Stone chips, sandblasting, cat’s-eye strikes and shopping-trolley brushes — real-world driving takes a toll. Paint Protection Film (PPF) is the gold standard for impact resistance, adding a clear, self-healing barrier that absorbs minor damage so your paint doesn’t have to. At Mat’s Detailing in Hamilton, we cut PPF using specialised software and plotters for precise, model-specific patterns, minimising on-car cutting and delivering a discreet, high-end finish.
What PPF actually does (and why it’s different from coatings)
Coatings are fantastic for chemical resistance and easy cleaning, but they don’t stop chips. PPF is a thick, elastomeric urethane film that physically absorbs impacts and self-heals light marks with engine heat or sunlight. It’s optically clear, available in high-gloss (adds depth) or matte (satin stealth) and has UV inhibitors to protect the underlying paint.
Precision matters: software-cut patterns
We load your exact make and model into our software and plot the film pattern off-car. This allows tight tolerances, neat sensor/washer cut-outs and minimal blade work on the vehicle. Where possible, we edge-wrap for a near-invisible finish. On bikes, we template tanks, fairings and high-wear zones; on RVs we target strike areas and ladder-adjacent edges; on boats we protect contact zones and gelcoat faces.
Finish quality: what to look for
A top-tier PPF install looks invisible. We focus on symmetrical seams, aligned edges, clean sensor apertures and minimal stretch. After install, we heat-set edges and conduct a final inspection under high-CRI lighting to ensure clarity and adhesion.
Can you coat PPF?
Yes. Topping PPF with a ceramic/graphene coating improves slickness, water behaviour and clean-down. It doesn’t affect self-healing and makes bugs and road film easier to remove.
Care and maintenance
Hand wash with pH-neutral shampoo, avoid harsh solvents, and dry with soft microfibre. Skip automatic brushes. If you see a mark, park in the sun — many micro-scuffs self-heal. We can safely decontaminate and top-coat during scheduled maintenance.
FAQs
Will PPF yellow?
Modern, quality films resist yellowing. We install premium brands and stand behind the warranty.
Can you see the film?
Edges may be faintly visible up close; from a step back the install should disappear. We aim for edge wraps where safe.
How long does it last?
Typically many years with proper care. We’ll discuss warranty specifics for your package.
Want to stop chips before they happen? Ask us to pattern-check your make/model and put together a package — from front-end to full body. Visit us at 2/142 Riverlea Road or book our mobile consultation across Waikato.
