3M paint protection film Archives - Calgary Paint Protection Film

When you have a beautiful vehicle, protecting it becomes a serious priority. More than that, it almost becomes a duty. A duty to your prestige and style, of course, but also a duty to the manufacturer of the automobile. Protecting their hard work and ensuring your vehicle looks like it just came off the lot is rewarding and enjoyable.

Plus, there are lots of ways to protect your car. Specialty cleaning products, seat covers, after-market modifications for durability and much more are available to make the most out of your vehicle. Among these excellent offerings is an established and fantastic protection product, namely, paint protection film.

Why are we talking about paint protection film and protecting your vehicle? Because we are currently in the midst of the most dangerous season for vehicles; the winter months. During these months, salt, rocks and other road debris become numerous and can cause significant damage to your vehicle just driving around.

Though, it isn’t only the flying debris that poses a threat. No, there is also the road itself. When roads get icy, they get slippery. This can increase the likelihood of your vehicle skidding or sliding, which may lead to disastrous consequences and body damage. With all of these hazards potentially affecting your vehicle, it begins to make sense why so many car protection products exist.

Isn’t Paint Protection Film Just for the Hood of Vehicles?

This is a common misconception with the paint protection film. Sure, it acts as a durable and steadfast defence on the hoods of vehicles, but there are many other places on the exterior of your vehicle where it may provide protection—for example, the accents and edges of your doors. With the right application of paint protection film in these locations, those stubborn chips and localized rust spots can become a thing of the past.

In fact, you can cover the entire front portion of your vehicle in a protective film. If you have a custom paint job or just care about your vehicle, this can be the best option available. For a full list of your options, contact us today!

There can be shortcuts when it comes to protecting your vehicle and ensuring you have the right defence for all scenarios. This is especially true in the winter months when potential hazards skyrocket and your vehicle is most at risk of developing exterior damage.

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

With so many paint protection films on the market today, it can be confusing to know what’s going on. 3M, Xpel, Suntek STEK, etc. What makes them different? If at all? The answers may surprise you. Here is a deeper look at the paint protection films available.

2 sub-types of PPF from each manufacturer

10 Year Warranty, Self-healing, Colour-Stable PPF

These are the high end paint protection films. Each major film brand has a variant of this technology. All built around the same theory. The following 4 sub-types are the leading brands in the western world as of 2020.

3M Pro Series Paint Protection Film Gen 5.0
Xpel Ultimate Plus
STEK Dynoshield
Suntek Ultra

5 Year Warranty PPF films with no top coat

These films are substantially cheaper, but have a few drawbacks. With no self-healing top coat, they quickly accumulate swirl marking, scratches and general wear and tear, leading to a dulling of the film over time, and a generally beat up appearance. Because these films have no top coats, they are all prone to discolouring and yellowing over time. These films are indicated only for short term vehicle ownership under 5 years. Also, as these films look quite good after a fresh installation, they are routinely used to bait and switch unsuspecting customers, so do your due diligence and know what you are buying. Here are the leading 5 year warranty films in the western world as of 2020:

3M 946 Series
Xpel 9300 Series
Suntek PPF-C
STEK Lite
Avery
Premium Shield

So which brand is the best after all?

All 4 leading manufacturers, 3M, Xpel, Suntek, STEK are making good quality products, and generally offer the same two sub-types. We believe the 10 year warranty products such as 3M Pro Series Gen 5.0, or Xpel Ultimate+ to be the better options over the 5 year materials, unless you only intend to keep your vehicle a maximum 5 years. The 10 year warranty products are the thickest paint protection films available fin the world, and they provide an unmatched level of durability and protection for even the most rigorous jobs and applications. Take advantage of the edge seal technology employed by Calgary PPF to get lasting protection that just won’t quit.

Get Started with Self-Healing 3M Pro Series Paint Protection Film Today!

The paint protection film of your dreams awaits. Contact Calgary PPF today to gain the benefits of 3M’s great products.

It is easy to love our vehicles. They provide us with transportation, storage space and, ultimately, access to a better quality of life. It makes sense to spoil them as a result. Spoiling your vehicle doesn’t necessarily mean literally adding a spoiler to the back, but it certainly can refer to this action.

Instead, when we talk about spoiling our vehicles, we are referencing all of the add-ons, cleaning and maintenance we perform to ensure its optimal condition and performance. A good example of this is 3M paint protection film, which keeps the exterior of your vehicle looking new while also providing a critical layer of protection. Detailing is another method of spoiling our transportation solutions.

Below, we have a list of some of the best products for detailing your vehicle. Although it doesn’t include all of your favourite brands and products, this list does include the items you need to get into every fibre of your vehicle and give it the cleansing it truly deserves.

Detailing Items for Your Vehicle

Microfibre Wash Mitts

In the past, mitts like these were used to paint surfaces. However, microfibre versions are a relatively recent invention, though they are no less fantastic for their newness. With these, you can clean every part of your vehicle without struggling to keep your cloth or wash rag clean. Plus, they are machine-washable, making their clean up easy and straightforward.

Clay Bars

Although the quality of clay bars can vary, when you find a brand or product you really enjoy, nothing is like it. For keeping the exteriors of your vehicle in mint condition, sparkling and beautiful, use clay bars. They will not disappoint, and they are ideal for 3M paint protection film cleaning also!

Elbow Grease

Our final item is you! Your vehicle deserves a pampering that reflects its valuable service. Only you can provide this level of dedication and cleanliness, and the appreciation that your hard-earned efforts will glean is also your own. A reciprocal cycle like this is often hard to come by!

Yout Best Car Detailing Solution

Of course, doing the work of your car detailing can be a fun and rewarding experience in its own right. However, sometimes we simply do not have the time to get into all of the nooks and crevices of our vehicles. During these situations, consider taking it to a professional detailing service instead. This can save you time and money when done correctly.

Cars and rust don’t mix. It’s why people invest so much money in rustproofing their vehicles.

But what is undercoating & rust proofing? What causes a car to rust, and how do you protect yours against it?

This blog has the answers for you.

What Causes A Car To Rust?

In basic terms, it occurs when oxygen and iron come in contact and begin an oxidation process, which develops into rust.

External factors, such as water, snow and humidity, can speed this process up, which is why rust tends to occur more during the wintertime. Other elements, such as road dirt, grime, road salt, and other corrosives, can wear down the waterproof barrier and contribute to the rust’s growth.

Thankfully there are ways to protect your automobile.

Do I Need To Rust Proof My Car?

Absolutely you should consider it. While car paint and car films will protect the vehicle from any damage occurring (including rust), an accident or dent can result in rust developing. The same applies if you have a ceramic coating or 3M paint protection film.

There is also the factor that we live in Alberta, and it’s a province where winters can be brutal, and road salt is practically considered a condiment.

The only time it is not valuable to invest in undercoating or rustproofing is when your vehicle is too old, and therefore not worth the expense, or if the car is already damaged by rust (as the cost itself for the auto body repairs can be expensive).

How Do I Protect My Car from Rust?

There are several different options for drivers, depending on their needs:

Wash & Wax Every Two Weeks

The more often you wash your vehicle, the less likely it will develop the wetness that can create rust. Often people get this done once a month, which gives rust plenty of time to get into the vehicle. It’s best to aim for every two weeks.

Invest in Paint Protection Film, Undercoating and Rust Proofing

Just like a 3M paint protection film, the 3M undercoating works to a similar effect. It prevents rust and corrosion of the vehicle undercarriage, guaranteeing your vehicle is protected during the winter months.

Invest in 3M Undercoating, Rust Proofing & Paint Protection

3M Rust Proofing protects your vehicle panels and wheel wells from rusting better than any other coating on the market today. It is the best piece of protection that you can get for your vehicle.

Drive Carefully & Safely

Avoiding the following can reduce your chances of scratches and dents, therefore, reducing the chances of rust occurring:

Avoid driving over potholes and roads that are under construction
Avoid parking over gutters or watered areas, such as puddles or snow mounts
Do not park close to other cars in the parking lot
Park the car under shade to avoid snow and wet weather

While investing in these options might not seem like it’s worth it, it will be when you avoid rust developing in your vehicle. Repairing rust can be very expensive so add precautions to your cars with these suggestions.

One of the best ways for you to protect your vehicle is through the application of a 3M paint protection film. The original use of these films was protection for helicopter rotors. The military had issues with debris and small objects damaging their helicopters and asked 3M to find a solution. Thus, the film we know was born, and it has become a commercial success.

Now, several companies have different versions of the original product, and even 3M has different versions. For example, a less well-known version of the product is available in custom cuts for bicycle frames. This product helps prevent the same damage that pilots face for bicyclists, which is a great boon overall.

The cost of a 3M paint protection film is a variable one. There are several aspects that you must take into account when purchasing this product. These aspects include the size of your application, the type of film you apply, and the vehicle you are installing the product on.

The Cost Aspects of 3M Paint Protection Film

The Size of Application

The size of the application will play the largest role in the price. Some people prefer to protect only the highest risk areas, such as the lip of the hood, fenders and side mirrors. However, there are people who recognize the full value of this product and apply it over every exterior surface of their vehicle.

As a result, the size of the application can vary the cost from $429 to $4,799. Overall, you will have to decide what you consider the best value, and choose a level of coverage that reflects that decision.

The Type of Film

The type of film will also play a role in the cost. Unfortunately, there are indeed inferior versions of the product available at unauthorized dealers. These may look less expensive at first, but when you have to reapply them or replace them frequently, the overall cost may not vary overmuch.

The Vehicle

The vehicle will also play a part in determining the cost. For example, pickup trucks simply have more areas to cover, and the price will be higher as a result. Similarly, the complexity of a vehicle’s exterior can play a role. The electric vehicle brand Tesla is a good example of this. Their cars have a multitude of sensors that you must consider during the film installation, and the price for paint protection film is higher to compensate.

Find Your 3M Paint Protection Film

The best protection for your car is nearby. All you have to do is book an appointment, wait three hours, and your vehicle will have a new lease on life. For such a simple process, not picking up the phone seems barely worth consideration.

A clear bra is another name for a paint protection film. The names are interchangeable, and both of them provide the same primary function, which is to protect your vehicle from small amounts of damage. Typically, you would apply a clear bra to the elements on the front of your cars, such as the bumper, headlights, and detail areas.

However, to truly understand why a clear bra is necessary, you will need to know about a few other things. Firstly, the likelihood that your vehicle will get unsightly scrapes and scratches, and secondly, how easy it is to prevent this damage from occurring. More information is below.

Why You Need a Paint Protection Film

How likely is the damage?

Damage to the front of your vehicle is very likely. Just take a moment to consider it. Firstly, when you drive behind other cars on the road, their tires will naturally throw up rocks, which is also the cause of windshield chips. Additionally, if you live in a crowded urban centre, chances are people will have to perform complicated parking maneuvers near your vehicle, and not everyone is as careful with your car as you would be in the same situation.

How easy is prevention?

The prevention of this type of damage to your car or truck is effortless. All you need to do is find a qualified and licensed 3M paint protection film installer near you, and book an appointment. Then, show up to your appointment and speak with the professionals who can advise you on the best areas to apply the clear bra as well as general maintenance and upkeep tips. However, it is fair to note at this point that the upkeep of your clear bra should be fairly minimal.

How to protect your clear bra?

Protecting your clear bra should involve only one simple step. Don’t tailgate your fellow drivers. Yes, it is really that simple. When you leave the professionals to install your clear bra, it will be smooth and free from any blisters or defects. This process essentially makes the paint protection film a permanent part of your car, and any damage it sustains will not carry through to your vehicle.

How to Find a Paint Protection Film Installer

Finding a paint protection film installer is also relatively simple. At Calgary PPF, we have the tools you are looking for to complete this installation, and we would love to hear from you. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can answer any questions you may have.

3M paint protection film is a great way to protect your vehicle’s beautiful paint job from unnecessary weathering or damage. It appears as a clear film that is barely visible when installed correctly and can last over a year. However, like most modifications to vehicles, it is best done by professionals who have the tools and equipment necessary for correct installation.

With that being said, learning about the process can still be fun and rewarding. Knowledge is power, after all, and learning more about this product can give you imaginative ways to utilize it in your daily activities. Therefore, you can follow the steps below to understand the process and share the information with friends and family alike.

The Process of 3M Paint Protection Film Installation

The process of 3M paint protection film installation begins with cleaning your vehicle. Proper surface preparation is an essential part of many vehicle enhancements as it allows you to work on a clean surface, free of harmful dust and grime.

After your vehicle is suitably cleaned, prepare two solutions in spray bottles. The first bottle should be mostly water with a few drops of baby shampoo, and the second will be a mix of water and isopropyl alcohol (60%/40%). If you don’t have baby shampoo, don’t worry. Most soaps will act as a surfactant, which is what is important to reduce the surface tension of the water.

Next, it is time for you to remove the protective backing of the paint protection film. During this process, soak the film with your water/ soap solution, and then align it to the desired application area. After you have correctly aligned the piece to the appropriate section, spray under the film with the water/ alcohol solution, which will begin the curing process of the adhesive.

Finally, use the provided squeegee tool and pull away from the centre to remove any air bubbles. Take your time with this step as it is here that you will be finalizing the position of the paint protection film. After the installation, remember not to wash your vehicle for at least 24 hours, which will give the film time to adhere correctly and cure on your car.

Trust the Experts with 3M Paint Protection Film Installation

Now that you understand the process, you should be able to appreciate the difficulty involved in proper application. If you do not have the right amount of each solution or the film is not aligned correctly, you are likely to install an inferior system, which may cause the film to fail prematurely. Therefore, your best option for installing this product is to leave it to the experts as they have the experience, tools, and understanding necessary to complete the job successfully every time.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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