STEK FAQS

STEK recommends hand-washing cars protected with PPF. Test any wax or after-market sealant before applying to the PPF. Extremely hydrophobic PPF topcoats like HYDROphobe® on DYNOshield® may interfere with application of wax or other coatings. Do not use pigmented or abrasive waxes or waxes containing naphtha or kerosene. Do not use any abrasive pads or harsh chemicals on the film. Remove contamination ( bird droppings, tar, bugs) as soon as possible to avoid any staining or damage to the film. stubborn stains can be removed with isopropyl alcohol Avoid using isopropyl alcohol in direct sunlight or if the film is hot. Avoid directly spraying the edges of the PPF with a pressure washer or a nozzle. If using a high-pressure washer keep the nozzle at least 36 away.

The following list is a summary of best practices for installing and caring for STEK top-coated thermal polyurethane (TPU) paint protection films and are included for your review and for review with your customers. STEK strongly recommends that you follow these guidelines to assure a quality installation.

1. STEK top coated paint protection film (PPF) has a self-healing ability so light scratches can be removed by hot water or the use of a heat gun over the affected area. Note that if a scratch penetrates the topcoat, it will not self heal. This is a characteristic of any top coated PPF.

2. During installation take care to avoid scratching from installation tools. We recommend using a rubber type squeegee for the installation (e.g., yellow or green Turbo squeegee). Even with the use of a rubber squeegee scratches may occur. Therefore, please test your tools before installation to determine whether or not your tools will scratch.

3. Installation should be done in the clean area protected from airborne dust and other particulates that could result in surface scratching during installation.

4. Please test any wax or after-market sealant before applying to the PPF. Not all products are compatible with all PPF topcoats. Extremely hydrophobic PPF topcoats may interfere with application of wax or other coatings.

5. STEK recommends hand-washing cars protected with PPF. Although the topcoat may have self-healing abilities, using automated car washes increases the likelihood of surface scratching. Although minor scratches can be recovered more severe marks might not recover if, as noted, the scratch penetrates the topcoat.

6. Although STEK PPF is highly resistant to cracking, lift lines, and “chicken-skinning” be aware that applying too much force/stretching may damage the film. STEK PPF has enough flexibility for installation on tight corners, in depressions, etc. but the material does have its limits. We recommend practicing/testing stretch-ability prior to your first installation(s) to determine the limits based on your personal application methods and style. Note that you can also use a heat gun when the PPF is stretched to increase flexibility. Again, we recommend that you test the material in advance.

7. Maintenance and Care Instructions (PPF and Top coated PPF)

* a. Do not wash the vehicle for 48 hours after installation.
*b. Avoid directly spraying the edges of the PPF with a pressure washer or a nozzle. Doing so may lift the edge of the film. If using a high pressure washer keep the nozzle at least 36” from the film surface (and avoid spraying the edges).
*c. Do not use pigmented or abrasive waxes or waxes containing naphtha or kerosene.*d. Do not use any abrasive pads or harsh chemicals on the film.*e. If choosing to wax the car and film (after testing for compatibility) do so at least once every 6 months.*f. Remove stains as soon as possible. Stubborn stains can be removed with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid wiping the film in direct sunlight or if the film is hot.