How to Properly Care for and Maintain Your Paint Protection Film

So, you’ve made a wise decision and invested in paint protection film for your car. Congratulations! This transparent, protective film is designed to shield your car’s paint from scratches, chips, and other types of damage, and with proper care and maintenance, it can last for years.

 

But what does proper care and maintenance of paint protection film entail? Atlantic Wraps provides a few points to help keep your film looking its best:

 

Avoid harsh chemicals

 

While the paint protection film we use is durable and resistant to damage, it’s still important to avoid harsh chemicals that could potentially damage the film. Something like brake fluid, gasoline, bleach, and other strong cleaners is a no-go zone. Instead, use gentle, pH-neutral soap and water to clean your car.

 

Avoid abrasive materials

 

As a rule of thumb, anything that’s not good for your car paint is also not good for your paint protection film. ‘What’s good for the goose is good for the gander!’

 

Like you do with your car’s paint, avoid abrasive materials on your paint protection film. The list includes things like scrub pads, brushes, and others with hard bristles or fibers that can scratch the film. Wipe away any debris and dirt using a soft microfiber towel.

 

Make an effort to Avoid pressure washing

 

The temptation to use a pressure washer to blast away the grime is sometimes irresistible. We all want to work smarter! But don’t use it on your paint protection film since the high-pressure water at close range could potentially tear through the film as well as cause it to lift or peel. If you need to pressure wash, keep a safe distance depending on your nozzle size, and pressure. Common sense is important as pressure washers have blown paint off of cars when used incorrectly!

 

Consider, a bucket of soapy water, and a soft microfiber towel, or a gentle hose will do the trick to keep your car clean and the paint protection film in the best condition.

 

Avoid waxing

 

While waxing is the bee’s knees of maintaining the shine and luster of your vehicle’s paint, it’s not necessary (or recommended) when you have paint protection film installed. The wax can build up on the film and cause it to become hazy or discolored over time. This is not what you want! Our film has a ceramic top coat and is hydrophobic from day one. Using a simple spray and wipe ceramic detailer should always keep your film easy to clean and avoid the pitfalls of traditional wax.

 

Avoid constant, prolonged parking in direct sunlight

 

While the paint protection film we use at Atlantic Wraps is designed to withstand UV rays, avoid parking in direct sunlight for extended periods (months on end). This can help prevent the film from drying out, fading, or breaking down over time.

 

Have questions or concerns about the care and maintenance of your film? Reach out to our Atlantic Wraps professionals, and we’ll be happy to provide you with any additional guidance and support.

View some of our Paint Protection Film Installations