3M™ VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film
Frequently Asked Questions for the Installer
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We know you want to protect your vehicle, and we can help you do that with 3M™ VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film. If you can't find the answers to your questions in the FAQs below, then contact us.
Patterns and Software
Q: What are "Invisible Patterns"?
A: "Invisible Patterns" was the software which contained a library of patterns of various makes and models to support the installation of VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film. It has been integrated into the 3M™ Digital Designs software system.
Q: What are 3M™ Digital Designs?
A: 3M Digital Designs is the software which contains a library of patterns for various makes and models to support the installation of both Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film and VentureShield™ Paint Protection Films.
Q: How much does 3M™ "Digital Designs software cost?
A: The suggested retail price for the software is $400.
Q: How can I buy 3M™ Digital Designs and get access to the pattern library?
A: 3M Digital Designs can be purchased from an authorized 3M paint protection film distributor. Contact your local 3M Sales Representative for the distributor in your area.
Q: Can existing 3M™ Digital Designs customers get access to VentureShield™ Invisible Patterns?
A: Yes. The Invisible Patterns for VentureShield Paint Protection Film are now included in 3M Digital Designs library.
Q: Can 3M™ Digital Designs' patterns be used with VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film?
A: 3Yes, however 3M Digital Designs' patterns were designed for use on Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film and it is best to use the pattern that is specific to the film you are using.
Q: Can VentureShield™ Invisible Patterns be used with Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film?
A: Because VentureShield and Scotchgard films have different application characteristics (ex. stretch), it is best to use the pattern that is specific to the film you are using.
Q: How do new patterns get added to the 3M™ Digital Designs software package?
A: The software pulls from a website database. New patterns are uploaded as they become available.
Required Tools
Application
Q: Can I apply VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film dry?
A: No, it must applied with the recommended solutions.
Q: How should surfaces be prepared before application of the VentureShield™ 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 3M™ Glass Cleaner (3M Part No. 08888). On repainted vehicles the 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 No. 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, vinyl or fabric when properly used.
Q: Is there a certain temperature at which VentureShield™ Film must be applied?
A: The film should be applied when air and application surface temperatures are between 55 degrees - 90 degrees F (13 - 32 degrees 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.
Q: How do I remove bubbles underneath the film?
A: If the bubble is close to the edge, spray soap solution onto the film and squeegee with a fast, firm stroke. If the film is not fully tacked yet (early in the application), the film can be lifted just past the bubble and reapplied using standard application techniques. If the film has tacked, then use a diabetic syringe to fix the bubble.
Q: How do I fix a bubble using a diabetic syringe?
A: Prepare the diabetic syringe by bending the needle to a 45 degree angle to allow for insertion of the needle at the base of the bubble. If the bubble is filled with solution, insert the needle and extract the solution using the syringe. If the bubble is filled with air, fill the syringe with alcohol solution; insert the needle into the bubble; inject the alcohol solution into the bubble to expand the diameter of the bubble; then extract the alcohol and the air using the syringe.
Q: How can I fix or prevent the edges on the film from lifting?
A: To help the wrapped edges of the film stay securely in place after application, wrap a 3M™ Perfect-It Detail Cloth (3M Part No. 06020) around the squeegee and use firm strokes. If the edge is wet, let the application dry an hour before tacking or use a heat gun to speed up the process.
Q: Can VentureShield™ Film be applied on a vehicle that has had the paint touched up?
A: 3M recommends that any repainted surfaces on your vehicle be professionally 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 over it, the film will protect that area until it is removed. If the paint protection film is removed, it is possible that the paint around the non-professional touch-up paint could peel off.
Q: Why doesn't the pre-cut kit fit correctly?
A: The kit may not fit correctly because it may have stretched during installation or have been improperly aligned on the vehicle. Due to the nature of the kit cutting process, there could also be some variation in the size of kits.
Q: What is silvering and how do I get rid of it?
A: Silvering is a whitish/silver color that appears under the film and is most noticeable on darker colored cars. If insufficient squeegee pressure is used during an application, small amounts of air and water mix and form micro bubbles underneath the film. The remedy is to add a little more soap to the water/soap solution to help the squeegee slide more easily while using a firmer application stroke. The extra soap also gives the installer more time before the adhesive tacks to the surface.
Q: What are lift lines and how do I get rid of them?
A: Lift lines look similar to silvering and are caused by lifting the film and putting it back down after the adhesive has already set up and tacked. To fix a lift line, lift the film a few inches past the lift line, spray with the alcohol solution and then re-squeegee. To prevent lift lines, add a little more soap to the water/soap solution. This gives the installer more time before the adhesive tacks to the surface.
Q: If the film will not stick during application, what should I do?
A: There are a number of reasons why film may not stick. Always use proper cleaning and preparation techniques that are standard in the industry. For example,do not use contaminated cleaning towels. Do not get overspray from other processes on the surface to be cleaned. Incorrectly mixed solution can cause low or no tack.
Q: There is a partial palm/finger print under the film; how can this be removed?
A: Fingerprints can be avoided during installation by keeping your fingers wet. After the installation is complete, the material must be replaced to correct the issue.
Q: Can I print on VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film?
A: VentureShield film was not designed to be printed. Please refer to 3M Commercial Graphics Division for printable products.
Q: Can VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film be installed on motorcycles?
A: Yes, VentureShield film can be installed on motorcycles.
Q: Will VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film work on windshields?
A: 3M does not recommend or endorse VentureShield film for this use.
Q: Can VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film be installed on headlights?
A: In the United States, Department of Transportation's safety standards do not allow for any film to be placed on headlamps. Other countries may or may not regulate. Please contact your local 3M Representative to help answer this question in your country.
Maintenance
Q: What is the best way to clean VentureShield Film?
A: Soap and water is recommended. We do not recommend using *isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. *Note: When using solvents, extinguish all ignition sources, including pilot lights and follow the manufacturer's precautions and directions for use.
Q: Are there some types of waxes that I should avoid using on VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film?
A: Do not use pigmented or abrasive waxes and polishes or similar products on the film. 3M is currently testing 3M™ and Meguiars™ Car Care Products. Results will be posted on the website when available.
Q: What type of wax does 3M recommend?
A: 3M™ Performance Finish.
Q: Can I apply wax over the film?
A: Yes. Every time you wax your paint, wax your film.
Going Into Business
Q: How do I get training to learn to install VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film?
A: Training facilities are listed on www.3M.com/paintprotectionfilm. Contact one of them to schedule training.
Q: Is there a step-by-step training video for VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film?
A: A Scotchgard™ training video is available. Please contact 1-800-328-1684 to order a copy of the video.
Q: Are there any marketing tools available for VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film Products?
A: Please contact your local distributor.
Q: How can I get a sample of VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film?
A: Please contact one of the distributors listed on the website.
Q: How much does the VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film cost?
A: Please contact one of the distributors listed on the website.
Q: Can I buy VentureShield™ Paint Proection Film directly from the 3M website or do I have to contact a distributor?
A: Visit the 3M website to locate a distributor. You must contact your distributor to buy film.
Q: How can I become a distributor of VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film in the United States?
A: Contact your local 3M Sales Representative.
Q: How can I become a distributor of VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film outside of the United States?
A: Contact the 3M subsidiary in your country.
Purchasing
Q: How much does a roll of VentureShield™Paint Protection Film cost?
A: Contact your local distributor for pricing.
Q: Why isn't pricing for VentureShield™ Paint Protection Film on your website?
A: 3M sells through distribution. Contact your local distributor for pricing.
