Does Rain Affect the Car After Applying Paint Protection Film?
2 Answers
It is best to avoid exposure to rain immediately after applying the paint protection film. The film has not yet fully bonded with the car's paint, and there may still be small air bubbles that need to be removed through drying. Additionally, the edges of the newly applied film are not very secure, so it is advisable to let the car sit for a few more days to allow the film to adhere more firmly. Detailed explanations are as follows: 1. Avoid using high-pressure water jets: If the film has perfectly bonded with the car's paint, rain will not affect it, as water cannot penetrate the film. However, within the first month after application, it is best not to use high-pressure water jets to spray the seams of the paint protection film intensely, as this could loosen the edges and reduce its protective effect. 2. Car washing precautions: When washing the car, avoid scratching the film's surface with hard objects or scrubbing it too hard, as scratches and wear marks can affect the film's shine and overall appearance.
I personally experienced the hassle of sudden rain after getting a car wrap. Last summer, just a few hours after applying the film to my beloved car, a heavy rainstorm hit. Water seeped under the edges of the wrap, causing numerous bubbles that felt sticky to the touch. I panicked and immediately contacted the installer. The technician explained that newly applied films require 24 to 48 hours to cure, and if moisture gets in during this period, it can damage the adhesive, leading to peeling edges or unsightly stains. He advised me to gently dry the surface with a clean, soft cloth, avoiding immediate sun exposure or washing, and to check for repairs once the weather dried out. Since then, I've learned to choose dry days for film application to avoid unexpected rain—while rain can wash away dust, it's truly annoying for uncured car wraps.
