Currently comparing vehicle ceramic coatings vs PPF? We’re here to help. Our automotive tint shop specializes in the application of automotive ceramic coatings and paint protection film. Today we will go over the ins and outs of these two types of vehicle enhancements. The goal here is to help you make the best decision for your vehicle.

Ceramic Coating vs PPF on vehicle wraps in Maryland

What is a Ceramic Coating?

A ceramic coating is, as its name suggests, is a liquid coating applied to your vehicle. This coating is a nano-ceramic liquid which fills in all the microscopic gaps, cracks, and imperfections on the surface to which it is applied. The benefit here, in short, is that it makes your vehicle hydrophobic. Put differently, water rolls off the vehicle and any type of dirt, bird poop, or other blemish, can be much more easily cleaned. In addition, when applied to windows, ceramic coatings strengthen the glass leading to less crack and breaks.

What is PPF?

PPF stands for paint protection film. PFF is a clear, thin, self-healing film which is applied to a vehicle’s exterior. To give a comparison, PFF is a lot like the clear protective screen covers people apply to their phones. The main benefit to applying PPF is that it shields your vehicle’s paint against stains and scratches to your paint caused by road debris.

How PPF is like a Ceramic Coating

Wondering if you can just get PPF instead of a ceramic coating? Or maybe vise versa? Here is how PPF is like ceramic coatings when it applies to a vehicle.

  • Both PPF and ceramic coatings blocks against environmental hazards like acid rain, smog, snow, ice, bird droppings, and excessive heat.
  • Both PPF and ceramic coatings prevent oxidation of a vehicle’s paint job, aka fading paint.
  • Both stop chemical etch marks caused by minerals in water, acid rain, etc…
  • Both PPF and ceramic coatings will keep your paint looking brand new for years.
  • Both PPF and ceramic coatings provide an invisible finish if you so desire.

How PPF is different from a Ceramic Coating

When comparing PPF vs. ceramic coatings, most folks are really interested in what makes them different. Effectively, what you will lose out on by going with one over the other, or by not applying both to your vehicle. Here is how PPF is different from a ceramic coating.

  • PPF is removable. So, if you scratch your film backing out of the garage, you just need to replace the damaged panel and it’s back to normal. Compare this to ceramic coatings which won’t be coming off without the help of a professional detailer.
  • Different materials. While an obvious difference, different materials lead to different installation methods and timelines which affects cost.
  • A ceramic coating makes your car easier to clean and hydrophobic, but it wont protect as well as PPF against road debris.
  • Looks can be different. PPF can come in matte, ceramic coating provides an unmatched enhancement to gloss.
  • PPF absorbs scratches and actually self-heals.
Vehicle wraps in Bethesda, MD Ceramic Coating vs PPF

Should I Get PPF or Ceramic Coating for my Vehicle?

Really, this answer boils down to your budget and your needs. If you want protection from the elements, then PPF is probably your best bet. Are you looking to have your vehicle look better while making it easier to clean? Ceramic coatings are the better option.

That said, it’s very common for vehicle owners to get the best of both worlds. Apply PPF to protect the most vulnerable areas of the vehicle (front bumper for example) and then applying ceramic coating across the entire vehicle for better looks and cleaning.

How Does PPF Affect a Vehicle Wrap?

Paint protection film doesn’t behave any different with a vehicle wrap than it does with PPF. In fact, it’s very commonplace for customers who pay for a nice vehicle wrap to protect that wrap with paint protection film. This is because a single scratch in one of our Maryland vehicle wraps will still show the paint underneath, and that wrap can’t heal on its own. In contrast, PPF will heal itself which helps your vehicle wrap last much longer.

Ceramic Coating vs PPF on vehicle wraps in Baltimore, MD

How Does a Ceramic Coating Affect a Vehicle Wrap?

A ceramic coating works on a vehicle wrap just like it would on regular vehicle paint. It enhances the gloss look of the wrap while filling in tiny imperfections which turns the wrap into a hydrophobic surface. Put differently, ceramic coatings won’t hurt your vehicle wrap—instead they will enhance it as described above.

Your Bethesda, MD Vehicle Wraps Installer

Interested in PPF or ceramic coatings in Maryland? Maybe you need help with a new Bethesda, MD vehicle wrap design or installation? AP Graphics is the top-rated Maryland vehicle wraps company providing a variety of vehicle customization options including wraps, ppf, and ceramic coatings!