Step-by-Step: What to Expect During an XPEL Paint Protection Film Installation
Paint Protection Films (PPFs) are revolutionary when it comes to safeguarding external surfaces of vehicles. Your car’s paint is protected against scratches, rock chips, and environmental damage by an invisible barrier made possible by this cutting-edge technology. But you should know the proper installation procedure to set realistic expectations when you are buying XPEL in Calgary. Read this blog to know the detailed procedure of XPEL PPF so that you get to understand the way professionals do it.
What Are the Usual Steps of XPEL PPF Installation?
1. Initial Consultation and Inspection
You will have an initial meeting with a certified XPEL technician prior to the installation starting. This stage entails paint evaluation where the expert will inspect your vehicle’s paint to look for existing scratches, swirls, or defects. Then comes the custom plan where you’ll discuss the portions of your vehicle you want to protect. Whether it’s the entire car, the front end, or individual panels. Then try the product options. The technician will explain the various XPEL film kinds, such as XPEL Ultimate Plus for superior protection or XPEL Stealth for a matte look.
2. Thorough Cleaning and Prep Work
The car needs to be immaculate for a perfect fit. The preparation stage consists of deep cleaning, clay bar treatment, and paint correction (if needed). Deep cleaning involves washing the car’s exterior to remove grime, grease, and debris. Clay bar treatment removes minute impurities embedded in the paint to provide a flawless finish.
Finally, paint correction involves a process where minor scratches or defects are rubbed off to ensure the film adheres precisely to a smooth surface. As any residue left on the surface can generate bubbles or flaws behind the film, this pretreatment is essential.
3. Precision Cutting of the Film
Once your vehicle is prepared, the XPEL Paint Protection Film is tailored to its exact measurements. This involves digital templates as the first step. It is done to ensure an exact fit, and XPEL’s sophisticated design software contains pre-cut templates for practically every automobile type. Then comes customisation that helps fit your car’s distinctive curves or features; the technician could make minor alterations. This precision cutting eliminates waste and guarantees that your vehicle’s curves are covered flawlessly.
Know how XPEL PPFs can also be customised for almost all types of vehicles from our other blog.
4. Film Application Process
After the film is cut, the application begins. First comes the wet application method. This is done to enable accurate placement; a unique slip solution is sprayed onto the car’s surface and the film’s adhesive side. Then is positioning when the film is meticulously positioned by the technician to properly match the edges and curves of the vehicle.
Lastly, the squeegee technique is implemented. This helps guarantee flawless film adhesion; the installer uses a squeegee to eliminate air bubbles and extra solution. To avoid creases, bubbles, and film stretching, this procedure takes experience.
5. Final Adjustments and Inspection
The technician makes last-minute adjustments after applying the film to guarantee perfection. First comes trimming and tucking. Here, all surplus film is trimmed, and edges are tucked for a smooth appearance. Then edge sealing is done, as some parts may be heat sealed to avoid peeling or lifting over time. Finally, it goes through a thorough inspection. The entire vehicle is scrutinized under different lighting situations to identify any flaws.
6. Post-Installation Guidelines
You will receive maintenance instructions for your new XPEL PPF following installation. Firstly, there is a proper curing period. Allow 7-10 days for the adhesive to completely cure. Avoid washing your car at this time. For cleaning, a professional tip is to use pH-balanced auto shampoos and avoid abrasive instruments. For annual maintenance, you should ensure regular inspections and moderate polishing can help to extend the film’s life.
Conclusion
Installing an XPEL in Calgary or anywhere else for your car can be a painstaking procedure that blends state-of-the-art technology with expert artistry. You can appreciate the work that goes into protecting the paint on your car by knowing each stage and the methods implemented. While the process can change based on the firm that you take your car to and the type of PPF you use, the overall process is more or less the same for PPF installation.
After the film is installed, you can drive with confidence knowing that your car is shielded from everyday dangers while still looking like new. If you are looking to install XPEL PPF for your vehicle anywhere in Calgary, try visiting Calgary Car Detailing.