Before PPF protective film reaches the body, every detail must be perfectly prepared. In this post, we will show you what the professional process of preparing a car for PPF application looks like, step by step, while maintaining the highest standards of detailing.
Site and vehicle preparation
Before we start work, we remove all the elements that could scratch the paintwork, jewelry, watches, belts with metal buckles. We put on protective gloves and dismantle license plates and small elements that could interfere with washing.
Pre-wash, active foam
We start the process with pre-washing with active foam. This is a key stage that allows you to dissolve and detach the biggest dirt even before the glove comes into contact with the paint. We use neutral foams with high stability, such as ADBL Yeti or ADBL Yeti Pearl. After a few minutes, the foam is rinsed off and the body is ready for proper washing. protective gloves and dismantle license plates and small elements that could interfere with washing.
Proper washing, the two-bucket method
The next stage is contact washing with a shampoo with a neutral pH, e.g. ADBL Shampoo Be Neutral . We use a microfiber glove and wash the car using the detailing method using two buckets. Brushing the gaps should be left to the very end to avoid scratches caused by sand hidden in the edges. We do not forget about door recesses and hinges, these are places from which impurities often flow during the application of the film. ADBL APC in working dilution is ideal for cleaning them.
Chemical decontamination, metal filings, tar, resin
After washing, we move on to chemical decontamination. We start by removing metal swarf using ADBL Vampire Liquid. This product reacts effectively with metal particles that settle on paint and rims. We plan and flush. Then we use ADBL Tar Remover Thixotropic, a preparation with natural citrus oils, which removes tar and asphalt. It works best on a dry surface, so after rinsing the car thoroughly, it should be dried thoroughly.
Mechanical decontamination, clay
After the chemical stages are completed, it is time to clay the varnish. We use ADBL Slippy lubricant, which minimizes friction and prevents micro-scratches. After each panel, it is worth checking the surface with your hand, it should be perfectly smooth.
Details, edge brushing and rinsing
Finally, we move on to brushing crevices and edges using ADBL APC or ADBL APC Typhoon. This is the stage that often determines the cleanliness of the installation. Even a single grain of sand can be seen under the foil after it has dried. Professionals also use the method of rinsing the edges without pressure, gentle rinsing with a hose or a low-pressure washer allows you to bring out dirt hidden deep in the crevices.
Ready for application
When all stages are completed, the body is clean, smooth and free of debris. The car can be dried using ADBL Twisted Towel towels, which do not leave fibers on the surface. The varnish prepared in this way is ready for polishing and degreasing before applying the PPF film.
Summary
Professional surface preparation is the key to a perfect PPF application. Every step counts, from active foam, to decontamination, to edge cleaning. At ADBL Protect, we believe that a clean surface is the foundation of a studio’s lasting protection and image.
