Summer is just around the corner, bringing sun-soaked road trips, weekend getaways, and long drives under clear skies. While the warm weather is perfect for hitting the open road, it’s not so friendly to your car’s paint. For example, UV rays, bug splatters, bird droppings, and road debris can damage it.
If you want to keep your car looking flawless this summer, applying Paint Protection Film (PPF) is one of the best investments you can make. In this blog, we’ll explore why PPF is a must-have before the heat arrives and how it safeguards your car’s paint.
The dangers summer poses to car paint
Summer might be the perfect time for road trips and sunshine, but it’s also a season full of hidden threats to your car’s paint. Here are some of the biggest dangers summer poses to your car’s paint:
- UV rays: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can break down your car’s clear coat, causing the paint to fade and oxidize. The heat accelerates this process, making the surface look dull and chalky.
- Bird droppings: Bird droppings contain acids that can quickly eat into your car’s clear coat, especially when baked by the sun. If not removed promptly, they can leave permanent stains and etchings.
- Bug Splatter: Bug remains are acidic and can bond with your car’s paint when exposed to sunlight. Over time, they can cause etching and make the surface rough to the touch.
- Tree sap: Tree sap hardens quickly under the sun, making it difficult to remove without scratching the paint. Its sticky nature allows it to trap dirt and debris, causing additional damage when wiped.
- Water spots: Summer showers can leave behind mineral-rich water spots that etch into the paint as they dry. The heat intensifies this effect, making the spots harder to remove.
- Road tar and asphalt – Hot asphalt softens in the summer, causing tar and other road debris to stick to your car’s paint. If not cleaned off promptly, these substances can leave dark stains and damage the clear coat.
- Sand and dust: Wind-blown sand and dust act like micro-abrasives, causing fine scratches when you wipe them off. In coastal areas, salt particles can add to the risk of corrosion.
Learn more: Why You Should Consider PPF Before Spring Road Trips
Why PPF is a must-have for summer
With summer’s intense sun and harsh road conditions, keeping your car’s paint looking fresh can be a real challenge. That’s where PPF comes in as a game-changer. Here’s how PPF protects your car’s paint in the summer:
Protection against road debris
Summer often means road trips, increased driving, and more exposure to road debris like gravel, rocks, and dirt. These small objects can chip or scratch your car’s paint, causing permanent damage. PPF acts as a barrier that absorbs the impact of debris, keeping your car’s paint intact.
Prevents bug and bird droppings damage
During the summer months, bugs are more active, and bird droppings are common. Both of these contaminants are acidic and can cause paint damage if not cleaned immediately. PPF provides a protective layer that prevents these elements from directly contacting the paint, making it easier to clean them off without harm.
UV protection
The sun’s UV rays can cause fading, oxidation, and dullness to your car’s paint over time. PPF helps block these harmful rays, preventing damage to your vehicle’s exterior. It preserves the vibrancy of your car’s paint, ensuring it stays glossy and fresh.
Heat resistance
Summer heat can cause the paint on your car to expand and contract, leading to cracks or peeling. PPF provides a heat-resistant layer that shields the paint from temperature fluctuations. This protection helps maintain the integrity of the paint, preventing heat-related damage.
Long-term protection
Summer can expose your car to a lot of wear and tear, but PPF offers long-lasting protection. With its self-healing properties, minor scratches and scuffs disappear with heat, maintaining a flawless finish.
How to maintain PPF in summer
To prolong the life of your PPF and keep it looking its best, follow these maintenance tips:
- Wash regularly: Clean your car at least once a week using a pH-neutral car shampoo and a microfiber wash mitt. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can degrade the film’s hydrophobic properties.
- Skip automatic car washes: The stiff brushes and harsh chemicals in automatic car washes can cause PPF to peel or scratch. Opt for hand washes instead.
- Dry properly: Use a microfiber drying towel to prevent water spots. The hydrophobic surface of PPF will make this process quicker and easier.
- Inspect for damage: Periodically check for any signs of peeling or lifting, especially along edges, and address them promptly.
Get ready for summer with PPF service at Inspire Detailing
Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to protect your car’s paint from the harsh elements with PPF. At Inspire Detailing, we specialize in high-quality PPF services that will keep your vehicle looking pristine all season long. If you’ve been searching for “PPF near me,” we’re here to provide the best protection for your vehicle.
Visit us at 415 S. Conococheague St, Suite #400, Williamsport, MD 21795, or call us at 240-850-0160 to book your appointment. Let us help you preserve your car’s beauty before summer arrives!