PPF (Paint Protection Film) Vs. Ceramic Coating

Posted on: Feb 23, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

PPF (Paint Protection Film) Vs. Ceramic Coating

Among the two most popular options, you can easily make your choice between PPF and ceramic coating. However, you need to be aware of the differences between these to make an informed choice. Just like a car insurance policy protects your vehicle, this is a protection feature of your car.

What is PPF?

This is a tinted, flexible, and transparent protective coating that remains applied on the outer body of the vehicle. It is generally prepared from thermoplastic urethane, ideal because of its self-healing qualities. It protects the vehicle from chipping, minor scratches, colour fading and other minor natural wear and tear, keeping it new for a long time.

With proper maintenance, PPF may last for 7-10 years. They are practically not visible and never affect the overall look of your car’s exterior. You must remember that PPF coatings are also available in several types of finishes.

What is a ceramic coating?

This is a strongly water-resistant liquid polymer ceramic coating that is hardened and cured so that a transparent protective layer is formed on the car's exterior. It provides a glossy and smooth finish, a common feature that most car owners desire. Just like a car insurance policy , the ceramic coating protects the vehicle.

It effectively repels mud, dust and other factors that prove to be harmful to the car’s paint, along with UV protection. It is user-friendly.

Differences between PPF and ceramic coating: a brief overview

A comparative tabular analysis of PPF vs ceramic coating will highlight the chief aspects better:

CATEGORIES	PAINT PROTECTION FILM	CERAMIC COATING
Thickness	Comparatively thicker than ceramic coating	Comparatively thinner
Self-healing qualities	Present	Present only in the newer variants
Water-resistance	Usually no	Strongly
Maintenance	Automated car wash can be done but is vulnerable to mishandling and improper maintenance and washing	Not compatible with automated car wash; self-cleaning and drying are easy
Independent application	Possible both at home and professional centres	Only professional application is possible
UV Protection	Reduced UV protection as compared to ceramic coating	Present
External Protection	Offers efficient protection against abrasions, scratches, debris, etc.	Ideal for water resistance, and also effectively protects against environmental contaminants
Lifespan	7-10 years	2-5 years
Cost	Expensive	Comparatively affordable
Car insurance coverage	Not relevant	Not relevant

Conclusion

While choosing the type of external protection, you must consider the size of the vehicle, the protection variant essential, your budget, etc. It might affect the overall price of the vehicle which in turn can raise the comprehensive insurance cost of the car. Depending on the circumstances, the type of coating may even improve the prospects of IDV in car insurance.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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