Quick summary
PPF is a clear urethane film that takes the hits your paint would otherwise absorb. At Glossmith we install genuine XPEL Ultimate Plus and 3M Scotchgard Pro 200 — self-healing, warrantied, and virtually invisible. Coverage ranges from high-impact zones (bumper, bonnet, mirrors) to full-body wraps. Typical turnaround is 1–3 days depending on coverage.
What paint protection film is
Paint protection film is a transparent, flexible urethane layer applied directly over your vehicle's factory paint. It's measured in microns of thickness and engineered to absorb the physical impacts of daily driving — gravel, sand, insect acids, light abrasion — so the paint beneath stays untouched. Quality film is self-healing: light swirls and marks vanish with heat from the sun or warm water.
Unlike a coating, PPF is a physical barrier. It's the only product that meaningfully protects against stone chips, which are the most common source of paint damage on Kenyan roads.
The benefits
- Stops stone chips, scratches and road-rash on the panels that take the most abuse
- Self-healing top layer erases fine swirl marks with heat
- Preserves resale value by keeping original paint flawless
- Virtually invisible — gloss or matte finishes available
- Protects against bird droppings, tree sap and insect acids that etch paint
- Backed by genuine XPEL / 3M manufacturer warranties
Limitations — what it won't do
PPF is impact protection — that's its job, and only that. It won't add the deep gloss and easy-clean behaviour of a ceramic coating; that's a separate product. Very deep gouges that reach the paint can still mark the film. And PPF should go on clean, corrected paint: any swirls or contamination underneath get sealed in, so we prep first. Non-genuine film can yellow over time, which is why we fit only XPEL and 3M.
Coverage options
Most owners start with a full-front package — it covers the panels that catch 90% of road debris. Full-body wraps give complete protection and are popular on new and high-value vehicles.
Our process
- Inspection & quote. We assess the paint, agree coverage, and confirm pricing before anything starts.
- Decontamination & wash. The car is deep-cleaned so nothing is trapped under the film.
- Paint correction (if needed). Swirls and defects are polished out so the film seals in perfect paint.
- Precision fitting. Film is cut to your vehicle's pattern and hand-laid with wrapped edges for a seamless look.
- Curing & inspection. The film sets, then we inspect every edge before handover.
Maintenance & aftercare
PPF is low-maintenance. Wait about a week before the first wash to let edges fully seal. After that, wash normally — hand wash is kindest. Avoid pressure-washing directly at film edges. A ceramic coating can be layered over PPF for extra gloss and even easier cleaning. Self-healing works with heat, so minor marks fade in the sun.
What affects your price
- Coverage chosen — partial front through full body
- Vehicle size and panel complexity (curves and recesses take longer)
- Film brand and finish (gloss vs matte)
- Condition of the paint and whether correction is required first
Estimated turnaround: 1–3 days depending on coverage. Final pricing depends on vehicle condition and is confirmed before work begins.
Frequently asked questions
What is paint protection film?
A clear, self-healing urethane film applied over your paint. It absorbs chips and scratches so the paint stays flawless, while staying virtually invisible.
How long does PPF last?
Genuine XPEL and 3M film typically lasts 5–10 years depending on care and sun exposure, and carries a manufacturer warranty.
Is PPF better than ceramic coating?
They do different jobs — PPF is physical impact protection, ceramic is a chemical gloss-and-clean layer. Many owners combine both. See our PPF vs ceramic guide.
How much does PPF cost in Kenya?
It depends on coverage, vehicle size and film brand. Build a live estimate and we'll confirm after inspecting the car.
Key takeaways
- PPF is the only product that physically prevents stone chips and scratches.
- Glossmith installs genuine XPEL and 3M film only; both are self-healing and warrantied 5–10 years.
- Coverage ranges from partial front to full body; typical turnaround is 1–3 days.
- For gloss and easier cleaning, pair PPF with a ceramic coating.