PPF over vinyl? pros/cons and considerations after a poor color PPF install

[kosmo886]

I was planning to go with a full color PPF wrap primarily for the longevity of the wrap (didn't want to deal with needed to remove in 4 years) and the durability (i didn't want to go from a durable truck to having a delicate finish that would chip etc.). I did of course want a color change, hence the decision to wrap in the first place.

I got my truck back recently and the PPF job was quite poor. No wrapped edges, not straight cuts etc. The shop is very good at vinyl, but clearly underestimated the challenged of color ppf on the CT. The good news is they are standing by this and will make it right. One option I am considering is to have the CT wrapped in vinyl for the color change then have clear PPF over that for the added protection for the vinyl against chips etc. I have two primary questions at this point, but interested in whether there are other considerations as well:

1. with vinyl under PPF, what is the longevity? I assume the exterior of the vinyl will remain in pretty good shape longer than the typical 4 years. If that is the case, will the vinyl still need to be removed so it doesn't become challenging later? I don't think i'll have the traditional issue of risking body/paint damaging removing it given the stainless steel, but not sure.
2. I was hoping to include foundation series decals and possibly a two tone vinyl, with one layer on top of another. i've read that when having multi-layer vinyl with PPF on top, you can have micro air bubbles under the PFF which aren't really visible but can cause issues down the line. Any thoughts on this.
3. another option is scrapping the whole wrap idea or going with just vinyl and dealing with the delicate nature of it.

Any thoughts or help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

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[MyOtherTruck]

I did mine in vinyl. No worried about protecting the truck metal. If the vinyl gets hurt it's no big deal to fix. And it is more than half the price of ppf so I can change it more often for colors etc too.

 

[Stickercity]

We do both vinyl wrap, ppf and colored ppf installation services.

Longevity of Vinyl Under PPF
When you apply vinyl under PPF, you generally extend the life of the vinyl significantly. The PPF acts as a protective barrier against UV rays, road debris, and general wear and tear, which means the exterior of the vinyl can stay in great shape much longer than the typical lifespan. In many cases, you can expect the vinyl to last as long as the PPF itself, often up to 7-10 years depending on the quality of the materials and installation. The problem with this method is PPF is heavier in weight and can pull the edges off the vinyl making both products lift. The 2nd problem is they are doing everything 2 times and should usually cost more than double. You would only choose this option if you don't have the color of your choice in PPF. There are over 300 colors to choose from though on the PPF.
Removing Vinyl Later On
Since your Cybertruck has a stainless steel body, you’re correct that you won’t face the traditional issues of paint damage when removing vinyl. However, it's still advisable to replace the vinyl before it starts to degrade, as older vinyl can become brittle and more challenging to remove cleanly. By keeping an eye on the condition of the PPF and underlying vinyl, you can plan for a timely replacement without much hassle.

Alternatives: Vinyl Alone vs. PPF
If you’re considering scrapping the wrap idea or going with just vinyl, here are some thoughts:

• Vinyl Alone: Vinyl wraps look fantastic and offer a wide range of customization options, but they are more delicate than PPF. They are prone to scratches, UV damage, and general wear and tear, meaning you might need to replace or repair them more frequently. The worst case I've seen was a vinyl wrap that oxidize within 3 months. This client lived by the beach and the car sat outside. Not a good feeling either way for both parties.
• PPF Alone: PPF provides robust protection against physical and environmental damage, but it’s less customizable in terms of color and design compared to vinyl wraps.

Vinyl Wrap
Pros:

• Customization: Wide variety of colors, finishes (gloss, matte, satin), and designs.
• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper than colored PPF.
• Easier to Replace: Individual panels can be replaced if damaged.
• Lighter Protection: Offers some protection against minor scratches and UV rays.

Cons:

• Durability: More prone to scratches, fading, and wear and tear compared to PPF.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 3-5 years before needing replacement.
• Maintenance: Requires careful maintenance to avoid damage.

Colored PPF
Pros:

• Superior Protection: Provides robust protection against scratches, chips, and environmental damage.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 7-10 years, offering long-term protection.
• Self-Healing: Many PPF products have self-healing properties that can repair minor scratches with heat.
• Maintenance: Easier to clean and maintain compared to vinyl wraps.

Cons:

• Cost: More expensive than vinyl wraps.
• Limited Customization: Fewer options for colors and finishes compared to vinyl.
• Installation: Requires professional installation to avoid bubbles and ensure a perfect fit.

Adding Logos on top of either vinyl or the PPF color changes should not be a concern. I would recommenced they either place the logos under the wrap or PPF for a engraved look and no chance of peeling. You can also go on top of the vinyl or PPF but I would suggest they make they bolden the logos so the decals don't come off easy during car washes.

Final Thoughts
I would suggest picking a colored PPF option if those color choices are offered to you by the installation company. If vinyl is your only option I would suggest putting ceramic coating on top of the vinyl to help with the UV but remember vinyl can easily scratch and ages very rapidly so in 1 year that vinyl begins not looking as great as when you first got it. We start our wraps at $3899 and our TPU PPF colors at $4899, so for $1k more I would highly recommended the TPU PPF.

You are more than welcome to call one of our team members for more information even if you are not in the LA area just for further education. 818 905 5678. Ask for Dean or Jason. If you are in the LA area and considering to wrap it please mention you are part of the forum and we have a $300 promo discount.

 

[rtfitch]

We do both vinyl wrap, ppf and colored ppf installation services.

Longevity of Vinyl Under PPF
When you apply vinyl under PPF, you generally extend the life of the vinyl significantly. The PPF acts as a protective barrier against UV rays, road debris, and general wear and tear, which means the exterior of the vinyl can stay in great shape much longer than the typical lifespan. In many cases, you can expect the vinyl to last as long as the PPF itself, often up to 7-10 years depending on the quality of the materials and installation. The problem with this method is PPF is heavier in weight and can pull the edges off the vinyl making both products lift. The 2nd problem is they are doing everything 2 times and should usually cost more than double. You would only choose this option if you don't have the color of your choice in PPF. There are over 300 colors to choose from though on the PPF.
Removing Vinyl Later On
Since your Cybertruck has a stainless steel body, you’re correct that you won’t face the traditional issues of paint damage when removing vinyl. However, it's still advisable to replace the vinyl before it starts to degrade, as older vinyl can become brittle and more challenging to remove cleanly. By keeping an eye on the condition of the PPF and underlying vinyl, you can plan for a timely replacement without much hassle.

Alternatives: Vinyl Alone vs. PPF
If you’re considering scrapping the wrap idea or going with just vinyl, here are some thoughts:

• Vinyl Alone: Vinyl wraps look fantastic and offer a wide range of customization options, but they are more delicate than PPF. They are prone to scratches, UV damage, and general wear and tear, meaning you might need to replace or repair them more frequently. The worst case I've seen was a vinyl wrap that oxidize within 3 months. This client lived by the beach and the car sat outside. Not a good feeling either way for both parties.
• PPF Alone: PPF provides robust protection against physical and environmental damage, but it’s less customizable in terms of color and design compared to vinyl wraps.

Vinyl Wrap
Pros:

• Customization: Wide variety of colors, finishes (gloss, matte, satin), and designs.
• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper than colored PPF.
• Easier to Replace: Individual panels can be replaced if damaged.
• Lighter Protection: Offers some protection against minor scratches and UV rays.

Cons:

• Durability: More prone to scratches, fading, and wear and tear compared to PPF.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 3-5 years before needing replacement.
• Maintenance: Requires careful maintenance to avoid damage.

Colored PPF
Pros:

• Superior Protection: Provides robust protection against scratches, chips, and environmental damage.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 7-10 years, offering long-term protection.
• Self-Healing: Many PPF products have self-healing properties that can repair minor scratches with heat.
• Maintenance: Easier to clean and maintain compared to vinyl wraps.

Cons:

• Cost: More expensive than vinyl wraps.
• Limited Customization: Fewer options for colors and finishes compared to vinyl.
• Installation: Requires professional installation to avoid bubbles and ensure a perfect fit.

Adding Logos on top of either vinyl or the PPF color changes should not be a concern. I would recommenced they either place the logos under the wrap or PPF for a engraved look and no chance of peeling. You can also go on top of the vinyl or PPF but I would suggest they make they bolden the logos so the decals don't come off easy during car washes.

Final Thoughts
I would suggest picking a colored PPF option if those color choices are offered to you by the installation company. If vinyl is your only option I would suggest putting ceramic coating on top of the vinyl to help with the UV but remember vinyl can easily scratch and ages very rapidly so in 1 year that vinyl begins not looking as great as when you first got it. We start our wraps at $3899 and our TPU PPF colors at $4899, so for $1k more I would highly recommended the TPU PPF.

You are more than welcome to call one of our team members for more information even if you are not in the LA area just for further education. 818 905 5678. Ask for Dean or Jason. If you are in the LA area and considering to wrap it please mention you are part of the forum and we have a $300 promo discount.

Great information and spot on. I was hell-bent on PPF when our local shop talked me back and down to vinyl. Reasons, colors, cost and with stainless steel we were not really protecting any paint. The several caveats were that our Beast is garage kept, and we did have it ceramic coated over the wrap. Did that on my Indy Pace car, and it protects the decals and have not put a rag to it in 3 years. Your information is invaluable to those trying to make the decision.

 

[rtfitch]

We do both vinyl wrap, ppf and colored ppf installation services.

Longevity of Vinyl Under PPF
When you apply vinyl under PPF, you generally extend the life of the vinyl significantly. The PPF acts as a protective barrier against UV rays, road debris, and general wear and tear, which means the exterior of the vinyl can stay in great shape much longer than the typical lifespan. In many cases, you can expect the vinyl to last as long as the PPF itself, often up to 7-10 years depending on the quality of the materials and installation. The problem with this method is PPF is heavier in weight and can pull the edges off the vinyl making both products lift. The 2nd problem is they are doing everything 2 times and should usually cost more than double. You would only choose this option if you don't have the color of your choice in PPF. There are over 300 colors to choose from though on the PPF.
Removing Vinyl Later On
Since your Cybertruck has a stainless steel body, you’re correct that you won’t face the traditional issues of paint damage when removing vinyl. However, it's still advisable to replace the vinyl before it starts to degrade, as older vinyl can become brittle and more challenging to remove cleanly. By keeping an eye on the condition of the PPF and underlying vinyl, you can plan for a timely replacement without much hassle.

Alternatives: Vinyl Alone vs. PPF
If you’re considering scrapping the wrap idea or going with just vinyl, here are some thoughts:

• Vinyl Alone: Vinyl wraps look fantastic and offer a wide range of customization options, but they are more delicate than PPF. They are prone to scratches, UV damage, and general wear and tear, meaning you might need to replace or repair them more frequently. The worst case I've seen was a vinyl wrap that oxidize within 3 months. This client lived by the beach and the car sat outside. Not a good feeling either way for both parties.
• PPF Alone: PPF provides robust protection against physical and environmental damage, but it’s less customizable in terms of color and design compared to vinyl wraps.

Vinyl Wrap
Pros:

• Customization: Wide variety of colors, finishes (gloss, matte, satin), and designs.
• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper than colored PPF.
• Easier to Replace: Individual panels can be replaced if damaged.
• Lighter Protection: Offers some protection against minor scratches and UV rays.

Cons:

• Durability: More prone to scratches, fading, and wear and tear compared to PPF.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 3-5 years before needing replacement.
• Maintenance: Requires careful maintenance to avoid damage.

Colored PPF
Pros:

• Superior Protection: Provides robust protection against scratches, chips, and environmental damage.
• Longevity: Typically lasts 7-10 years, offering long-term protection.
• Self-Healing: Many PPF products have self-healing properties that can repair minor scratches with heat.
• Maintenance: Easier to clean and maintain compared to vinyl wraps.

Cons:

• Cost: More expensive than vinyl wraps.
• Limited Customization: Fewer options for colors and finishes compared to vinyl.
• Installation: Requires professional installation to avoid bubbles and ensure a perfect fit.

Adding Logos on top of either vinyl or the PPF color changes should not be a concern. I would recommenced they either place the logos under the wrap or PPF for a engraved look and no chance of peeling. You can also go on top of the vinyl or PPF but I would suggest they make they bolden the logos so the decals don't come off easy during car washes.

Final Thoughts
I would suggest picking a colored PPF option if those color choices are offered to you by the installation company. If vinyl is your only option I would suggest putting ceramic coating on top of the vinyl to help with the UV but remember vinyl can easily scratch and ages very rapidly so in 1 year that vinyl begins not looking as great as when you first got it. We start our wraps at $3899 and our TPU PPF colors at $4899, so for $1k more I would highly recommended the TPU PPF.

You are more than welcome to call one of our team members for more information even if you are not in the LA area just for further education. 818 905 5678. Ask for Dean or Jason. If you are in the LA area and considering to wrap it please mention you are part of the forum and we have a $300 promo discount.

 

[rtfitch]

I do have a quick question, though, as I forgot to ask or local guys. Traditional, we adorn our 4 wheeled sleighs, during the holidays, with magnetic Christmas lights. It's only for a few weeks and has not been a problem on our Jeep or Pickup. But will small magnetic appliques damage the vinyl and will they stay on at highway speeds with the ceramic coating? Have not tested this but thought I would ask before I did a field test. Thanks.

 

[Stickercity]

I do have a quick question, though, as I forgot to ask or local guys. Traditional, we adorn our 4 wheeled sleighs, during the holidays, with magnetic Christmas lights. It's only for a few weeks and has not been a problem on our Jeep or Pickup. But will small magnetic appliques damage the vinyl and will they stay on at highway speeds with the ceramic coating? Have not tested this but thought I would ask before I did a field test. Thanks.

I have never come across this to give you my honest answer but logistically if the 2 products are magnetically bonding I don't see a reason why they shouldn't work with one another. If they bonded via adhesion I would say you would be losing your Christmas lights. If you don't want to damage your wrap I would highly recommended cleaning the areas where you will be applying the magnets. As long as the magnets do not move or vibrate heavily during driving you shouldn't see a problem.

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