Preparing Paint Before PPF Installation
Prepare paint for PPF by agreeing the finish, cleaning sequence and adhesion requirements with the film installer before installation.
Updated · NANOLAB Knowledge
Preparation before PPF has two goals: an acceptable visible finish and a surface suitable for the film’s installation process. A paint surface prepared for ceramic coating is not automatically ready for film adhesion, especially if protection products have been added.
Agree the visible finish first
Inspect clean paint for chips, scratches, repairs and contamination. Decide which defects can be improved appropriately and which will remain beneath the film. Do not promise that film will make all existing damage disappear.
Any polishing should preserve the paint and follow a tested process. Remove correction residue thoroughly, including material trapped around badges and trim.
Follow the film installation requirements
Coordinate final cleaning with the installer and the film’s instructions. Disclose previous coatings, waxes and sealants. Do not add a drying aid or gloss product after the final wash simply because it makes the paint feel smoother.
Keep clean panels protected from dust and handling while the installation area is prepared. Surface readiness should be confirmed at the point of installation, not assumed from the previous day’s wash.
Sequence later ceramic protection correctly
If a NANOLAB coating will be applied over the film, agree the film’s readiness and the coating’s compatibility in advance. Film settling and coating curing are separate processes with their own instructions.
Use the existing coating and PPF guide and coating on PPF compatibility. Record the complete sequence so the owner receives one coherent aftercare plan.
