Keeping your vehicle squeaky clean is every car fanatic’s number one priority. As cars are driven on roads and different types of terrains, dust, dirt, grime and a lot of other factors contribute to damaging the paint and its finish. Fortunately, there are some ways you can offer your vehicle some protection against these factors and keep it looking new. This is where a common debate between car sealants and paint protection films takes place. Let’s know what these options have to offer and which option you should pick.

What Is A Car Sealant?

Before we can go into the details, you must understand the basic concept surrounding car sealants. Sealants are available in many different forms nowadays, especially ceramic and glass coatings. The variety depends on the manufacturer as some also refer to coatings as sealants while others offer a completely different line of sealants.

In most cases, they are the same products sold by various manufacturers. Car sealants are a step forward when compared to polishes. The purpose of the sealant is to lock in the shine once the vehicle has been thoroughly serviced and polished.

The difference between sealants and polishes is that sealants tend to last longer than polishes and offer more shine and protection. But modern polishes also offer the same benefits, which leads customers to confusion. There are some polishes in the market today that offer both shine and protection for up to a year if the vehicle is maintained properly.

Ceramic And Glass Coatings

However, the big difference comes in when you talk about ceramic and glass coatings. These coatings are made up of different combinations of agents that bond to the vehicle’s paint and offer a layer of protection against dirt, dust, grime, and other factors.

The process of applying ceramic or glass coating is slightly different from polishing. In simple words, it is a much more thorough process. Ceramic and glass coatings are applied once the vehicle has been properly compounded and polished. In other words, polishing is a part of the application process.

While glass coatings are much less popular nowadays, ceramic coatings tend to be the most budget-friendly option. The process of applying ceramic coating takes place in multiple stages and may take an entire day or two to complete.

However, you need to keep in mind that ceramic coatings or sealants are not able to protect the vehicle against rock chips, minor scratches, and other factors. Their only purpose is to keep the shine locked.

What Is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?

PPF is the ultimate option in the world of auto detailing. It is a transparent film that is installed on a vehicle to not only keep its shine locked but also protect it from external factors such as rock chips, dirt, and dust, etc.

Modern paint protection films tend to be self-healing, meaning they can heal or repair themselves if they are scratched or receive minor damage. This makes these films a lot more expensive than other options. Plus, paint protection films should only be purchased from a trusted dealer and installed by a professional as well.

Installing a paint protection film is about many smaller steps. It begins with thoroughly washing the vehicle, removing microscopic contaminants, and applying the film in the end. One of the reasons this process is expensive is not only because of the benefits the film has to offer but also the amount of time, care, and effort it takes to install it.

A paint protection film can only be installed inside a covered booth. The booth should not be dirty or allow dirt and dust inside. Once the film has been installed, it should be allowed to cure for some time. The curing process in both cases i.e. application of sealant and films is dependent on the weather conditions.

Curing

Both sealants and PPFs tend to cure relatively quicker in warm temperatures than in cold. This means the best time to get both done is during the sunny season. In the winter, freezing temperatures, snow, and moisture can make the curing process slightly difficult. This is also true for auto window tinting Springfield. So, you should get it installed in the summer if you can.

What Are The Benefits Of Car Sealants?

Car sealants when compared to paint protection films are a lot more budget-friendly. Plus, these sealants can be applied on your own as long as you have space that is free from dirt and dust. Car sealants are readily available and offered by many different brands with varying prices.

If you are someone who has a limited budget, you can opt for car sealant to protect your vehicle from external factors. But, keep in mind that you will also need to develop proper skills and techniques when it comes to applying the sealant and also washing and drying the vehicle.

Using the right type of products is essential to the longevity of the sealants. Not every product out there is supposed to protect the sealant even if it can thoroughly remove the dirt and accumulations. This means you should only opt for products that are recommended by the manufacturer.

What Are The Benefits Of PPF?

A paint protection film is the ultimate option to protect your vehicle if you can afford it. A paint protection film provides the best of both worlds i.e. shine and protection. But, the only downside to a paint protection film is that you cannot do it on your own.

As mentioned earlier, it is a process that involves several stages and can take a few days. Plus, you will need equipment other than compounds and polishes to properly apply the film. Even if you can afford to purchase the equipment, you cannot risk experimenting with applying the film on your own as you might end up ruining it.

That’s why a paint protection film should only be installed by a professional. This way, you will also be provided a guarantee in case the film peels off shortly after installation or something else unexpected takes place.

How To Choose Between Car Sealant And PPF?

When it comes to choosing between car sealant and PFF, you should define your needs and preferences. Generally, car sealants are applied on vehicles that are slightly older while paint protection films are installed on new vehicles. If you have recently purchased a used vehicle, you will be well off by getting it sealed.

But, if the vehicle happens to be unique, expensive, or antique, you can choose to get a paint protection film installed. Plus, another factor that helps pick the right decision is the budget. You might be able to afford a paint protection film but if the vehicle itself is not that expensive, you should opt for a sealant.

On the other hand, if your vehicle is driven on motorways and traffic-congested areas daily, you might want to consider installing a paint protection film. Overall, it all depends on how much you are willing to spend and the type of protection you are looking for.

Conclusion

Both car sealants and paint protection films tend to be a great option. It all comes down to what you need and expect. Make sure that you always choose an expert for both jobs even if it costs you more money. If you go to a paint protection film installer Springfield, you will know they also provide ceramic coating, car sealants, and other options which means they have experts for everything. So, choosing experts will help your vehicle go a long way in terms of being protected and looking brand new should you decide to sell it in the future.