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In this blog post, you’ll learn the answer to the question, “Can you pressure wash paint protection film?” If you’ve damaged your paint from improper pressure washer usage, contact Sunbusters Window Tinting Limited to schedule professional paint protection film installation in Austin, TX.
Many people who take their car’s paint seriously avoid automatic car washes like the plague because the rough brushes and high water pressure damage paint. You’ll even see signs at most car washes stating that they aren’t responsible for any damage to your paint.
Going through a self-serve car wash with paint protection film isn’t much better because you still don’t have control over pressure, and the rough brush has the same ability to scratch your car as the automatic washes.
Using your own machine with safe pressure washer settings is a great alternative. You can set your own pressure, control distance more easily, and take other precautions to ensure you don’t damage your paint or the PPF protecting it.
You might think that only commercial pressure washers can damage your car, but even consumer-grade models can cause edge lifting and film damage. When you use a pressure washer to wash your car without the proper experience, the high pressure will likely cause the PPF to lift at its edges and eventually peel away.
Following the right pressure washing tips ensures the safety and integrity of your vehicle.
If you insist on pressure washing your car with paint protection film, it’s important to use the correct settings. Check the pressure washer and look for the manufacturer’s recommended pressure settings. If possible, use a wide spray pattern and maintain a safe distance between the nozzle and your car’s surface.
Don’t spray directly at the edges of the film, as high pressure can cause them to lift and peel. Even if you don’t notice the damage right away, a small lifted section can quickly grow into a larger tear.
The best way to protect your paint and PPF from damage is to hire a professional detailing company with experience washing cars with PPF installed. A professional company will use specialized car wash soap and sponges, along with a high-quality synthetic wax or sealer, to safely clean your car.
These professional companies also understand which chemicals to avoid, such as degreasers, carb cleaners, and natural paste waxes.
If you’re still wondering, “Can you pressure-wash paint protection film?” the short answer is sometimes, but only if you use the correct settings. If you’ve damaged your PPF with a pressure washer, call Sunbusters Window Tinting Limited at (512) 794-8468 to schedule installation.
Make sure you check out our other blog post on how to fix scratches for tips on removing scratches from paint protection film.