What Happens at a PPF Appointment

Step 1

Inspection: the paint the film will cover

Film magnifies nothing, but it hides nothing either. Existing chips, swirls and scratches stay visible under a clear film, so the inspection is where we agree on what the paint looks like now and whether anything should be fixed first. Small chips are better touched up before film goes over them.

Repaints matter too. LLumar designs its film for original painted surfaces and says issues with aftermarket or repaired paint are not covered by its warranty. If a panel was recently refinished, LLumar notes that 30 days is the common waiting period for new paint to outgas before film goes on. Tell us about any body work, even if it was years ago.

• Bring up any panel you know has been repainted or repaired.
• Ask whether a chip or scratch should be addressed before film covers it.
• Confirm which panels are included and how the edges will finish on each one.
• Choose your finish: LLumar Platinum comes in gloss, black, matte and extra-thick versions.

Step 3

Installing the film

Across the industry, film is installed wet. The installer sprays the paint and the adhesive side of the film with a slip solution so the piece can float and be positioned exactly, then uses a tack solution and a squeegee to push the liquid out from the center toward the edges. Where a panel curves, the film is gently stretched and worked so it lies flat without distortion.

Pieces come either from vehicle-specific patterns cut by a plotter or from bulk film trimmed on the car. Edges are wrapped around the panel where there is room to do it cleanly, and left just short of the edge where wrapping would risk lifting. Small relief cuts help film follow tight shapes like mirror housings and bumper vents. Which approach we use on each panel of your car depends on the vehicle and the coverage; we walk you through it when you book.

1. Position

   The film floats on slip solution so it can be aligned to body lines and panel gaps.

2. Anchor

   One area is set first, usually the center of the panel, so the film cannot drift.

3. Squeegee

   Solution is pushed out toward the edges in overlapping strokes. What is left becomes the small moisture pockets you may see for a few days.

4. Edges and corners

   Edges are wrapped or finished just short of the edge, and corners are worked so they do not lift.

5. Heat-set

   Heat helps film relax into curves and settles the edges and wrapped areas.

Step 5

Pickup and the first week

At pickup, walk around the car with us. Look along each edge, check the panels you cared most about and ask about anything you see. Some small water pockets or a faint haze under fresh film are a normal part of a wet install while the remaining moisture works its way out; we tell you what to expect for your car.

LLumar recommends you do not wash the car for three days (72 hours) after install. After that, hand washing with soap, water and a soft, clean cloth is the preferred method. LLumar discourages pressure washing and automatic car washes because they can lift the film, especially at the edges, and that damage is not covered by its limited warranty. Our PPF aftercare article covers the first week in detail.

• Do not pick at edges or press on small bubbles.
• Park in a garage or shade if you can for the first days.
• Remove bird droppings promptly; LLumar lists them as a staining hazard.
• Light swirls in the top coat level out with heat from the sun or warm water. Deep cuts do not.