
Ceramic Coating vs PPF: What’s the Difference Between Paint Protection Films and Ceramic Coatings?

What Is Paint Protection Film (PPF)?
Paint Protection Film is a transparent, self-healing urethane film that’s applied to your car’s painted surfaces. It’s thick, durable, and designed to absorb physical damage before it ever reaches your paint.
At Alpha Auto Haus, we install high-performance PPF, which provides:
Protection against rock chips and road debris
Resistance to scratches, swirl marks, and hard water spots
Shielding from chemical stains and UV oxidation
A self-healing surface that restores itself under heat
PPF is ideal for high-impact areas like bumpers, hoods, fenders, mirror caps, and rocker panels, or full vehicle coverage for the ultimate defense.
What Is Ceramic Coating?
Ceramic Coating is a liquid polymer that chemically bonds with your paint (and even with PPF). It adds a slick, hydrophobic layer that repels water, dirt, and contaminants.
Our pro-grade coatings make your car:
Stay cleaner, longer
Easier to wash with fewer water spots
More resistant to UV fading and chemical stains
Glossier, with amplified depth and shine
But here’s what ceramic coating doesn’t do:
It won’t stop rock chips, deep scratches, or major swirl marks. That’s where PPF comes in.
Key Differences Between PPF and Ceramic Coating
Feature | Paint Protection Film | Ceramic Coating |
---|---|---|
Rock Chip Protection | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Scratch & Swirl Resistance | ✅ Yes (self-healing) | ⚠️ Minimal |
Chemical Stain Resistance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
UV & Oxidation Protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Hydrophobic Surface | ✅ Some (depends on film) | ✅ Extremely |
Enhanced Gloss | ✅ Slight | ✅ Yes |
Longevity | 10+ years w/ warranty | 2–5 years (depending on coating) |
