The cost of car window tinting can vary depending on a variety of choices. However, if you are thinking about tinting your car windows, this will be a helpful guide to set you on the right path.

Considerations Before You Buy

One of the considerations you must make before investing in car window tinting is where the tinting will be applied. Some people like to cover all of their windows, but others only perform the service on their windshield and front door windows. Both options have their pros and cons, but ultimately the decision will be unique to you.

Another consideration for you to make is the level of tinting you will receive. Getting blacked out windows can be illegal in some jurisdictions and you also don’t want to go so light that the effects are minimized. Settling on the right balance of dark to light can be difficult, but checking with your service provider can make the decision a lot easier.

With these considerations in mind, a typical 2-window tinting can cost around $200. For a full package, the price will rise to about $450. However, this is just for a basic package and there are better quality options available for you. A specialty 3M Crystalline Window tint starts at $600 and can go up to $1,700 depending on the number of windows that it is applied too.

Check out our tinting pricing guide for more information.

Finding the Right Company

Finding the right car window tinting company should come before any of the previous steps. It is important that you find a company with the right experience and knowledge regarding the type of window tinting you want to purchase. Plus, it is a great bonus if they provide you with a loaner vehicle while the car window tinting is applied to your vehicle.

Furthermore, there are several reputable dealers of high-quality and luxury window tinting products, and seeking out these companies can make a big difference to your purchase. Don’t trust secondhand or poor quality materials as they are likely to prematurely fail. This will leave you with a poor aesthetic finish and you will likely have to get the service done again.

Finally, if you are considering purchasing a windshield protection film, you should reconsider. This product is no longer relegated as it once was due to the exuberant cost of installation and the lack of protection it provides. As well, if your windshield is damaged with this protective film installed, the process to repair it will likely damage your windshield further and increase the cost of repair substantially.

Be sure to treat your vehicle right by contacting the experts at Calgary Paint Protection Film. You can always expect friendly and prompt service. We work around your schedule to provide maximum convenience. Keep your car looking like new, the easy way! Phone: 587-324-1993.

One of the hardest parts of owning a vehicle with a matte finish is the maintenance involved. It requires maintenance over and above that of a gloss finish, and can really detract from the aesthetics of your vehicle if not properly maintained.

Luckily, there is a new solution for your matte finish, and it takes the form of a paint protection film. The XPEL Stealth system is a unique product that was specifically designed to protect matte, flat, magno, frosted, and frozen paint colours.

Learn more about our paint protection film services.

Installed in much the same fashion as traditional paint protection films, this system is applied over a wet vehicle, and smoothed out for an even, smooth finish. This guarantees a quality product that looks beautiful and endures anything you can throw at it.

Plus, it has a variety of other benefits that include:

Benefits of the XPEL Stealth Paint Protection Film

One of the key benefits of the XPEL Stealth system is that it has the ability to self-heal. This means that if there are minor scratches or swirl marks from cleaning, the paint protection film can heal itself. All that is required is a little heat and time.

For details, see our PPF brand options in Calgary.

Secondly, the XPEL Stealth coating is easy to apply and can be made for custom applications. Two benefits make this possible. First, the design access program (DAP) that is part of the XPEL experience allows technicians to find the right pattern for your vehicle. Secondly, they can modify it to accentuate the look of your vehicle as you choose. This means you can stylize your flares, splitters, trim, headlights, or whatever else you want to finish with a great-looking matte finish.

Finally, another great benefit of the XPEL stealth system is the ease of maintenance. Rather than the expensive salves and ointments that typically are required for matte-finished cars, a simple wash is enough with this system. Plus, with its sleek, satin finish it will look great even with a little bit of mud on it.

Find Your Authorized Dealer

If you have been considering the best way to protect your satin or matte finish, there is nowhere else to look than the XPEL Stealth coating. Now, all that is left for you to do is to find an authorized dealer. Make sure they carry this brand and that they are sufficiently experienced in the installation of this system.

Next, make sure that they understand what you are expecting. For this, you should have a clear vision of what you want your vehicle to look like, and a plan to make it a reality. This will make the process go smoother for both you and your installation experts, and you will be that much closer to a beautiful satin finish with protection that just won’t quit.

Spring is one of the best times of year. The snow melts, the trees turn green again, and the days grow warmer with each passing day. However, there are also some drawbacks to this season which include: mud, road salt, dirt, and muck. This can have a detrimental effect on many things including your vehicle. Hopefully, though, you have made the right choice and put paint protective film on your car. This will help prevent your paint from being damaged or losing its lustre, but there are a few things you can do to make the paint protection film even more durable.

Regular Inspections On Your Paint Protection Film

This is the easiest task to perform yourself. Take a walk around your vehicle every so often and pay close inspection to the areas that have had the protective film applied. Do you see any minor blemishes, or has it started to peel away at the edges? Usually, this won’t be the case because of the protective film’s ability to self-heal, but over time eventually, all things will require some amount of repair.

See An Authorized Paint Protection Film Applicator

Don’t fret though! If these issues are apparent, any qualified paint protection film applicator will be happy to take a look. It may be that only a minor touchup is required, or the damage hasn’t penetrated all of the way through the film. Just bringing it into the shop should be enough for you to access the qualified professionals expertise, and they will inform you of what, if any, repairs are required.

See our detailed care instructions for the full breakdown.

Learn more about our PPF services in Calgary.

Make Regular Visits To A Calgary Paint Protection Professional

However, when paying regular attention to the finer details of your paint protective film, you should be able to notice any changes to the film layer. Usually these minor issues are a result of driving too closely behind other vehicles on the road, or staying too close to the edge of the curb lane. Both of these bring undue amounts of debris close to your vehicle, so take your time and drive safely for the benefit of yourself and the benefit of your paint protective film.

Just like you might think there are no benefits to getting paint protection film in winter, window tints have an array of myths about them too. And it is these misconceptions that deter people from investing in them, despite the fact they could be wrong. It is time to break down these myths and give you the full truth about window tinting in Calgary:

Myth 1 – There is no benefit to getting it for my car

You can explore our window tinting FAQ page for specifics.

There is this belief that window tinting in Calgary is all about the cosmetic appeal, and there is nothing else to it. Well, that’s not true. In fact, there are many benefits that come with installing window tints in your vehicle, including:

That the films that block more than 99% of UV rays, protecting you and your car’s interior.
The window blocks solar glare and reduces the need for squinting while driving.
It adds a layer of protection for your vehicle and reduces break-in attempts and;
The window tint reduces the amount of heat that builds in your car.

As you can see, there are more benefits to getting a window tint – especially a 3M window tint – than merely looking stylish and cool.

Myth 2 – It will make my vision too dark to see

All window tints come in an array of colors and shades that can work with each driver’s individual needs. But that doesn’t mean that it will impair your vision while driving. Even the darkest tints can be seen through. In many cases, it is like wearing sunglasses – you will get some shade, but it won’t make it too dark to see. In fact, as we mentioned above, it will actually reduce any glare, making it easier to drive.

Myth 3 – It will also its effectiveness over time.

Such is the technological advancements that window films are now more durable and vibrant than ever before. Take, for example, 3M window tint. It is considered the most robust and longest-lasting window tint in the market, ensuring that you can have it on your vehicle for years without any issues. More so, when you go to a paint protection film provider to get your windows tinted, you can get a warranty, meaning your vehicle is protected for as long as you use it.

Myth 4 – Window tints are too expensive

Back in the day, that might have been the case, but not anymore. Nowadays, as the benefits of window tinting in Calgary have become widely known, the prices for these tints have reduced in price. Modern window films last for decades, come with warranties, can be easily removed and replaced with a new film, highlighting the value that comes with it. Just make sure you go to a trusted professional that offers you a decent rate. Super cheap window tints are not the best investment.

Now that we are in December and winter has finally engulfed us, you have to take extra precautions with your vehicle. The exterior of your car is going to go through a lot during winter, including freezing weather, dirt, rocks and gravel, hard salt, mud and much more.

So to ensure that your vehicle is protected during the wintertime, it is a smart idea to install paint protection film in Calgary. You might be wondering: how does this help? If you keep reading this blog, you can see the advantages of getting paint protection film in Calgary this winter.

Check out our paint protection film in Calgary for more information.

4 Reasons To Get Paint Protection Film For Winter

1- It helps protect against all marks, scratches, and dents

As we mentioned above, your vehicle is going to be exposed to a lot of debris (dirt, rocks and gravel, hard salt, and mud) that can damage the paint of your vehicle. But with a thin coat of paint protection, your vehicle will be protected throughout winter against any of these external forces.

You can explore our undercoating for winter protection page for specifics.

2- Protects against temperature changes in winter

There is no doubt that your vehicle is going to go through a lot of temperature changes in winter, and a paint protection film can help with that. It will protect your paint against any changes in temperature, so it does not damage in either extreme warmth (like washing your car) or extreme cold (when we hit those -30s).

3- The paint will be as good as new in springtime

Not only is 3M paint protection film (the recommended choice for your vehicle) utterly invisible to the human eye, but when applied on your car provides full protection to the original paint. Come springtime; your vehicle will look as good as new.

4- A smart investment

It is not overly expensive to get paint protection film in Calgary. When you consider the costs of paint repairs to the exterior to your vehicle, it is a wise investment to get paint protection film. From anywhere between $300 to $800, you can ensure your vehicle is protected and that you won’t have to pay for repairs down the line.

Don’t miss out on the chance to provide your vehicle with extra protection this winter by getting paint protection film, especially 3M paint protection film. It can make a huge difference to your vehicle and ensure your car is perfect coming springtime.

Your vehicle is going to go through a lot during the winter months. From your engine to your wheels, you have to take extra precautions so that your car remains in peak condition and is safe to drive.

Part of protecting your vehicle in winter is to look after your windshield and window tinting in Calgary. Here is how you can go about protecting both during winter.

Visit our windshield protection film page to learn more.

5 Ways To Protect Your Windshield & Window Tinting in Calgary During Winter

1.Replace Any Dangers Immediately

A small little rock chip is enough to develop into a full-on crack as winter goes along. If you have any chips in your windshield, make sure that you get it repaired as soon as possible. If your window tinting film is damaged, take it to your window tinting expert to get it replaced.

2.Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

You should never mix extreme hot and cold on your windshield. Doing so can lead to your windshield cracking and damaging to the point that you need a replacement. So if your windshield is covered by ice, don’t throw boiling water on it to defrost it quicker. The best way to go about this is to let your car heat up and have the defrosters on, before scrapping off the ice when it is softer.

3.Keep Your Glass Clean

Just as you would keep your paint protection film clean, the same goes for your window tinting and windshields. Windshield wipers have to work twice as hard to clean a dirty windshield, meaning double the chance that it scratches the glass too. Keep it as clean as possible.

4.Replace Old Wiper Blades

Worn out wiper blades can end up scratching and severely damaging your windshield. Make sure that you replace your old wiper blades as soon as possible, so you don’t damage your window tint.

5.Buy A High-Quality Ice Scraper To Remove Ice

Don’t settle on cheap ice scrapers for your vehicle, as they tend to do more damage than expected. Invest a few dollars more and get an ice scraper that effectively takes off the ice, and doesn’t scratch or chip the window tinting.

These tips should help you avoid any damage on your windshield and protects your window tinting. If you suspect that a crack is happening or that your window tint is starting to suffer, take it to your best window tinting expert in Calgary for repairs.

With winter a few months away, the time is coming to look after your paint protection film. Although 3M paint protection film is a reliable and valuable film, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t protect it during the wintertime. Here is how you can go about doing it.

5 Tips To Protecting Your Paint Protection Film in Calgary During Winter

1.Wash Up Your Vehicle

While 3M paint protection film is resistant to scratches, marks, and salt, it is still imperative that you wash your car as often as possible. The more you wash it, the less chance you have of salt staying on your vehicle, developing rust.

Check out our paint protection film services for more information.

2.Wax On – Don’t Wax Off

Don’t ignore the importance of car care during winter. You should always put on a coat of wax during winter as it creates a barrier between the body of the car and the snow, ice, salt, gravel and grime. Think of it as another layer of protection for your vehicle.

For details, see our PPF care instructions.

3.Cover Up/Park It

If you are lucky enough to have a garage, make sure you always park your vehicle in it during the wintertime. Parking it in your garage will ensure that the 3M paint protection is covered from snow and salt. However, if you don’t have a garage, it is best always to cover up your vehicle. A car cover specially designed for cold weather protection will keep moisture and ice off the paint.

4.Brush Off/Scrap Off Carefully

We tend to brush and scrape off snow aggressively in the morning. But that is only going to cost more problems. Be careful with your approach, as using scrapers and hard brushes can scratch the surface of the paint. Instead, opt for a brush with soft bristles, so your paint is protected.

5.Get A Professional Check-Up

Before winter hits, you should get your paint protection film checked by a professional in the industry. Although the quality is of the highest order, it is essential to note if there are any upgrades or changes that need to be made. The professionals can help you decide if anything needs to be changed.

Using these tips will ensure that your paint protection film in Calgary will last throughout winter and come out looking brand new. Don’t risk your paint – take care of it as much as possible.

The elements will inevitably damage your car. Heat, rain, wind, dirt and ice can wear away at your paint. Exposure to UV damage, scratches, and chemicals are also damaging to the paint. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t do anything to protect your car.

In today’s age, you have the option to get a coating that gives your car a layer of protection, guaranteeing success and longevity for years to come. But what is the best type of coating out there for you? What is going to work for your vehicle?

Without question, one of the best ways to protect your vehicle’s outer layer is to apply ceramic pro coating. Here is why.

What is Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer or quartz that bonds with the paint already applied to your vehicle. While it may seem like another form of car wax due to the shine it gives your car, it’s more of a long term solution to protect the outer layer of your vehicle due to its durability. Think of it like an invisible barrier that coats the paint.

Ceramic coating helps repel water, blocks UV rays, prevents superficial scratches, and acts as a barrier against extreme heat. If you’ve just bought a new car or got a new paint job not too long ago, it may be a smart idea to get a ceramic coating job done. It will prevent trips to the body shop to buff up scratches on your car and remove the need to get a new paint job due to damage and fading.

How Much Does Ceramic Coating Cost?

But now we get to the point that a lot of people consider when it comes to their ceramic coating in Calgary. What does it cost? Unfortunately, there is no set price when it comes to ceramic coating rates, but there are several things to look for when it comes to ceramic coating.

Learn more about our view our pricing.

Firstly, head to a company that offers ceramic pro car coating in Calgary as they will provide you with multiple options. You will want to choose between liquid polymer and quartz. Quartz is the more expensive material because it does a better job of deflecting water and is more durable.

Then you have to think about how many coatings you want. The more coatings you get, the more significant layer of protection you’ll have for your paint. If you tend to park your car outside regularly, then it may be helpful to get extra layers due to prolonged exposure to the elements. However, if you tend to keep your vehicle in a garage, you’ll probably need fewer layers.

You will have to consider the make and model of your vehicle too. Some vehicles might cost more because of the design and size, as it will require more layers or more work.

Finally, you have to look at the warranty when getting ceramic pro car coating in Calgary. The warranty will ensure that the coating stays on and protects your paint. If your paint still ends up peeling or discoloration despite the coating, the company will reapply the coating for free as long as you are within the warranty time period.

Average Cost Of Ceramic Coating a Vehicle Can Vary Quite a Bit

Because of all these factors, the average cost of the ceramic car coating can vary. You can expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $3,000 depending on the package. A warranty can either add to that cost or be included with the service depending on the company.

It comes down to how you use your car. It makes a lot of sense to get a more comprehensive package if you leave your car outside and/or go on off-road trips every weekend. Think about what kind of protection you’d need to make a final decision on the level of protection you want.

See Prices

When it comes to protecting the exterior of your vehicle, car owners usually find themselves choosing between ceramic coating and paint protection film in Calgary. While both provide you with layers of protection, they are different in specific ways too.

What Is Paint Protection Film In Calgary?

Made of a transparent urethane material, paint protection film is applied to the exterior of your vehicle like a sheet. The process is simple and effective, with the film being made up of thousands of different film sheets, ensuring its protection. There are many options available including, Suntek, Xpel and 3M paint protection film that can work for your vehicle.

Visit our paint protection film services page to learn more.

What Is Ceramic Coating In Calgary?

Just like paint protection film, the ceramic coating is applied to the exterior of the vehicles. The coating bonds with the vehicle’s factory paint, establishing a layer of protection with a hydrophobic surface. The hardening of the hydrophobic layers ensures that it is harder for damage to occur to the vehicle.

How are Paint Protection Films & Ceramic Coatings Similar?

Even though they are made of different materials, both ceramic coatings and paint protection films have similar attributes.

See our PPF + ceramic coating combo for the full breakdown.

Both products are designed to protect your car’s paint for longer and to give it a layer of additional protection. At the same time, they are both reduce damage from UV exposure and any acidic contaminants.

Regardless of which product you choose, you will be adding value and protection to your vehicle. It is always a wise decision to get one or the other.

How are Paint Protection Films & Ceramic Coatings Different?

Despite the similarities, ceramic coatings and paint protection films are very different in numerous ways.

Getting ceramic coating in Calgary means getting a stronger material in terms of the hydrophobic surface it creates, while it also enhances the gloss of the vehicle. It also makes cleaning the car easier, with the clean look lasting longer than before. While these are great benefits, it does not compare to what paint protection films offer.

Paint protection films, such as 3M paint protection film, are thicker and has a composition that allows it to return to its normal if it is dented or damaged in any way. It means it can absorb the impacts of rock chips, scratches, marks and water spots, without being permanently damaged. The invisible coat of polyurethane film also ensures that the value and integrity of your vehicle lasts for years.

It’s the same old question: should I buy paint protection at a dealership or an independent shop?

How do you separate the two and know you’ve made the right decision? The differences between the two will impact your decision. Here is what you expect from each of them.

Paint Protection Films At Calgary Dealerships

Here is what you can expect from a dealership when it comes to getting paint protection film in Calgary:

For details, see our certified PPF installation in Calgary.

Check out our about Calgary PPF for more information.

Dealerships specialize in repairing and maintaining specific car brands only. If you have a car that is another model, they won’t be able to help you work on it.
Technicians are ‘factory-trained’ and can only work on specific models or vehicles. In most cases, they are in their apprenticeships and are not as trained and certified as other experts in the field.
Dealerships also use factory-made equipment and parts from the manufacturer, meaning you’ll have direct access to the factory each time.
Since dealerships work on hundreds of cars a month, they have to churn out and deliver a lot, impacting the quality of each job. It will be more about “getting it done” than having a personalized service.
You’ll most likely speak to the customer service agent, as opposed to the technician working on your vehicle.
Dealerships are franchises, which means corporate headquarters fix their services and rates. This leads to high overheads as they have to cover the costs of running not just the franchise, but the company as a whole.

Paint Protection Films At Independent Shops

Next time you take your car to get paint protection film in Calgary at an independent shop, here is what you can expect:

Independent shops might not be able to attend to a large number of cars, but they can provide a more personalized approach to each client.
Their services, such as paint protection and window tinting in Calgary, can be adapted to all cars and vehicles. You will be able to get more customizations with all your requests, from window tinting to 3M paint protection film.
As they only have to focus on themselves, that means less overhead to cover, so lower prices for clients.
You will speak directly to the technician working on your vehicle so you will know who is going to apply the process for you.
The technicians are trained to handle all types of situations and vehicles, as they are exposed to it (unlike technicians at dealerships). They’re more experienced than you think.
Independent shops still get their products from the original manufacturer, so you know the quality and reliability is still there.
They will offer you guarantees and warranties on all their workmanship.

When it comes to dealerships or independent shops for paint protection films, it is all down to what you want. However, in most cases, drivers tend to go for independent shops because of their personalized approach, reliable service, and flexibility.

Author: Calgary PPF