| Going into Business |
| Application/Maintenance/Removal |
| Film Sizes |
| Purchasing |
| Tools Required |
| Warranty |
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| Going into Business |
| Q. |
Where can I purchase Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
3M has Authorized Distributors throughout the United States that sell Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film in bulk rolls or pre-cut kits. Any one of the authorized converters can assist you with your paint protection film purchase. Visit the Where to Buy section on this website to find a complete list of authorized converters. 3M is referring all inquiries from certified installers to its Authorized Distributors. |
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| Q. |
How much does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film cost? |
| A. |
You may contact any of the 3M Authorized Distributors for pricing information. Their names and addresses are listed on this website under the "For a professional certified installer…" page in the Where to Buy section. |
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| Q. |
How do I become a professional certified installer and get started in the business of selling and installing Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
Contact any of the 3M Authorized Distributors in the Where to Buy section. They can provide information on pricing, training and any additional support you may need. |
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| Q. |
How do I get Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film installation training? |
| A. |
The Certified Training Facilites are listed on our website in the Where to Buy section, as well as the products and other services they offer. |
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| Q. |
Is there a step-by-step application video available for Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
Yes. Please call 1-888-663-1394 to request a video. 3M's website contains various written application instructions. The website also contains a listing of Certified Training Facilites who provide hands-on product application/installation training. It is important to know that 3M does not recommend film installation by anyone other than a professionally trained certified installer, so we highly recommend that you receive professional training. |
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| Q. |
Are there any marketing tools available for Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
We currently have a wide variety of marketing tools to help you sell Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film, ranging from customizable point-of-purchase posters to brochures, magnets and videos. All of this material can be ordered at: 3m.com/dealermarketing. |
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| Q. |
How am I granted access to the Dealer Marketing Kit? |
| A. |
After logging onto 3m.com/dealermarketing, click on "New User." Then fill out the profile. An e-mail requesting permission for access will be sent to your Authorized Conterter/Distributor. If you have been professionally trained, you will be granted access within 48 hours. A user ID and password will then be sent to you via e-mail. |
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| Q. |
Is there a website that contains additional information about Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
Many professional certified installers have extensive experience and can answer your questions or you can browse this website for additional information about Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film and a listing of suppliers. |
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| Application/Maintenance/Removal |
| Q. |
How should surfaces be prepared before application of Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
All surfaces must be cleaned prior to film application. Be sure to use a cleaner that will not leave a residue, such as Windex. On repainted vehicles, paint must be thoroughly dry and completely cured before any attempt to apply film to the vehicle is made, in order to avoid film bubbling due to paint outgassing. Check paint manufacturer's instructions for recommended cure time and method. To clean your vehicle's surface 3M suggests 3M™ Adhesive Cleaners (3M Part #08984 or #08987), a specially blended solvent for removal of adhesive residue, wax, grease, tree sap, road tar, oil and bugs. It will not harm most thoroughly cured automotive paint, vinyls or fabrics when properly used. |
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| Q. |
Is there a certain temperature at which Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film must be applied? |
| A. |
The film should be applied when air and application surface temperatures are between 55° F - 90° F (13° C - 32° C). Surfaces may be heated in order to raise the surface temperature. This may be done with a portable heater, heat lamps or hot water. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be applied dry? |
| A. |
The film must be applied wet. Follow the instructions below. |
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| Q. |
How is Scotchgard™ Paint Protection applied to a vehicle? |
| A. |
- Wet application is required for a clear appearance.
- Using a solution of soap and water, spray the application area on the vehicle, the adhesive side of the film and your fingers. This allows you to move the film into its desired position. Continually re-wet the film, the vehicle and your fingers with the soap and water solution throughout the application process. 3M suggests two drops of Johnson's Baby Shampoo to 16 ounces of water.
- Now it's time to secure the film in place, using a solution of 25% isopropyl alcohol and 75% water.
- NOTE: It's easier to work with half of the film at a time. Get the film into place on the first half and then move on to the other half.
- Lift the film up to the half-way point, and spray both sides of the film and the vehicle with the alcohol and water solution. Spraying the film with this solution will help wash the soap solution away and will allow the squeegee to slide easily. Keep the adhesive wet during application to facilitate repositioning.
- Now secure the film into the desired position. Some stretching may be required. Using the alcohol and water solution and a squeegee at the far end of the application, lock the film into place.
- Then spray the film again with the alcohol and water solution.
- Using the squeegee, work from the inside and slide the squeegee toward the edges of the film. This motion pushes out any remaining soap and water solution as well as any air bubbles that may have formed.
- Wipe the film off with a 3M™ Perfect-It™ III Detailing Cloth (3M Part #39016) to get a clear look at your application. Other types of cloths may scratch the surface of the film. There may still be some water pockets or air bubbles remaining. Re-wet the surface and your fingers with the alcohol and water solution, and re-squeegee.
- If you cannot get the air pockets out, the film can still be lifted at this point. Be sure to re-wet the film, the vehicle and your fingers. Use the same squeegee technique, starting at the middle of the film and sliding the squeegee to the edges of the film.
- Repeat this procedure on the second half of the film.
**Important Note: Some state Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) regulations may prohibit the use of this alcohol/water solution. For example, the California South Coast Air Quality Management District prohibits use of this solution without a permit, and other California AQMDs prohibit use of the solution without a permit or a regulatory exemption. You should check with your state environmental authorities to determine whether use of this solution is restricted or prohibited.
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| Q. |
Will Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film harm the painted surface if the film is removed? |
| A. |
If the film is properly applied to a fully cured painted vehicle, it can be removed, usually in one piece, without damaging paint surfaces beneath the film. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be applied over a vehicle that has had the paint touched up? |
| A. |
3M recommends that any repainted surfaces on your vehicle be professionally painted and fully cured before applying paint protection film. If you have touched up scratches or chips with a tube of "touch-up" paint and then apply paint protection film over it, the film will protect that area until it is removed. If the paint protection film is removed, it is possible that the area around the non-professional touch-up paint could peel off. |
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| Q. |
Will the paint smear if Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is applied over a newly painted vehicle? |
| A. |
The paint on a newly painted vehicle must be cured according to that manufacturer's recommendations. Your body shop should be able to provide you with this information. |
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| Q. |
Can you paint or apply a clearcoat over the Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
No, this is not recommended and is at your own risk. 3M film is supplied with an OEM-approved clearcoat which is not formulated to be over-printed, painted or clearcoated. |
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| Q. |
Can I cover the whole vehicle with Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
It is possible, but the application would be difficult and expensive. This product is really intended for the most vulnerable areas of the vehicle. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be applied over graphics? |
| A. |
The clear film will not interfere with vinyl or painted graphics and is designed to match the gloss levels of today's automotive factory clearcoat paint systems, providing virtually invisible protection. However, if the Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is removed, damage may occur to the underlying graphic during the removal process. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be used on headlights or windshields? |
| A. |
No, it does not meet the Department of Transportation's standards for optical clarity. |
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| Q. |
Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film stick to bumpers? |
| A. |
Yes. |
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| Q. |
Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film stick to plastic? |
| A. |
Yes. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be used on boats or other watercraft? |
| A. |
Yes, but Marine requirements are different than automotive, so it is important to contact 3M's Marine Trades Division for information on these applications. For specific information, please call 3M Marine at 1-877-366-2746 for assistance. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be used on aircraft? |
| A. |
Aircraft requirements are completely different than automotive, so it is important to contact 3M's Aerospace Division for information on these applications. Please call 1-888-364-3577 for assistance or use the on-line 3M Aerospace Contact Us form. |
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| Q. |
Can Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film be used for signs? |
| A. |
The film would probably stick, but you would need to test any specific application. 3M has no specific testing data for signs, so no warranty can be offered. |
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| Q. |
Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film resist yellowing? |
| A. |
Yes, it resists yellowing because the film is constructed of thermoplastic urethane, a tough, conformable material that is covered by a clear coat layer. The film and clear coat layers contain UV protectants to counteract harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause yellowing. |
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| Q. |
Does Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film come in colors? |
| A. |
Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is available only as a clear film. This feature makes the film virtually invisible while protecting the beauty of your vehicle. |
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| Q. |
How is Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film maintained? |
| A. |
Once applied, refrain from washing the vehicle in an automated car wash for 24 hours. Washing after that time presents no problem, and no special care need be taken for the film. |
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| Q. |
Can I use wax over Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
Yes. When waxing the vehicle, some wax may build up along the film edges. This can easily be removed when dry with a soft brush such as an old toothbrush. Do not use any waxes containing dyes or waxes that are not recommended for urethanes. Abrasive polishes and/or rubbing compounds are not to be used. |
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| Q. |
What products does 3M recommend to best maintain Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
3M makes a variety of products to help maintain the beauty of your vehicle. 3M™ Car Wash Soap (3M Part #39000), 3M™ Show Car Paste Wax (3M Part #39526) and 3M™ Perfect-It Show Car Liquid Wax (3M Part #39026). The best surface cloth to use is the 3M™ Perfect-IT™ III Detailing Cloth (3M Part #39016) since others may scratch the surface of the film. |
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| Q. |
How is Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film removed? |
| A. |
If desired, film can be removed at any time by picking up a corner of the film and pulling the film off the vehicle surface from a 30 to 90-degree angle. If the film has been present a long time, or if the film and vehicle are cold, a heat gun or hair dryer may be used to soften the adhesive, allowing easier removal. If any adhesive remains on the vehicle after removal of the film, it can be removed by using 3M™ General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner (3M Part #08984 or 3M Part#08987), 3M™ Woodgrain and Stripe Adhesive Remover (3M Part #08908) according to the package directions. |
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| Q. |
If Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is removed from the vehicle, can it be re-used? |
| A. |
Once the film has been applied and set, the adhesive will not stick a second time. |
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| Q. |
After Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film has been removed, how do I get the adhesive off my vehicle? |
| A. |
If any adhesive remains on the vehicle after removal of the film, it can be removed by using 3M™ General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner (3M Part #08984 or 3M Part #08987), according to the package directions. |
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| Q. |
What if Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film is installed incorrectly? |
| A. |
Contact your Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film professional certified installer immediately. |
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| Film Sizes |
| Q. |
What sizes are available in Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
| 8-mil thickness: |
14-mil thickness: |
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| 4" x 84"* |
1" x 12.5 yards* |
| 6" x 84"* |
6" x 20 yards* |
| 12" x 84"* |
12" x 20 yards+ |
| .4" x 10 yards* |
24" x 20 yards+ |
| .4" x 40 yards* |
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| 2" x 40 yards* |
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| 4" x 40 yards* |
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| 6" x 40 yards* |
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| 12" x 40 yards+ |
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| 18" x 40 yards+ |
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| 24" x 40 yards+ |
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| 30" x 40 yards+ |
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| 36" x 40 yards+ |
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| 48" x 40 yards+ |
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| Total thickness includes 2-mil adhesive. |
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| *These sizes can be ordered through your automotive aftermarket distributor. |
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| +These sizes must be purchased through Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film authorized converters. |
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| Q. |
When should 14-mil Scotchgard™ Paint Protect Film be used? |
| A. |
The 14-mil film should be used on flat or smooth surfaces with greater exposure to stone chips, bug damage or weathering, such as racing and off-road vehicles. |
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| Q. |
Is Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film available in 3-mil thickness? |
| A. |
This product is available in two thicknesses only: 8 mils (a 6-mil film base with 2-mil adhesive) and 14 mils (a 12-mil film base with 2-mil adhesive.) |
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| Purchasing |
| 3M sells the bulk rolls through authorized distributors. Please visit the Where to Buy section of this website to find a complete list of Authorized Converters Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film. |
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| Tools Required |
| Q. |
What tools are needed to apply Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film? |
| A. |
| Application Tools |
3M Part Number |
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| Orange Squeegee |
#71607 |
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| (Note: This squeegee is preferred for application of protective films to avoid scratching of paint or film.) |
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| Air Release Tool |
#71604 |
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| Scalpel, Akukut* or sharp razor blade |
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| Alcohol and water solution: 25% isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol with 75% water for application** |
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| Spray Bottle |
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| 3M™ General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner |
#08984 or 08987 |
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| 3M™ Prep Solvent 70 |
#08983 |
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| Isopropyl Alcohol** |
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| Clean Work Table |
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| 3M™ Application Tape |
#75906, #75951 or #76051 |
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| 3M™ Perfect-IT™ III Detailing Cloth |
#06016 |
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| *The Akukut is available from Tobias Associates, Inc., 50 Industrial Drive, Warminster, PA 18975 (215-322-1500). |
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| **Important Note: Some state Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) regulations may prohibit the use of this alcohol/water solution. For example, the California South Coast Air Quality Management District prohibits use of this solution without a permit, and other California AQMDs prohibit use of the solution without a permit or a regulatory exemption. You should check with your state environmental authorities to determine whether use of this solution is restricted or prohibited. |
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| Q. |
What type of cutting equipment do I need to cut Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film kits? |
| A. |
| Most vinyl film plotters will work. Here are a couple of resources: |
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Gerber original and Gerber II - Gerber II can handle wider parts
Phone: 1-800-321-2448
Web: www.gerbertechnology.com
Zund System - Supplier
Mikkelsen Graphics Engineering
801 Geneva Parkway
Lake Geneva, WI 53147 |
Phone: 262-348-0400
Contact: Steen Mikkelsen
Pro FC4100-75 or FC5100-75
Western Graphtec
11 Vanderbilt
Irvine, CA 92618
Phone: 1-800-854-8385
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| Q. |
Is Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film kit cutting software available? Where can it be purchased? |
| A. |
3M manufactures the film; however, several companies offer software downloads or CDs with patterns to cut model-specific film kits. Please see the Where to Buy section of this website for a listing of those companies selling software. |
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| Q. |
Which vehicles already have Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film kits available? |
| A. |
Some of our Authorized Converters offer kits. Visit the professional certified installer section under Where to Buy to locate the Authorized Converters who offer kits. Often times these companies have a wide selection of the current model year as well as a number of years back. |
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| Warranty |
| Q. |
What is the Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film warranty? |
| A. |
Contact your Certified Training Facility, your 3M sales representative or call 1-800-643-0955. |
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