A deep dive into paint protection film, part 2

Industry professionals agree modern-day paint protection film (PPF) is far more installer-friendly, with advancements at every level.

“In the case of STEK, our topcoat is applied as a liquid that is then cured and leveled by a blade, whereas other topcoats are applied as a laminate. This allows for superb clarity with less layers of adhesive, as well as improved stretchability,” said Michael Honn, director of marketing at STEK USA.

While former PPF products quickly faded thanks to UV damage, he says new UV-inhibiting properties in the topcoat and adhesive formulas of all major brands allow the film to not only withstand more UV before aging but also better protect the surfaces underneath from fading.

Greater protection comes at a cost, according to PPF manufacturers.

“Like most things in life, you do get what you pay for,” Honn added. “In terms of product, most majorly-established PPF brands offer a good product these days. New brands entering the space at lower prices, however, are often made with a lesser-quality material, cheaper TPU, and/or combine TPU and PVC plastics (PPF/vinyl hybrid), of which there are differing opinions about the longevity.”

He advises the same logic applies to vehicle owners considering PPF installation services. Those who choose a well-respected installer can expect to pay a higher price, but also receive a “seamless installation.”

“Proper [education] and certification are essential for achieving the best [consumer] results,” stated Javier Cruz Rivas, a HEXIS-certified installer at Mad Monkey Wrapz in Vineland, New Jersey. “Certified installers, like those certified by HEXIS, are trained to understand the materials and application techniques, ensuring a flawless finish without common issues like paint damage or dirt at the edges, which could cause lifting and reduce the longevity of the install.”

Consequently, shops willing “to do it for less” are likely to cut corners in the process, potentially resulting in serious damage during improper PPF installation and/or shoddy removal. Mike Montemurro, owner of Atlantic Pinstriping & Vehicle Wraps, recalls a customer who not only wanted a quicker turnaround than the shop lead time allowed but also sought a lower bid for the project. After taking his prized Lamborghini Tecnica to another local shop, the customer returned with tens of thousands in knife-cut paint damage — plus a subsequent headache and hefty bill to fix.

“Your reputation is everything,” he reiterated, encouraging interested graphics specialists to really consider all needs and angles before officially expanding into the paint protection category.

Paint protection film training

While minimal graphics equipment is required to get started — a plotter and monthly CORE subscription will do — Montemurro emphasizes the importance of kickstarting the opportunity on the right foot.

“Are you planning to sweep the floor and cross your fingers,” he said, or is there a willingness to invest in professional shop equipment to ensure a climate-controlled, debris and dust-free installation?

As it applies to training, Montemurro cautions against companies that certify in a day, saying it is not representative of the actual learning curve. Instead, he points to the STEK Black Label Installers Program as a gold standard across the industry.

The highly exclusive, nationwide network of 11 total installers is especially recognized for customer service, as well as craftsmanship, installation, and organization. In addition to completing the rigorous program requirements, Black Label Installers like Atlantic Pinstriping & Vehicle Wraps also have a secure business structures and proper insurance “to cover any caliber of the vehicle that needs to be worked on,” Honn explained.

Similarly, Rivas says the road to becoming a HEXIS-certified installer exceeds paying for a class and receiving a certification.

“You must attend their BODYFENCE PPF training course and complete an extensive 8-hour exam that consists of two parts: a written and practical application exam. It’s challenging, with stringent grading by certified instructors,” he explained.

Upon certification, shops are added to the certified installer network, receive leads, marketing materials, and support, plus attend exclusive industry events.

“HEXIS also offers an annual training refresh program for those who have completed their training and certification exams. This free service provides an opportunity to refine techniques, receive new tips, and stay updated on the latest materials so that your shop can continue to grow in skill and services you can provide to your customers,” Rivas said.

At 3M, the advanced installation training program extends past installation and includes problem-solving techniques to improve installation quality, efficiency, and profitability.

“Each year, new makes and models present new installation challenges. 3M training is designed to not only update alongside the market and address the most common pain points but also teach a methodology for approaching difficult installations on your own,” stated Marc Bagley, segment marketing manager in the personal auto and commercial branding and transportation division at 3M.

Streamlining extends to the administrative side as well. All 3M protective solutions and installation information are documented through the e-warranty platform and integrated with Carfax. Doing so ensures everything is recorded on a consumer’s vehicle history report.

Extensive education, training, and support aside, Montemurro says there is no substitute for life experience. Various techniques are best honed through practice and mastered over time, gifting high-caliber installers with greater intuition.

One such example is LLumar CORE — a software program that provides installation patterns to the masses. A seasoned shop like Atlantic Pinstriping & Vehicle Wraps, however, may choose to adjust or customize the patterns to better suit a task at hand, i.e., create or extend all of the wrapped edges. Montemurro admits doing so will likely result in a more challenging installation, but a well-trained eye and steady hand knows when and how to bend the rules to produce an even higher-quality finished product.

Looking ahead

Industry professionals agree the future is bright with PPF color and pattern options, especially as paint and coating costs rise are on the rise and EPA regulations continue to stress the industry at large. Pros like Honn believe PPF will continue to gain in popularity, especially with automotive paint quality diminishing alongside vehicles selling at top prices.

“This means a lot more brands will enter the market space, many under a private label, as there are only a handful of manufacturers across the world,” he explained. “We will also see a lot of developments of different colored PPF options, both good and bad. In general, developments that can make PPF easier to install and give clients more color options to choose from will drive a lot of change and growth across the industry.”

Industry innovators are optimistic, focusing on providing the same high-quality products automotive enthusiasts and installers have come to expect.