XPEL Paint Protection Film (Clear Bra) in Washington, NJ
Appearance Plus installs XPEL paint protection film (clear bra) at our shop in Washington, NJ. XPEL is a self-healing film that protects against rock chips and scratches and is backed by a 10-year XPEL warranty. Pricing depends on the vehicle and how much of it you want covered, and we quote after an inspection. Customers come to us from Bedminster, Morristown, Long Valley and Flemington, and paid pickup and delivery is available.
Paint protection film, often called PPF or clear bra, is a clear, flexible urethane film applied directly over your vehicle's paint. It is much thicker than a wax or coating, so it absorbs the impact of rocks, sand and road debris that would otherwise chip the paint. On New Jersey highways and back roads, where winter grit and gravel get thrown at every front bumper, it is one of the most effective ways to keep the paint on the front of your car intact.
Quality film has a self-healing top layer. Light swirls and fine scratches in the film can relax and disappear with heat from the sun or warm water. The film is designed to be nearly invisible on the car, so the color and gloss of your paint still show through.
At Appearance Plus Auto Detailing & Powder Coating in Washington, NJ, Rob Torres prepares and installs film by hand inside our indoor shop, where the controlled environment keeps dust and debris from getting trapped under the film.
PPF only looks right if the paint underneath is clean and corrected and the film is installed carefully. Rob handles the prep and install himself at our Washington, NJ shop, and because detailing, body repair and powder coating are under one roof, chips and scratches can be dealt with properly before film goes down.
We serve Washington and nearby towns throughout Warren, Hunterdon and Morris Counties. Book online or call (908) 894-8147 to talk about coverage options and get a quote for your vehicle.
- Self-healing clear film
- Rock chip & debris defense
- High-impact area coverage
- Virtually invisible finish
What is clear bra / PPF?
Clear bra and PPF are two names for the same thing: a clear urethane film applied over painted panels. It takes the hit from stones, road debris and light scratches so your paint doesn't, and it's nearly invisible once installed.
Wash and decontamination
A full hand wash, iron fallout removal and clay bar treatment so the film goes down on a clean surface with nothing trapped underneath.
Paint inspection and prep polish
Film protects the paint as it is, defects included. We inspect the covered areas and polish as needed so the finish under the film looks its best.
Chip and damage review
Existing rock chips or scratches are pointed out before installation, with options for touch-up or body repair where it makes sense.
Precision-cut film
Film is cut to fit each panel, with pieces shaped around sensors, emblems and body lines.
Hand installation
Each piece is positioned with slip solution, then squeegeed to push out solution and air so the film lays smooth against the paint.
Wrapped edges where possible
Where the panel allows, edges are wrapped around the panel so the film line is hidden, which also helps prevent lifting and dirt buildup.
Final inspection
Every panel is checked under shop lighting for edges, alignment and trapped debris before the vehicle goes home.
XPEL film and 10-year warranty
We install XPEL film. Its top layer is self-healing, so light swirls and scuffs disappear with heat from the sun or warm water. XPEL backs its film with a 10-year warranty.
PPF coverage options and pricing
Pricing depends on the vehicle and how much coverage you want, from a partial front to the full body. Call (908) 894-8147 or book a consultation and we'll recommend coverage and give you a price.
Partial front
Coverage for the front bumper and the leading section of the hood and fenders, which take the most rock chips.
Full front
The full bumper, full hood, full fenders and mirror caps, which removes the visible film line across the hood.
Track pack
Full front coverage plus rocker panels, the area behind the wheels and the A-pillars and roof leading edge, for cars that see highways or spirited driving.
Full body
Film on every painted panel for the most complete protection against chips, scratches and daily wear.
Door cups, edges and high-wear spots
Small pieces for door handle cups, door edges, rear bumper load areas and luggage areas that pick up scratches from rings, keys and cargo.
Headlights and coating over film
Film on headlight lenses helps prevent pitting and yellowing. We can also apply our Ceramic Coatings service over the film, and pair film with Paint Correction beforehand.
PPF vs. ceramic coating
PPF is a physical barrier against chips; a ceramic coating adds gloss and makes washing easier but won't stop a stone. Many customers have a Ceramic Pro coating applied on top of the film for both.
Our PPF installation process
- 1
Consultation and coverage plan
We talk about how you drive, where the car sees the most wear and your budget, then recommend a coverage level.
- 2
Wash, decon and polish
The areas being covered are washed, decontaminated and polished so the paint is clean and at its best before it is sealed under film.
- 3
Film preparation
Pieces are prepared for each panel, and trim, badges or other parts are removed where needed for cleaner edges.
- 4
Installation
Rob installs the film panel by panel, stretching and positioning it carefully and wrapping edges wherever the design allows.
- 5
Settling and aftercare
Film needs time to fully settle. Small amounts of moisture may be visible at first and typically evaporate. We explain how long to wait before washing and how to care for the film.
PPF / clear bra FAQ
What is a clear bra?
Clear bra is another name for paint protection film (PPF): a clear, self-healing urethane film that protects paint from rock chips and scratches.
What PPF brand do you install?
We install XPEL, backed by a 10-year warranty.
How much does PPF cost?
It depends on the vehicle and how much coverage you want. Call (908) 894-8147 or book a consultation for a quote.
Can I put ceramic coating on top of PPF?
Yes, and many customers do, for extra gloss and easier washing.