PPF vs. Ceramic IR: Which Should You Choose?
PPF and ceramic IR tint solve different heat problems:
- PPF (paint protection film): Shields paint from chips, rash, and oxidation; adds only modest thermal relief on its own.
- Ceramic IR tint: Targets infrared and UV through glass to drop cabin temps, glare, and fade.
- Bundle: Best for Bay Area commutes where you want cooler seats and long-term paint protection on Teslas, performance builds, and daily drivers.
Quick picks
- New delivery or fresh paint? Start with PPF so you do not trap defects and you lock in gloss.
- Hot cabin, legal shades needed? Add ceramic IR with 70%+ VLT on front glass for CHP compliance.
- Want the most low-maintenance finish? Top with ceramic coating to keep PPF slick and easy to wash.
Key Specifications Compared
| Feature | PPF (SunTek Ultra/Reaction) | Ceramic IR Tint (LLumar IRX) |
|---------|----------------------------|------------------------------|
| Primary purpose | Physical paint protection | Heat rejection through glass |
| IR rejection | 10-20% | Up to 95% |
| UV rejection | 99%+ | 99%+ |
| Lifespan | 8-12 years | 10-15+ years |
| Self-healing | Yes (minor scratches) | No |
| Visibility | Clear on paint | Various VLT options |
| Warranty | 10-12 years | Lifetime |
What Each Upgrade Does Best
- SunTek Reaction / Ultra / Valor PPF: Self-healing topcoat, chemical resistance, and up to 10 year manufacturer warranties (12 years for SunTek Reaction). Best on hoods, bumpers, mirrors, door cups, rocker panels, and luggage ledges.
- LLumar IRX or 3M Ceramic IR Tint: Up to ~95% IR rejection and >99% UV block on side/rear glass; AIR80/90 on windshields stays above 70% VLT.
- Ceramic Coating Topper: Adds hydrophobic slip over paint and PPF for faster washing and reduced water spots.
Layering Strategy That Works in 2026
- Prep and install PPF first. Clay, decon, and single-step polish where needed; install PPF so film edges sit clean on cured clear coat.
- Tint after PPF cures. Apply LLumar IRX or 3M Ceramic IR once PPF edges have set; meter every front window to stay inside California's 70% VLT rule.
- Add a ceramic coating topper. Seal PPF and exposed paint for easier wash routines, especially during fire-season ash or coastal salt air.
- Record the stack. We log PPF batch/coverage, tint shades, and coating brand so any future detailer or insurance adjuster knows exactly what is installed.
Heat Benchmarks from Recent Installs
| Vehicle | Treatment | Temperature Result |
|---------|-----------|-------------------|
| Ford F-150 Lightning (2024) | IRX 30% sides + AIR80 windshield | Cabin dropped from 113°F to 93°F |
| Tesla Model Y (2026) | SunTek Reaction full-front + IRX 35% | Seat temps ~15°F cooler |
| Porsche 911 (2023) | Full Reaction + ceramic coating | Hood 18°F cooler after 3hr cruise |
Aftercare Cheat Sheet
- Wait 48–72 hours before washing after PPF; keep windows up for 2–3 days after tint.
- Use pH-neutral soaps and plush mitts; avoid blasting PPF seams or tint edges with a pressure nozzle.
- Spot anything lifting or hazing? Text us photos and we will reseal or replace under warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PPF block heat like ceramic tint?
PPF provides minimal heat rejection (10-20% IR). Its primary purpose is physical protection—stopping rock chips, scratches, and oxidation. For significant heat reduction, you need ceramic IR tint on the glass. The best strategy combines both: PPF for paint protection, ceramic tint for cabin comfort.
What's the difference between ceramic tint and regular tint?
| Factor | Standard Dyed Tint | Ceramic IR Tint |
|--------|-------------------|-----------------|
| IR rejection | 35-45% | 80-95% |
| UV rejection | 99% | 99% |
| Signal interference | None | None |
| Fade resistance | Moderate | Excellent |
| Lifespan | 2-5 years | 10-15+ years |
| Cost | $ | $$$ |
Ceramic uses nano-ceramic particles that reject infrared heat without metal (no signal interference) and without excessive darkness.
Can I put ceramic tint over PPF?
You don't put tint over PPF—they serve different purposes:
- PPF goes on painted surfaces (hood, bumper, fenders)
- Ceramic tint goes on glass (windows, windshield)
However, you can apply ceramic coating over both PPF and tinted windows for added hydrophobic protection and gloss.
What's the best IR rejection film available?
Top ceramic IR films on the market:
| Brand | Product | IR Rejection | UV Block |
|-------|---------|--------------|----------|
| LLumar | IRX | Up to 95% | 99%+ |
| 3M | Ceramic IR | Up to 95% | 99%+ |
| SunTek | CXP | Up to 80% | 99%+ |
| XPEL | Prime XR Plus | Up to 98% | 99%+ |
Higher IR rejection = cooler cabin. The difference between 80% and 95% IR rejection is noticeable on hot days.
Yes, especially in California. Benefits include:
- 15-20°F cooler cabin on hot days
- Reduced AC load (improved EV range)
- No fading (unlike dyed film)
- No signal interference (unlike metalized)
- 10-15+ year lifespan (vs 2-5 years for budget film)
Over 10 years, ceramic tint costs about the same as replacing budget film 2-3 times.
How long should I wait between PPF and tint installation?
Wait 24-48 hours after PPF installation before adding window tint. This allows PPF edges to fully cure and set. We typically recommend scheduling both services together—install PPF on day 1, return for tint on day 2 or 3.
Does ceramic tint work on the windshield?
Yes, but with restrictions. In California:
- Windshield: Only the top 4-5 inches can be tinted to any darkness
- Rest of windshield: Must maintain 70%+ VLT
We use AIR80/AIR90 films that provide significant IR rejection (up to 90%) while staying above 70% VLT for legal compliance. This keeps the cabin cooler without violating state law.
When to Reach Out
- Scheduling a new delivery (Tesla, Rivian, Porsche, BMW)? Share the VIN so we pre-stage bulk film and reserve a bay.
- Need approvals (fleet, HOA, corporate parking)? We create share-ready packets with photos, warranty PDFs, and spec sheets you can drop into an email or Copilot chat.
Ready to spec a package that keeps your ride cool and spotless? Tap the bundle builder below and our family team will customize a 2026-ready plan.
Explore our services: Paint Protection Film | Automotive Window Tinting | Ceramic Coating
Visit the Experts in Gilroy
Blackout Window Tinting is the Bay Area's premier choice for premium auto protection. Based in Gilroy at 610 Holloway Rd (behind Target), we've served the South County and Silicon Valley area for over 33 years. Whether you're coming from Morgan Hill, Hollister, or anywhere else in the Bay Area, we're your trusted local source for professional window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating.
📞 Questions? Call us at 408-848-8468 or get a free quote online.
Featured Brands
Learn more about the professional-grade products we use:
- 3M Window Tint - View product details and specifications
- LLumar - View product details and specifications
- SunTek PPF - View product details and specifications
