Ottawa's highways are notorious for paint damage. Between the gravel and salt spread across the 417 and 174 every winter, the construction debris flying off trucks in spring, and summer bug splatter baking onto your hood — your vehicle's finish is under constant attack. Paint protection film (PPF) is the only solution that physically shields your paint from this damage, keeping your vehicle looking factory-fresh for years.
Benefits of Paint Protection Film
- Self-healing technology — minor scratches and swirl marks vanish with heat from the sun or warm water
- Optically clear film that enhances your paint's gloss and depth without altering its colour
- Protection against rock chips, road salt, bug acids, bird droppings, and UV fading
- Preserves resale value by keeping paint in pristine condition underneath
- Long-lasting durability — professional-grade PPF lasts 7-10 years with proper care
- Stain-resistant top coat repels contaminants and simplifies washing
Our PPF Installation Process
- Vehicle inspection and paint condition assessment — we identify existing imperfections before starting
- Thorough wash and paint decontamination to remove embedded contaminants
- Paint correction on covered areas to ensure a flawless surface under the film
- Precision cutting using digital templates tailored to your exact vehicle make and model
- Wet application and careful squeegee work to eliminate bubbles and ensure perfect adhesion
- Edge wrapping and final inspection under controlled lighting to verify seamless coverage
Coverage Options
Partial Front-End Protection
Our partial front-end package covers the areas most vulnerable to rock chip damage — the hood, front bumper, fenders, side mirrors, and door edges. This is the most popular option for Ottawa commuters who want essential protection against highway debris without the investment of full coverage.
Full-Body Coverage
Full-body PPF wraps every painted surface on your vehicle, providing uniform protection and a consistent finish. This option is especially popular with owners of higher-value vehicles, new car buyers looking to preserve their investment from day one, and anyone who wants the ultimate peace of mind against paint damage.
A single winter of highway commuting in Ottawa can cause dozens of rock chips on an unprotected hood and bumper. PPF prevents this damage entirely — and the self-healing film means even light surface scratches disappear on their own.
Things to Consider
- PPF works best when applied to paint in good condition — existing chips and scratches should be addressed first
- Installation takes 1-5 days depending on coverage area and vehicle complexity
- Avoid pressure washing directly on film edges and skip automated car washes with brushes
- PPF pairs exceptionally well with ceramic coating for the ultimate protection stack
- Removal after the film's lifespan should be done by a professional to avoid paint damage
Why Choose Garage Knights for PPF
At Garage Knights, every PPF installation is performed in our controlled environment to minimize dust and contaminants. We use only premium, manufacturer-backed films and precision-cut digital templates for each vehicle. Our technicians are trained in advanced wrapping techniques including full edge wrapping and complex curve application — the details that separate a good installation from an invisible one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does paint protection film last?
Quality PPF professionally installed at Garage Knights typically lasts 7-10 years. The film maintains its clarity and self-healing properties throughout its lifespan when properly maintained.
Can PPF be removed without damaging the paint?
Yes. Professional-grade PPF is designed for clean removal. When removed by a trained technician, it leaves no residue or damage to the underlying paint.
Does PPF work in Ottawa's extreme cold?
Absolutely. Modern PPF is engineered to perform in extreme temperatures, from Ottawa's -30°C winters to our hot summers. The film remains flexible and protective year-round.
Should I get paint correction before PPF installation?
We recommend it. Any imperfections in the paint will be locked under the film. We include paint correction on covered areas as part of our installation process to ensure a flawless result.
Can you apply ceramic coating over PPF?
Yes, and we highly recommend it. A ceramic coating on top of PPF adds hydrophobic properties, making the film easier to clean and adding an extra layer of UV protection. This is our most popular combination.
What areas of the vehicle are most important to protect?
For Ottawa drivers, the hood, front bumper, and fenders are critical — these areas take the most impact from highway gravel. Door edges, side mirrors, and rocker panels are also high-risk zones we recommend protecting.
