fading due to oxidation and maintain the original showroom finish of the vehicle’s exterior.
Their highly hydrophobic property makes it easier to wash off dirt and other unwanted stains. Ceramic coatings leave your car all glossy.
PPF vs Ceramic Coating – Decoding Differences
We’ll break down the battle between “paint protection film vs ceramic coating.” We’ll explain the differences in easy terms, helping you make the best choice for your car.
1.) Durability:
Durability refers to its ability to last over time, withstanding wear, breakage, damage, etc.
- A high-quality PPF can last from 5 to 15 years or even for a lifetime. It is always said that the post-PF installation results will greatly depend on the installer. The better the quality of the film and installer, the longer the film is going to last.
- On the other hand, if the ceramic coat is properly maintained in a timely wash, it gives 1-5 years of protection. Its quality depends on the level of hardness. A 10H Ceramic Coating is currently the best in the market.
2.) Paint Protection:
Based on the level of protection they provide, comparing PPF and ceramic coating:
A.) Resistance to Minor Scratches –
Paint Protection Films, or PPF, are much thicker than Ceramic Coatings, making them good at protecting your car from things like rocks, leaves, and bugs that fly into your car while driving. On the other hand, ceramic coating is not effective in resisting damages like minor scratches, swirl marks, etc.
B.) Hydrophobic Property –
In this case, ceramic coatings have an edge over Paint Protection Films. Ceramic coatings are highly hydrophobic, making the car easy to wash and maintain.
C.) UV Defense –
Both Paint Protection Film (PPF) and Ceramic Coating offer benefits, but they do so in different ways. PPF acts like a sunscreen for your car by physically blocking UV rays, thanks to its thick, protective layer. Ceramic Coating, on the other hand, provides a chemical layer of protection that also resists UV damage.
D.) Self-healing Ability –
Only PPF can self-heal, it will get back to its original state. Minor scratches and swirl marks will be self-healed. Meanwhile, ceramic coatings are not self-healing.
3.) Customizing Option:
With paint protection films, you have the liberty to customize your car/bike as it comes in various finishes like colour, gloss, matte, textured, and others. But, the ceramic coating will just give a glossy effect to the painted surface.
4.) Cost:
It is important to note that the cost of both Ceramic Coatings and Paint Protection Films varies based on the quality and size of the vehicle. Comparing PPF and ceramic coatings in terms of pricing, PPF is undoubtedly costlier. PPF installation requires more human resources and skilled detailers. Also, PPF gives superior protection against minor scratches as compared to Ceramic Coatings.
| Car Type | Approx cost of PPF installation | Approx cost of ceramic coating |
| Sedan | ₹88,000 | ₹22,000 |
| Hatchback | ₹75,000 | ₹20,000 |
| Sedan | ₹1,00,000 | ₹24,000 |
Who’s the Clear Winner?
If you hate even the slightest scratch on your car, you should go with paint protection film. They are worth every money spent. However, if you have budget constraints and you are okay with a glossy effect, in this case, you can consider ceramic coating. If you are still confused about ceramic coating vs PPF, you can always visit a professional detailing studio and ask for their guidance.
Paint Protection Film vs Ceramic Coating: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Paint Protection Film | Ceramic Coating |
| Durability | Last for up to 15 years | Last for 5 years |
| Protection from Scratches | Prevents minor scratches and swirl marks | Do not prevent scratches |
| Hydrophobic | Only high-quality PPFs are hydrophobic | Highly hydrophobic |
| UV Protection | Less UV protection as compared to ceramic coatings | Give more UV protection |
| Self-healing | Minor scratches and swirl marks self-heals without any supervision | Do not self-heal |
| Cost | Costlier than ceramic coating | Less expensive |
| Customization option | Give you a customization option | No customization option |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Which one is better: PPF or ceramic coating?
Answer: For some people, cars are often one-time purchases, so it is necessary to protect them. If the budget is not an issue for you, you can opt for both paint protection film and a ceramic coating. Ceramic coating over PPF works quite well together, offering the quality of both products.
Is ceramic coating better than PPF?
Answer: Both work to give your vehicle superior paint protection. But PPF has all the properties of ceramic coatings, such as UV defence, hydrophobic properties, glossy appearance, and easy maintenance. PPF has many additional benefits than ceramic coatings, ranging from scratch resistance to years of protection.
How much does PPF cost vs ceramic?
Answer: PPF installation is costlier than ceramic coating, but it is very effective in the long term. If your car gets scratched, PPF will protect the paint, and you just have to get the panel replaced. If your car’s OEM paint gets scratched, you have to get it repainted, which is going to cost you a fortune.
Do I need ceramic coating if I have PPF?
Answer: Yes, applying ceramic coating on top of PPF is beneficial. If you apply a ceramic coating over paint protection film, PPF will be prolonged and will give you long-lasting protection for years.
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