Paint Protection Film, Clear Bra Forum
2,039 topics in this forum
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- 5 replies
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I am debating on whether or not to get a PPF. I am looking at the Suntek PPF-c and the clear guard nano. I have quotes for excellent shops for 1750 for the Suntek and 2600 for the clearguard nano. These prices are for the entire front end, whole hood and mirrors. I have seen on this forum that one should redo the PPF every 5 years or so. If this is correct then the cost per year is roughly 360/520 for the PPF. If I enjoy complete detailing my own car every 6 months and I use the dr color chip or other road rash kits then the material costs are roughly $50 per year plus my time. My question then is a PPF worth the 10x cost? I have/will track my car and have found…
Last reply by Jake, -
- 14 replies
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Hi guys. Im getting a new white Porsxhe GT4 and I was thinking about wrapping the nose. I've always had a clear bra on my car but I've never had a white car before... It will be garaged kept but driven 8,000 miles per year, washed and waxed regularly. This is a bright non metallic white. Even with the "warranty" it seems like yellowing is a given with every material on a white car. Is it a mistake to wrap a white car?
Last reply by waxworkz, -
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Hey guys, I'm needing a Victory Cross Country motorcycle kit. I'm only finding InvisiGARD having a kit for this. Anyone using this software or have a nother software with this bike paterned? I'm wanting this kit in XPEL Stealth. I can send you the film if you're not using it already. Thanks, KO
Last reply by Clear Bra Indy, -
- 20 replies
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Hi Im Looking at a Porsche cayenne in Plano/Dallas. Hard to tell from the Pictures if the installer did it correctly. Does this look computer cut or hand cut? Thanks In advance.
Last reply by waxworkz, -
- 3 replies
- 567 views
We're shutting down for the next two days. Try not to think about plastic or squeegees, drink plenty of egg nog, and enjoy some time with your friends and family!
Last reply by TINTZEUS, -
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Hi All I've managed to lightly scratch my 3M ventureshield clear bra. It's not dug into the clear bra but only the surface has a slight Mark. From experience what's the best method for removing the scratch? Thanks
Last reply by quality - Mike, -
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- 814 views
Has anyone knows about a complete kit for this awesome car? Please advise..thanks
Last reply by proform, -
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Starting business next month and am going to offer PPF. I'm gonna carry lulu auto/flat glass films. Is there that big of a learning curve? Gonna bulk roll it without a plotter. i have a small amount of experience with it over the last 5-7 years. I guess I'm just gonna use lulu PPF since Eastman acquired Suntek and everyone has praised it for workability and warranty and durability. Any thoughts?
Last reply by PoopcornPoppers, -
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Jeff you may be able to help in this, but what is the reason for the extreme amount of stretch in the f150 hood kit? I can't figure out how to install the pattern in DAP. I've just resorted to making the kit bigger, installing it and trimming the entire front edge and sides. Can xpel make a tac diagram for this? I've tried coast to coast, centre tac, I can't get it down without stretch marks and pressure points.
Last reply by Flygti32, -
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Hello My name is Cole I just signed up today! Cool site looks like a lot of info in here. I'm looking to train an employee for PPF for my Auto Reconditioning Shop. What brands are easy to work with? I Have read in a few posts that Sun Tec is an easier install. Any suggestions would be great. We currently do window tint computer cut and have now been asked to provide Clear Bra/Tint Packages to are main clients. I don't need the best film and I don't need the worst and would like to make a profit. Thanks for your input.
Last reply by XPEL Jeff, -
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- 646 views
Hi all! I was wondering which company provide mass(50+) cutting service of ppf for only a portion of a rear bumper? Thank you, Tommy
Last reply by XPEL Jeff, -
- 10 replies
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I realize that this forum is for professionals and experienced installers, but you gotta start somewhere. I just completed my 1st attempt at film application. I used a precut kit for a black Prius with 3m Scotchguard Pro. The car has 70K miles on it and was covered with road rash, chips and scratches on the hood and bumper. Far from pristine! Most of the chips were touuched up and buffed out, but plenty of bug splats remained. This was a 'practice car' so I wanted to see what it looked like on a not so perfect car. Observations: 1. It helps to have a helper (my willing wife in this case) until you get your procedure down for unrolling and laying out the film. 2. While…
Last reply by XPEL Jeff, -
- 8 replies
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What are you guys using/doing to light your work space. I've tried LED, Flourescent, and incandescent lights. ( tried different temp. on the Kelvin scale ) I have some mounted on the ceiling as well as a LED light on an adjustable stand for fenders and bumpers. I'm still having some issues seeing. I'm trying to duplicate the way I would see if I was installing outside. I would install all my samples in my work space thinking I was doing a good job, then I would take it outside and see things I didn't see inside, like the single hair or a piece of fuzz or lint.
Last reply by detailgal, -
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- 1k views
looking for some input here as to what most people are using... 26" lift - 3" clearance http://www.bestbuyautoequipment.com/specialty-car-lift-alpad6k-low-rise-pad-lift-6k-lb-p/alpad6k.htm (would this one work with all makes - corvette, ferrari, BMW, etc based on frame lifting points and adapters, seems short for some reason? This one is more of a stay put option) 48" lift - 7" clearance http://www.bestbuyautoequipment.com/auto-lift-6000lb-mid-rise-scissor-lift-p/al-mr6k-48x.htm (can be moved around in the shop as needed with the trolly) QuickJack - 17" lift - 3" clearance http://www.quickjack.com/products/bl-5000xl-quickjack-car-jack-support-system---5,…
Last reply by Tint Yoda, -
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What would be the best squeegee for installing SunTek PPF-C What brand and style would be the best and the least marring of the film for a beginer such as myself. I would appreciate any thoughts. Forgot to add. I've been using the Xpel black rubber squeegee for all my practice pieces.
Last reply by waxworkz, -
- 8 replies
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Hey guys, I have Suntek currently on my truck, have had it replaced twice and they can not get it to stick on my bumper, edges keep peeling off and looks like crap! Have had two different shops do it, and also noticed after a highway trip the rocks did a number to the film, Ive decided to replace it with 3M Scotchgard as I had that on my last truck 4 years ago and it looked as good the day I traded it in as the day it was installed, regret putting the suntek on! My question is Im looking for the "toughest" film, as sure the suntek film looks awesome, but my experience is it doesn't have the strength of my old 3M, I was at a local shop and she said if Im looking fo…
Last reply by tango2, -
- 1 reply
- 558 views
Looking for some one with over 5 years experience to teach ppf installation for 2 days in orlando fl . Will supply everything just bring your 2 hands . Wil pay $600 for 2 days . Using llumar material . private message me . Hey will throw in 2 tickets to universal studios ? Make it a vacation .
Last reply by kikeb, -
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- 699 views
Do any of you guys offer a better and best for ppf? Like a 5 year ppf & 7 year
Last reply by minty, -
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Thanks to all of those that came out to see us at SEMA this year on the show floor and the Dealer Appreciation event. Can't wait to see everyone again next year!
Last reply by pro-tect mobile, -
New to PPF 1 2 3
by detailgal- 24 replies
- 3.5k views
I've been detailing for over 20 years on a part time basis. I've watched probably all the videos on PPF installation on Youtube over the last 2 months or so. I'm interested in adding this to my detailling. I have purchased some Xpel ULTIMATE and have been practicing on my old daily driver. I can see my technique improving each time, and as I become more familiar with the film as to what I need to do to get a real nice installation. In the begining, I didn't use enough slip solution which was one of my big problems, and my samples showed it. I know with everything in life, you must first learn how to walk before you can run. My next step is to install a kit. Partial h…
Last reply by tango2, -
- 3 replies
- 994 views
I'm new to ppf and have under 10 cars under my belt. And I purchase kits in which they work pretty well. Do you veteran ppf installers recommend I stick with kits or just buy a roll off ppf and install that way.
Last reply by JJAWS, -
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This is all finished and in the DAP under PROFORM!! The hood on this is easier compared to the LX but still has some small 'humps' on the sides of the hood. Again it's not as difficult as the new LX but unfortunately isn't a flat hood! Let us know how it fits!
Last reply by PROFORM_design, -
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- 988 views
ULTIMATE SHIELD IS NOW HIRING Seeking Clear Bra Installer: Excellent work environment with a solid company established in 1995!!! Great pay based on skill and performance, Benefits ( including; paid vac/ sick, 401k profit share, health insurance, etc), and potential for advancements makes working for our company a unique and exclusive opportunity. Serious applicants only. Looking for long-term candidate that enjoys installing film and will be of value to our team and family. We're old fashioned in how we operate and hold ourselves to the highest level of workmanship for our clients. Growing Paint Protection (aka; Clear Bra)/ Window Tinting / Detailing company seeking …
Last reply by UltimateShield, -
- 2 replies
- 503 views
This is a new bodystyle and we just completed the design and it is available under PROFORM in the DAP. The upper on this vehicle is a bit more difficult than the other Lexus models but we designed it to fit as easy as possible for you guys. The new 16' GS is also undergoing a new facelift and we are hoping to have that in the new few weeks. Any questions let us know.
Last reply by Jake, -
- 5 replies
- 688 views
Just a enthusiast here that has had Xpel and Suntek installed in the DD and the garage queens. Pickup up some scraps film from my shop, as I plan to install it on my new snowblower.... Line the chute and buckets. Anyhow, recent posts suggest that film should be removed around the 5-6 year mark. I've seen what the original 3m film can do when it goes bad ;-/ I flip my cars on the 3-4 year mark, so I don't really see how they age. If I leave it on longer, am I guaranteed it will get hard, crack, etc and be a nightmare to remove. Let's presume-assume that the film does get removed around 8-10 year mark. I have commercial grade steamers I use for ~cleaning…
Last reply by PPFdistributing, -
Can anyone share their experience with this film? I haven't seen alot of comments on it. Just curious what everyone has to say.
Last reply by pro-tect mobile, -
- 2 replies
- 743 views
Anyone have any experience with clear shield pro. I'm just starting out with ppf. I've installed a few pieces and it seemed pretty durable / user friendly to install. I've never used any other ppf.
Last reply by pro-tect mobile, -
- 8 replies
- 1.4k views
getting into ppf as a add on to my tint business . Is there a decent ppf that isnt as expensive as llumar or expel . Just doing hoods mirrors door edges and top of rear bumpers . I know you pay premiums on films because its easier to work with doing bumpers . Will be giving a 3 year warranty and just doing flat areas . Any films out there will give 3 years before yellowing or deterioration that doesnt cost $5 a sq ft . Llumar is getting out of control with there prices .
Last reply by tango2, -
- 12 replies
- 2.5k views
over time, things get better typically... is trucut worth it to use daily on every make and model just like DAP, or is DAP still king? Racking up bills in the $500+ for the software when there is a cheaper option for a flat fee is tempting...but I am not sure I want to make a jump, or pay $150 to try it for a month wasting money, or if the kits are slightly off
Last reply by PaintShieldTechnology, -
I've compared both xpel ultimate and suntek side by side on the same car, same panel. The suntek film has noticeably less orange peel texture than the xpel and is also less hazy when looking under a bright spot light or direct sun. Appearance wise, its no doubt that suntek is superior. But how do the two films compare in other measures such as durability and functionality? Basically I want to know the pros/cons of both. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Last reply by PPFdistributing, -
- 2 replies
- 439 views
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Last reply by PPFdistributing, -
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Hey all, A car that we wrapped in Venture Satin some time ago was recently in an accident. The client that would like to have the damaged panels replaced. Obviously, the film is difficult to find. Does anyone have any 60" venture satin lying around their shop that they'd be willing to sell 7' of? Please email me at iain@503motoring.com or call 503-469-9821 if you have some, or know someone who might. Thanks Iain
Last reply by rosecity, -
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- 569 views
Wanted to let you guys know this new design is complete and under PROFORM in the dap! Will aslo have the new bodystyle 2016 Audi A8 in the system for you guys by Friday.
Last reply by PROFORM_design, -
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Hello Guys, I'm New to the forum and been doing PPF for a year now, I have a client looking for a 2004 Harley Davidson Fatboy pre cut kits. Does anyone know where I can find the pre-cut kits? I only found a few on savepatterns, I don't want to custom made the patterns for the bike as I don't think we will have another clients come for this bike in the near future. thanks in advance! Best Regards, Kyle
Last reply by pro-tect mobile, -
- 6 replies
- 1.4k views
what is the best material to use? I have a 5x8ft table in the shop I use for cutting vinyl, and weeding clear bra. Problem is, its painted black and i have to constantly keep wiping down the film prior to install. what material top sheet should i use?
Last reply by TintWizard, -
- 1 reply
- 711 views
What's the best Film, and why...?? Thank you
Last reply by Booms, -
- 6 replies
- 1.8k views
Just curious here do any of you charge extra for wrapping edges with ppf? I just figured out how to do it a month or so ago and it doesnt take that much longer just something that people really seem to like and from what i understand from customers is that my competetors in the area do not offer this. is it something i should looking into charging extra or just keep it as something that separates me from the rest?
Last reply by PPFdistributing, -
- 8 replies
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Hi everyone. First time post, long time lurker here.... I have been in the PPF business for around 15 yrs. I started out with 3M, tried Venture, and for the last few years have been set up with Xpel's DAP as a certified install facility. I have a local body shop that sends me all their clear bra instals. One of their customer cars had been protected with Digishield material (full bumper, part hood/fenders). The customer damaged her car and now will need the film replaced after the repairs are complete. She is asking that Digishield be used to replace the original film. I have called Digishield to get some of their film and they seemed reluctant to dea…
Last reply by BodyGuard, -
- 10 replies
- 1.7k views
One of our installers did his car with a sample roll of PPF. I won't name manny yet. A great install looked very very good. Texas heat dried it out quickly. However when people were coming into work the other morning they all said it looked like it had brown spots in it. We were like where?! We all had polarized sunglasses and started examining it and it looked like brown circles mostly by edges where "fingers on edges" were during installation. Could this be from too much alcohol? If anyone has PPF from the major manny take a look at there rides with polarized sunglasses.
Last reply by pro-tect mobile, -
does anyone know who still has a true Matte PPF out there? customer had a vehicle wrapped in matte 3M 1080 black, it had Generation 1 Xpel Stealth on it and it matched fairly well, now wrapped another vehicle in 3m matte black but the new generation 2 is more satin finish also sunteks matte film is very satin finish. any other films out there that are more a true matte? venture shield no longer makes a matte film, maybe durashield? thanks
Last reply by XPEL Jeff,
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Activity Stream
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Automotive Tint Comparison
I forgot to ask about Low Angle Haze (LAH), do any particular films have less LAH than others? Is LAH so much of a problem that it's better to avoid ceramic tint and go another kind of tint like SunTek CXP (CarbonXP) CXP -
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At What VLT% does visibility start being impacted
In the jurisdiction in which I live, we are allowed to have 35% in front and 20% in rear. I'm wondering @ what VLT% does the driver's visibility in adverse conditions like night time driving, storms, cloudy weather, fog, floods, etc., start being impacted? Front side windows: 45.00% 43.00% 42.00% 41.00% 40.00% 39.00% 38.00% 37.00% 36.00% 35.00% Rear Side Windows: 38.00% 33.00% 32.00% 31.00% 30.00% 29.00% 27.00% 25.00% 23.00% 22.00% 21.00% 20.00% Rear Window: 45.00% 43.00% 42.00% 41.00% 40.00% 39.00% 38.00% 37.00% 36.00% 35.00% 33.00% 32.00% 31.00% 30.00% 29.00% 27.00% 25.00% 23.00% 22.00% 21.00% 20.00%- Visibility
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Automotive Tint Comparison
If the only tinter providing MEP Films is a mobile tinter that uses more water than normal and I don't have a garage to tint in then would you avoid the tinter and opt for a tinter with a workshop that uses either: SunTek CIR (CeramicIR) CIR SunTek CXP (CarbonXP) CXP SunTek Evolve Solargard VTX Pro Premium Ceramic (by the way, does anyone know where the Technical Spec sheet is, I tried finding to no avail) XPEL Prime XR Black Johnson Window Films InsulatIR IR GLOBAL WINDOW FILMS QDP CERAMIC FILMS Global OZ Window Films CBXtreme Ceramic -
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Why is my film sliding around in GCC Jag V Plotter?
Your film might be sliding around in your GCC Jaguar V plotter due to several reasons. Firstly, ensure that the film is loaded correctly and securely in the plotter's rollers. Check for any debris or dirt on the rollers that could cause slippage. Additionally, ensure that the plotter's settings, such as speed and pressure, are appropriate for the type of film you're using. Using a tackier or adhesive-backed film can also help prevent sliding. Lastly, make sure the plotter's firmware and software are up to date to avoid any compatibility issues that could lead to film slipping during plotting. -
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Cracked glass
I was thinking it would be higher on the absorption.... Great info on the whole post though Tintguy -
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Automotive Tint Comparison
MEP Films distribute Llumar in Australia. I for one have been using Llumar since 1984 and have very rarely had or seen any issues with quality and that is why the brand is my go-to the majority of the time. Sun Tek have some good automotive films that I like, but other than those, I am strictly a Llumar user. BTW Eastman Chemical own both Llumar and SunTek so I imagine their film technology may be somewhat shared. -
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Better shop in Europe to buy Films and Tools?
Hi guys, Im new here and learning how to tint… I live in Europe and to find tools and tints to buy here is very difficult. I just got some tools and tint on this website: tintwrap.eu This website was the only one I could find some felt squeegee and high quality films with the best price to deliver in Europe without ripping me off. the delivery was quick, about 2 days. and the material was high quality as well. Do you guys have any other websites suggestions? Thanks -
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Paint Protection Film (PPF) is it needed or worth it?
I've never had PPF done before and never had issues with the paint on the car looking bad. I usually park in the garage and have had Kia Casa White - Solid on my Sportage since 2015 and no noticeable issues with the paintwork. The new car is Glacier White - Solid I've been told that PPF is beneficial, but very few people I know have actually opted to get it for their cars. I've been told there are many benefits such as: No need to ever wax or use sealant after the coat is applied Stops the paint fading Makes cars super easy to wash Prevents Acid Etching from animal contaminants, hard water spots, tree sap UV Rays Acid Rain (although I don't think I've ever seen acid rain) Repels Water & Grime Saves Water Will not wash off, crack or peel Non-abrasive Self-Healing Properties: repair minor surface scratches and swirl marks on their own when exposed to heat. So is this all simply marketing spin to provide another product to the market without any noticeable benefits? Does the average family car really need PPF or is this more the reserve of the show car, tuner set, car aficionado niche? Brands SystemX Australia Johnson Paint Protection 3M Cleargard Paint Protection Pro Series Film OMNI Nano-Ceramic Surface Coating 3M Scotchgard Paint Protection Film Pro Series Ceramic Coating Package Graphene Coating Package SunTek PPF OZ Paint Protection Film OZ Paint Protection Films GTechniq Ceramic Coatings Tint Haus 10H Ceramic Coating XPEL Ultimate Fusion Swissvax handmade wax range. Opticoat Pro Ceramic Pro 9H CQuartz Finest Pompanazzi Gtechniq Crystal Serum -
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Cracked glass
Follow up: Attached is the performance data for Johnson's Resi/Comm window films and if you look to the bottom you'll see DN50 has a solar absorption of 39%, which is well below the threshold of concern which is generally accepted as 50% absorption (with no shadow). With a straight line shading from the roof this does increase the risk, which is usually low for straight line shading compared to other types. I've also attached a pdf of Johnson's film-to-glass chart which is used to determine how safe a film is. The thicker the glass the higher the risk; you say 6mm tempered and 4mm is the cracked one (interior pane). The question now is what compass direction do these panels face? In the end, I'll just suggest you hook back up with the person that installed it and get his input. He had to have been comfortable suggesting that film. I still believe it's a one off cracked panel and the rest will be fine. It takes 2 seasonal cycles to know for sure. Truly your call as to whether or not to replace with something lighter such as DN60. Here's more helpful info that helps you question the glass type on the interior; is it plate or is it heat-strengthened (HS). I believe it is plate and not tempered or HS. Why? Plate glass with suffer thermal shock if the edge temperature is different than the center of the glass by 50 degrees F. Heat strengthened requires 100 degree F difference, and Tempered requires 200 degree F difference. Ryker chimed in and that stimulated further review. Good Luck with this. johnsonFilmToGlass_2021.pdf- 1
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Cracked glass
Whatever that glass is that cracked it is NOT tempered. DN 50 is pretty high solar absorption and your saying shadows too so you probably need a more reflective film.- 1
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