Seattle Clear Bra VentureShield Paint Protection Film
What is a “clear bra”?
A clear bra is a clear, thermoplastic urethane film that is applied to a vehicle to protect it from rocks, bugs, any any other road debris that could damage the paint of your vehicle. Most often this film is applied to the front end of a vehicle but can even cover the entire car for maximum protection. Many auto manufacturers install paint protection film from the factory or as options at the dealership. More often than not unfortunately, these come at a high price and the installation is done quickly rather then carefully.
What are the benefits of having a clear bra on my vehicle?
First and foremost, clear bra is about protecting your vehicle from the elements. While it wont stop a large stone from damaging your vehicle, it will keep it protected from the everyday bits of small debris you encounter. While this is nice for aesthetic reasons, it is also an investment in the value of your vehicle. If the clear bra remains unbreached, the paint beneath will look good as new if you ever decide to remove the film.
What are the down sides to clear bra?
On most standard kit clear bra installations, the film only covers the leading 18 inches of the hood and enough of the fenders (usually four to six inches) to line up with the end of the hood. This will leave a slightly visible line across the hood and fenders. To some this is not an issue, to those that do find this unsightly and want even more protection, we offer the full frontal install. This will cover the entirety of the front end of the vehicle giving the most possible protection as well as being next to invisible. **Its important to note that, consistent maintenance is required to maintain the clarity and appearance of the film, as neglect can lead to dull or discolored film not covered by manufacturers warranty.**
As a side note: Paintwork which has been not applied per industry standards, may complicate film installation as well as removal. Feel free to ask for further clarification.
I have heard there are several major companies who offer the clear bra film, which do you use and why?
Here at NorthWest Auto Salon, we take great pride in only using the best products on the market. From our waxes to our clear bra film, we make sure that nothing but the highest quality products are used to protect your car. We select the products to use based on our customers needs and are constantly testing all the films available to find the films which best suit your needs. Currently our choice is VentureShield for our installs. VentureShield is a clear, thermoplastic urethane film made from 100% aliphatic resin. It’s ability to resist yellowing, and offer the highest level of abrasion resistance is unparalleled in the industry.
Many consumers don’t know the difference between the current “clear bra” products on the market but VentureShield is the leading Paint Protection product. Check out some examples of our work below!
Click on the image below of this Ferrari Scuderia and check out the write up we did on the full frontal clear bra process as well as the video!
Here is an example of a standard kit install we did on brand new 2011 Subaru WRX STi. Click on the image to check out the write up and video we made of its clear bra process!
What sets us apart from our competitors?
One word sets what we do at NorthWest Auto Salon apart from other installers of clear bra in the area; Quality. Not only do we use the highest quality film on the market today but we make sure you receive the best installation possible. Many companies use pre-cut kits of film made for “your” vehicle. However, nothing will give you as much coverage and protection as a fully custom install tailored exactly to your car. Think of it as you would a fine suit. Do you think one bought off the shelves of a department store will fit you as well as one made for you by a tailor? The installation process is a very delicate one and not to be done by inexperienced hands. Check out this Audi RS4 that came in for a clear bra removal and reinstall because of the extremely low quality of the first install.
Notice all the needless and unsightly seams in the clear bra? Not only do they detract from the look of the vehicle but these are on the a place where the vehicle needs protection the most, the front bumper! Having this many seams on a vehicles front end make it susceptible to lifting at the edges and puts your vehicles paint at risk. Like I said before, the installation of a custom clear bra is a delicate process due to the fact that a razor is needed to cut each piece to fit. If done without taking the proper care, it is possible to cut into the paint below. Look at the razor marks left on this same RS4.
All of this could have been avoided if the car had simply been brought to an experienced installer in the first place. Here are some pictures of how those same parts of the car look after we finished installing our clear bra.
Have a hard time telling that it’s even there? That is what sets us apart from other clear bra installers! Click here to schedule your auto detail & clear bra appointment today!
