Working in high temperatures can alter the behaviour of PPF. Once workshop temperatures climb above 25°C, installers may need to adapt their approach to maintain quality results. Here are some tips from our very own PPF installation experts:
1. Control Your Environment
Ideally, both the workshop and the vehicle should be kept between 18–21°C. A HVAC system is the best solution, but not always possible.
Avoid application on vehicles that have just arrived into your workshop: hot panels may cause the film to cure too quickly. Allow vehicles and film to climatise to room temperature before starting.
If your workshop has metal shutters facing direct sunlight, spray them with cold water. The shutters act like radiators, and cooling them down can significantly reduce the ambient temperature inside.
Avoid installing in direct sunlight,including installation bays with south-facing windows, which can create intense localised heat. Solar control window film (also manufactured by Profilm) will reject solar energy and help to keep the heat down.
A dehumidifier is also recommended, as rapid water evaporation raises humidity levels and further complicates installation.
2. Adjust Your Installation Solution
In hot conditions, water evaporates from the panels much faster than usual, so your standard slip solution mix will need adjusting. Increase your soap ratio gradually: try adding around half an extra portion and adjust as necessary.
The priority is keeping the panel consistently well-lubricated throughout the installation.
Using IPA in these climates can cause the film to adhere excessively, which reduces your chances of repositioning. We find that Warm Filtered Water works better for flushing edges.
Feel free to use your tack solution but do be cautious.
Never let the film sit dry on the panel.
3. Manage Curing
Paint Protection Films cure quicker in the heat. Larger water pockets will dry out on their own: avoid applying pressure onto these areas while the water dries out.
Film and adhesive both become softer in hot conditions, which many installers actually find helpful with harder topcoat PPF.
If you need to lift the film, take extra care — the section already laid down will have undergone a rapid cure. Soften the lift line, flush the area with slip solution, and keep it lubricated throughout.
4. Watch Out for Static and Contamination
Hot and dry conditions significantly increase static electricity in the workspace, which in turn attracts dust and contamination. To help manage this, follow the steps below:
Spray the floor and air in the installation bay to dissipate static.
Plot / cut the film during cooler times of the day — early morning or late evening. Cutting in cooler conditions generates less static and reduces dust attraction.
“If your workshop has metal shutters facing direct sunlight, spray them with cold water. The shutters act like radiators, and cooling them down can significantly reduce the ambient temperature inside.” – Luke & Kam
To summarise:
- Climatise vehicle and film before PPF application
- Adjust your installation solutions
- Keep the film well-lubricated during installs
- Cool metal shutters with cold water
- Plot/cut during cooler hours to reduce static / contamination
- Use a dehumidifier if available
Note: The advice above is intended as general guidance. Always test any changes to your mixing solutions before applying to a customer’s vehicle, and adjust based on your specific products and conditions.