Paint Protection Film
Can I take my car through a pressure wash with SunTek Paint Protection Film?
It is best practice to wait one week before washing your car. While hand washing is preferred, you can use a pressure wash, but be careful near edges as the pressure water can lift the edge of the film off of your vehicle.
Can “coatings” be applied to SunTek Paint Protection Film?
Ceramic coatings are approved for use with our Paint Protection Films when applied over the surface of the product. Ceramic coatings create an additional barrier for solvent and water penetration while not negatively impacting the performance or self-healing of our Paint Protection Film. This application will not void your warranty.
Can SunTek Paint Protection Film be applied over repaired/fresh paint?
SunTek Paint Protection Film is designed and warrantied when applied to original paint. Issues with aftermarket/repaired paint are not warranted by SunTek. If you choose to still have SunTek Paint Protection Film installed over fresh paint, the common waiting period is 30 days for the paint to outgas.
Should I wax my car prior to SunTek Paint Protection Film installation?
It is not recommended to apply wax or any coatings to your vehicle prior to having SunTek Paint Protection Film installed. Any waxes or coatings can interfere with proper adhesion of the film to the vehicle.
How soon after installation can I drive my vehicle?
In an ideal situation, an installer will have the vehicle 24 hours to monitor the film for any lifting edges before releasing the vehicle to the owner. In situations where this is not possible, we strongly recommend at least a 2-3 hour waiting period indoors followed by an inspection to ensure all edges are sealed before the vehicle is released.
How does the self-healing work?
SunTek Paint Protection Film contains a proprietary top-coat. This top coat protects the urethane against surface scratches. The majority of surface scratches will self-heal when exposed to heat – sun, warm panel (motor running), warm water, etc. We demonstrate this with a copper wire brush to simulate surface scratches, such as surface dirt, sand, salt, etc., that will self-heal.
Will SunTek Paint Protection Film turn yellow?
The SunTek Paint Protection Film C, Matte and Ultra series are protected against yellowing. Our top coat protects the Paint Protection Film against harmful solvents that are in gases, oils, bird droppings, car exhausts, etc. that can absorb into the film and cause yellowing. SunTek Altered Black PPF is warrantied against discoloration.
Will paint with and without SunTek Paint Protection Film fade differently?
No. The area protected with SunTek Paint Protection Film will fade at the same rate as the unprotected area.
Ceramic Coating
What Is a Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic coatings are extremely durable vehicle protection systems. Depending on the coating used, they are suitable for use on paintwork, wheels, glass and plastic trim. The basic chemical composition of a ceramic coating is Silicon Dioxide (SiO2). Ceramic coatings may also be referred to as quartz or glass coatings.
What Do Ceramic Coatings Do?
Ceramic Pro will give superior protection against light surface scratching caused by poor washing, harmful UV rays, graffiti, dirt build up, premature aging and oxidation, weathering, bird droppings, brake dust, and even help prevent acid rain stain. Your treated car will not only be easier to clean, but it will also stay clean longer due to its super hydrophobic properties. Ceramic coatings are second to none when it comes to giving your paint that deep rich reflective gloss and shine.
What Is Your Recommended Maintenance Regime?
We advise that every 12 months the vehicle is thoroughly decontaminated by the removal of any road tar, iron, tree sap and industrial fallout deposits that may have accumulated. Following that we will typically apply an SiO2 sealant to rejuvenate the ceramic coating and enhance its hydrophobic properties.
How Long Do Ceramic Coatings Last?
This will depend on the type of coating and the environment in which the car is driven and stored. There will also be a dependency on how well the coating is maintained. For instance, Ceramic Pro forms a highly durable bond with the paintwork, which can last a number of years on a well maintained car. Ceramic Pro is resistant to chemicals, so it will not be washed away by strong car wash shampoos and cleaning chemicals. However, aggressive car washing with brushes or automatic car washes will reduce the lifespan of the product. We recommend only washing your car with microfiber cloths. As with any paintwork treatment, good regular maintenance is required for the best results and longevity of your ceramic coating. Ceramic Coatings can be removed by abrasion such as machine polishing, cutting compounds or cut and polish. Neglect such as failure to wash the vehicle regularly (weekly or fortnightly) can also reduce the performance and durability of the product.
How Do I Keep My Car Clean In The Meantime?
A careful and regular washing routine using a PH neutral shampoo and/or hydrophobic spray will keep your car looking pristine. Avoid letting your vehicle air dry; always use a quality microfiber cloth to dry your car.
Are Ceramic Coatings a Miracle ‘Fire and Forget’ Product?
Absolutely not, despite being very durable they still need maintaining. Beware of the hype that comes with many car treatment systems (ceramic and dealership applied treatments) that promise ‘no polishing’ and ‘lifetime protection with no maintenance’ as part of the deal. We have worked on countless vehicles with various coating systems applied and have yet to find any that meet the often extravagant claims made by the industry. It is simply not possible to coat a car, then treat it to the occasional wash, and for it to remain glossy and contaminant free several years down the road.
How Do Ceramic Coatings Work?
Waxes and many paint sealants sit on the applied surface of your car. Ceramic Coatings work by bonding a thin layer of product directly to your car’s paintwork, creating a new substrate. Once bonded, the product is much harder to remove than traditional products, and is therefore more durable.
I’ve Had My Car Treated; Is There Anything to Avoid?
Avoid roller brush car washes and wiping your car clean when it’s dry. Always have a lubricant and clean microfiber cloth or wash mitt.
Can I Take My Car in Rain After Applying Ceramic Coatings?
Ceramic Coatings need to cure for around 24 hours before being exposed to rain. Your car will need to be garaged overnight unless the weather forecast does not include rain.
