PPF - Paint Protection film
What is Paint Protection film (PPF)
Tesla Model 3 with PPF being applied to front bumper.
PPF is usually a clear and glossy film made from polyurethane. It was originally designed for the military in the 1980s to cover helicopter rotor blades to prevent damage and chipping. Having evolved dramatically since then, it has become a popular choice for car owners to protect their paintwork from physical impacts.
While we have experience with many film brands, we are partnered with industry leaders, such as XPEL as one of their official installers in Melbourne. This means we are authorised to install their full range of products while maintaining a consistent level of quality work. To find out more about XPEL’s products and brand click here.
Due to its thickness, the PPF film can easily withstand stone chips and road debris from everyday driving. In fact, it is very popular among car enthusiasts who take their cars to the racetrack, where debris strikes the car’s surface at a much higher speed.
PPF Film is typically offered in a gloss variant and also in an opaque matte/satin finish. This allows car owners to not only match their factory finish but also modify their car's look if they wish.
The Lab has invested heavily in the best equipment and training to achieve fantastic results. We use the latest software and databases, including professional and tailor made CAD templates that we cut out on site for your vehicle. This allows for symmetrical, safe and also consistent results for your car.
Additionally, here at The Lab, we specialise in custom PPF installation. Where possible, we wrap PPF over the edge of panels to ensure full coverage, maximum protection, and a seamless finish.
Below you can see the detailed work involved on a Ferrari 488 Pista Spider and other vehicles.
Further below, we outline the various coverages and packages available for your vehicle. Options range from just a simple front bumper, to a full front or track package and of course the full wrap option is available for those who want the most comprehensive coverage.
PPF Coverages & Options
Full wrap
5 - 7 days
The Full Wrap is the most comprehensive option available for protecting your car. It will cover every painted panel on your vehicle and often includes many extra components such as grilles, side mirrors, B-pillars, and lights
Because of the high material cost and time associated with wrapping a full vehicle, the cost is also the highest among all options.
Depending on the vehicle’s design, we often discuss with the owner the option of disassembling certain parts such as badges, door handles and vents. This step provides us better access for a cleaner and overall better result.
Due to the size of the job and the scope of work, please allow ample time and potentially plan transportation ahead as we will need the vehicle for at least a week.
More complex vehicles such as supercars, often have many components in their templates covering carbon fibre aero or rear diffusers. These components are very time consuming and may increase the project's overall time and cost.
Track Package
2 - 3 Days
The Track Package is designed for car enthusiasts who want to protect their vehicle from the effects of fast driving and driving closely behind other vehicles.
This Package is an extension and upgrade from the full front option by adding the side skirts and the A Pillars.
The package is flexible because car designs differ from one another. Some cars may require pieces for the rear quarters or different coverage styles for the side skirts.
With the exception of the full wrap, the track package is a great option that protects high-impact areas of your vehicle.
Covers :
Front Bumper
Headlights
Full Bonnet
Full Front Guards
Side mirrors
Side Skirts
A Pillars
FUll Front
2 Days
The Full Front package is the best option for an appearance that is a step down from the full wrap. In addition to the front bumper & headlights, the full front also includes the full bonnet, the full front guards and side mirrors.
This option provides superior protection by shielding the entire front end of a vehicle from oncoming road debris.
Secondly, the full front also removes the edge line that occurs with a partial front wrap
Covers :
Front Bumper
Headlights
Full Bonnet
Full Front Guards
Side mirrors