When I got my first car, I was not aware of all these things concerning car paint. As a matter of fact, the interior was my main focus, but it was not until I began to notice changes in the car paint that I had to start researching and asking questions, and here I am today, teaching you from my wealth of experience.
I had always thought that when you paint the car, it is finished. I did not know about waxing, coating, or even PPF. If you are in this category, you are in the right place. I’m about to teach you something you will wish you’d known all this while.
Your friends will appreciate it if you share this article with them so they can also read it. And just like I said in the beginning, I will walk you through the benefits of paint protection film, show you the best types you can go for in Nigeria, and even teach you how to apply them in case of DIY.
Let’s delve in properly!
Why You Should Use Paint Protection Films in Nigeria
I have used high-quality paint already, so why should I still stress myself with PPF? Don’t worry, just read on. You will understand why it is essential in Nigeria below.
- Scorching Sun: It’s already settled case that Nigeria’s sunlight is intense. Long exposure to UV rays causes paint oxidation.
- Dust and Debris: Harmattan winds carry with them abrasive dust that may scratch the surface of your car.
- Heavy Rainfalls: Acid rain can, over time, eat away at your paintwork.
- Poor Roads: Gravel and other debris from poorly maintained roads can lead to chips and scratches on the car surface.
With a good-quality PPF, you are sure to keep your car’s paint unscathed and maintained. Its resale value and appearance will always be top-notch.
Best Paint Protection Films for Cars in Nigeria
Here are those top paint protection films (PPF) for cars that are suitable for Nigerian weather conditions.
1. XPEL Ultimate Plus
This PPF has something I call a self-healing technology that repairs minor scratches. It contains a high-gloss finish for a polished look and is designed to resist discoloration from UV exposure.
It is a perfect PPF for combating the intense heat and dusty conditions, especially in northern states.
2. 3M Scotchgard Pro Series
It has high stain resistance and contains hydrophobic properties to repel water and dirt. It helps to enhance your car’s color with its clear finish.
This is recommended for those who live in areas with frequent rainfall, like Lagos, as it repels water effectively.
3. SunTek Ultra
SunTek Ultra has superior scratch resistance. You can get it in both gloss and matte finishes. It is easy to install with strong adhesive. Its scratch resistance makes it suitable for places like Abuja, where road debris is common.
4. LLumar Platinum Paint Protection Film
It contains a thick, durable film for added protection. It also has UV resistance that withstands fading. Its toughness is good for poor roads and heavy-duty use like in commercial vehicles, and trucks.
5. Kavaca Ceramic Coated PPF
Kavaca combines PPF with ceramic coating technology. It is highly hydrophobic and contains anti-yellowing and anti-contamination layers.
It is perfect for luxurious cars, which constantly have to put up with the conditions of city roads and the unpredictable weather.
How to Choose the Best PPF for Your Car?
1. Consider Your Environment
If you stay in dry and dusty regions, you should go for scratch-resistant PPFs such as SunTek Ultra. But if you reside in rainy areas, hydrophobic options are better. An example is the 3M Scotchgard Pro.
2. Budget Wisely
I just had to tag it budget wisely because at times you may think you are saving cost, but you are actually losing in the long term. Different PPFs cost differently. High-end options like XPEL are expensive, but they guarantee unmatched durability.
3. Car Type and Usage
You know the category your car falls into. For high-value cars, go for ceramic-infused films for superior protection. For commercial cars, LLumar Platinum remains the best because it is thick enough to protect from chips, scratches, and the like.
Benefits of Using Paint Protection Films
Here are more reasons you should use a paint protection film for your car. Read through carefully.
1. Scratch and Chip Resistance
PPFs create a barrier between your car’s paint and elements outside the car, thus limiting the effects that gravel, debris, or other accidental bumps have.
2. UV and Oxidation Protection
Good-quality films shelter your car from the harsh rays of the sun, which means no discoloration or oxidation of paint.
3. Easy Maintenance
Hydrophobic PPFs make the cleaning job easy as they repel water, dirt, and oil.
4. Increased Aesthetic Beauty
Paint Protection Films (PPFs) add either a high-gloss or matte finish to your car, enhancing its appearance while the original paint remains unscathed.
5. Cost Effective in the Long Run
Although a little expensive at first, PPFs will save you from having to repaint, buff, or touch up constantly.
Application Tips of PPF for Nigerian Drivers
These are the steps you can take in the application of PPFs. If you are a DIY enthusiast, pay close attention to this section.
- If you are not well familiar with the application of paint protection films, I advise that you go to professionals to ensure that the job is done correctly to avoid bubbles and other uneven finishes.
- If you are doing it yourself, clean and polish the car well before applying the PPF to ensure a seamless look of the film.
- Full-body protection or protection of the areas that are prone to damage like the hood, bumper, and mirrors is considered depending on whether the car is a luxury one or not.
- Ensure regular maintenance of the film by washing with mild, non-abrasive soap and avoiding strong chemicals to give the film a long life.
Conclusion
A paint protection film is an excellent investment in the tough Nigerian environment, which always seems to take its toll on cars due to sun, rain, and road conditions. Whether you drive a luxury SUV in Lagos or a commercial van in Kano, the right PPF will see your vehicle retain its glory for many years.
With PPFs like XPEL, 3M, and SunTek, you are sure that your car is protected. Visit us today at Fidel Associates Limited and have the best PPF solutions fitted into your car!
