Understanding the Differences Between PPF and Ceramic Coating
Protecting your vehicle’s paint is one of the smartest ways to maintain its value and keep it looking new for years. Two of the most popular and effective methods today are Paint Protection Film (PPF) and Ceramic Coating. Both serve different purposes but share one goal: preserving your car’s finish from wear, weather, and everyday driving hazards.
At Speed Projects Laboratory, an XPEL Certified Installation Facility located just one block from the Richmond Automall on No. 6 Road and Westminster Highway, we specialize in both XPEL Paint Protection Film and XPEL FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating. Our Richmond and Vancouver clients trust us for precision installation, industry-leading products, and long-term protection backed by XPEL’s manufacturer warranty.
What Is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?
Paint Protection Film, also known as clear bra, is a transparent urethane layer applied directly to your vehicle’s painted surfaces to shield it from chips, scratches, and road debris.
At Speed Projects Laboratory, we use XPEL’s premium self-healing paint protection films, including ULTIMATE PLUS™ for a high-gloss finish and STEALTH™ for a smooth satin look. These advanced films help preserve your vehicle’s paint from harsh elements, road contaminants, and surface abrasions while maintaining an OEM-quality appearance.
One of the biggest advantages of PPF is its self-healing properties. Minor scratches disappear when exposed to heat or sunlight, keeping your car looking flawless for years. Professionally installed XPEL PPF can last up to 10 years and comes with a transferable manufacturer warranty when installed by an XPEL Certified Facility like Speed Projects Laboratory.
Installing PPF through an unauthorized or uncertified shop voids the warranty, which is why certification matters. As a certified XPEL partner, we guarantee genuine film, expert installation, and full coverage under XPEL’s warranty program.
What Is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic Coating is a liquid polymer applied to your car’s exterior that bonds at the molecular level to form a durable, hydrophobic surface.
We exclusively offer XPEL FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating, designed to protect your vehicle from UV damage, fading, oxidation, and environmental contaminants. FUSION PLUS creates a deep, reflective gloss while making the surface slick to the touch and easier to clean.
Beyond its beautiful finish, FUSION PLUS™ provides resistance to light scratches and insect acids while repelling dirt, water, and chemicals. It is engineered for multiple surface types, including paint, glass, wheels, plastic trim, and interior surfaces.
Once applied, the coating lasts 3 to 5 years with proper care, maintaining your vehicle’s high-gloss look and simplifying routine cleaning.
PPF vs Ceramic Coating: What’s the Difference?
While both PPF and Ceramic Coating enhance protection and appearance, they do so in distinct ways.
PPF acts as a physical shield, protecting your vehicle’s paint from chips, scratches, and road debris. Ceramic coating forms a chemical and UV barrier, improving shine, resisting oxidation, and repelling dirt and liquids.
Here’s a direct comparison:
| Feature | XPEL Paint Protection Film (PPF) | XPEL FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating |
|---|---|---|
| Protection Type | Physical impact and abrasion | UV, chemical, and oxidation barrier |
| Durability | 7–10 years | 3–5 years |
| Self-Healing | Yes | No |
| Hydrophobic Effect | Moderate | Strong |
| Gloss Finish | Natural or satin (STEALTH™) | Deep, mirror-like gloss |
| Ideal For | High-impact areas and full-body protection | Easy cleaning and added shine |
Both options complement each other perfectly. Many clients at Speed Projects Laboratory choose to combine PPF with Ceramic Coating for comprehensive protection. PPF guards against impact, while FUSION PLUS enhances gloss and adds a hydrophobic layer that keeps the surface cleaner for longer.
Which Protection Is Right for You?
Your choice depends on your driving environment and protection priorities.
If you frequently drive on highways, travel through construction zones, or simply want the highest level of defence against rock chips, PPF is the best choice. It delivers unmatched impact resistance, making it ideal for high-performance or new vehicles.
If your goal is a sleek, glossy finish with minimal maintenance, ceramic coating is perfect. It protects against oxidation, fading, and water spotting while reducing the effort required to keep your car clean.
For drivers who want the ultimate combination of protection and shine, we recommend applying PPF to high-impact areas such as the hood, bumper, mirrors, and fenders, followed by XPEL FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating for enhanced gloss and hydrophobic performance.
Combining PPF and Ceramic Coating for Complete Vehicle Protection
While Paint Protection Film (PPF) and Ceramic Coating each offer strong benefits on their own, combining the two delivers the most comprehensive and long-lasting protection available for your vehicle.
PPF provides the physical defence your car needs against rock chips, scratches, and road debris. It absorbs impact, preventing damage that would otherwise reach your paint. However, while PPF is excellent at impact resistance, it doesn’t inherently offer strong hydrophobic or UV-repellent properties.
That’s where Ceramic Coating comes in. When applied over PPF, it creates a slick, glossy finish that enhances the film’s clarity, repels dirt and water, and provides additional chemical and UV protection. This dual-layer system not only makes the vehicle easier to clean but also keeps it looking freshly detailed for longer.
At Speed Projects Laboratory, we specialize in applying XPEL FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating on top of XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS™ or STEALTH™ PPF, ensuring a seamless integration between both layers. The result is a car that stays cleaner, resists scratches and staining, and maintains a deep gloss finish even under harsh BC driving conditions.
This combination is ideal for performance vehicles, Teslas, and luxury cars that demand both impact protection and a premium appearance. By choosing both, you get the best of both worlds, the defence of PPF and the shine and easy maintenance of Ceramic Coating — all backed by XPEL’s warranty and certified installation.
Why Paint Protection Matters in BC
British Columbia’s weather conditions can be harsh on vehicle paint. Constant rain, UV exposure, and gravel roads create ideal conditions for paint damage.
Drivers in Richmond and Vancouver face particular challenges from winter road salt and wet conditions that lead to surface corrosion and staining. Protecting your vehicle with XPEL PPF or FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating not only keeps your paint looking new but also preserves your investment against these local elements.
Maintenance and Aftercare
To get the most out of your protection, follow these care tips:
- Wash your vehicle regularly using a pH-neutral soap and microfiber towels.
- Avoid automatic car washes with brushes, which can mar the surface.
- For ceramic coating, use a FUSION PLUS™ maintenance spray every few months to renew hydrophobic performance.
- For PPF, avoid wax-based products and stick with sealants or coatings formulated for film.
- Schedule periodic inspections with our technicians to ensure your protection remains in perfect condition.
At Speed Projects Laboratory, we provide every client with aftercare guidance and ongoing support to maintain the longevity of their XPEL products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you apply Ceramic Coating over PPF?
Yes. Applying XPEL FUSION PLUS™ Ceramic Coating over PPF enhances gloss, adds hydrophobic protection, and simplifies cleaning.
Does XPEL PPF come with a warranty?
Yes. XPEL’s manufacturer warranty covers up to 10 years when installed by an authorized XPEL Certified Facility like Speed Projects Laboratory.
Will using an uncertified installer affect my warranty?
Yes. XPEL’s warranty is only valid when installed by certified partners. Unauthorized installations void coverage.
How long does Ceramic Coating last?
XPEL FUSION PLUS™ typically lasts 3 to 5 years with proper care and maintenance.
Do I still need to wash my car after coating or film installation?
Yes, but cleaning becomes easier and less frequent. Both products help repel dirt and reduce the need for aggressive washing.
Why Choose Speed Projects Laboratory
Speed Projects Laboratory is proud to be an XPEL Certified Installation Facility serving Richmond and Vancouver. As part of XPEL’s certified network, we provide clients with authentic products, expert installation, and warranty-backed protection.
Our shop is conveniently located just minutes from the Richmond Automall, making it easy to have your brand-new vehicle protected right after purchase. We offer XPEL’s full lineup of premium protection products, including ULTIMATE PLUS™, STEALTH™, and FUSION PLUS™.
With our certified expertise, we ensure every installation meets XPEL’s performance standards, giving you confidence, convenience, and results that last.
Visit Speed Projects Laboratory in Richmond BC
Protect your investment with Richmond and Vancouver’s trusted XPEL Certified Installer. Whether you’re interested in Paint Protection Film, Ceramic Coating, or both, our team at Speed Projects Laboratory will recommend the right solution based on your vehicle and driving needs.