PPF vs ceramic coating

Film is a shield. Coating is a surface.

Paint protection film is a clear film on the panels that catch rocks, bugs and door dings. The film takes the hit. The clear coat under it does not.

A ceramic coating bonds to paint that has been washed, decontaminated and polished. It is a gloss layer. It is not a second clear coat you can throw a stone at.

Where each one starts.

A full front covers the bumper, the hood, the fenders and the mirrors, from $1,695, or $1,995 on a large vehicle. Bumper-only and partial front are smaller. Complete coverage is every painted panel, from $5,900, or $6,900 large.

Ceramic coating starts at $479 for a 12–15 month graphene layer. A 5-year coating is $899. The 10-year level is $1,199. Lifetime is $1,549. Large vehicles are higher on the same page.

A lot of new cars get both.

Film on the front, coating on the rest of the paint. The full-front plus ceramic combo is $2,395 standard or $2,695 large.

Film does not replace a coating if you want the paint to bead water. A coating does not replace film if the highway throws gravel.

Ultrashield, a film and coating brand, lists its warranty check and certified installers at ultrashieldprotection.com.

Where the work happens.

Film is installed in the shop. It is not a driveway job. Level 1 coating can be mobile or at the shop. Levels 2, 3 and 4 stay in the shop for a full day and an overnight cure.

Text (814) 680-2418 with the vehicle. We will say which one the car actually needs before we book it.