May. 26, 2025
Automobiles & Motorcycles
Most of us are all too familiar with that sinking feeling (and the outburst of profanity) that comes right after a rock hits your windshield.
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Replacing your windshield is just flat out annoying. You have to spend time finding the right vendor, take hours out of your day to get it replaced, and at the end of it all, end up spending hundreds or thousands on a windshield that can just as easily break again.
If you're here looking for a way to protect your windshield, you can probably relate to at least one of the following:
1. Your passion is your car. When you love something you take care of it. You may already be protecting the body with paint protection film, and now you want to do the same for your windshield.
2. You’re tired of replacing your windshield (we’re looking at you, Jeep owners). Flat windshields like the ones on your Jeep are basically rock-chip magnets and regularly replacing your windshield is expensive and honestly just annoying.
3. Your vehicle has advanced driver assistance features. The sensors powering these systems sit directly behind the windshield and need to be recalibrated when the windshield is replaced (which is usually an expensive and time consuming process). In fact, AAA recently found that the average person can now expect to pay $ or more to replace their windshield.
Over the past 5 years, windshield protection films have become a popular and reliable way to protect your windshield.
A windshield protection film is a thin film designed to stop rock chips by absorbing the force of impact from rocks, gravel, or other debris. It is applied to the outside of the windshield, and when done right, should be completely invisible. It's like a giant screen protector for your windshield.
Glass windshields have an inherent problem – they break easily. Since glass is naturally brittle, it's pretty bad at absorbing impact from things like stones that come flying at it while you're driving.
A windshield protection film works because it’s made of a material that is softer than glass. This means that it does a much better job of absorbing the impact from incoming objects and distributing that force to stop the glass from breaking (within reason of course– a windshield protection film will NOT stop a giant boulder from smashing through your windshield...).
Windshield protection films are usually made up of three layers:
Unless you’re a trained windshield protection film installer, you won’t want to tackle the installation on your own. If you try to do it yourself you risk burning the film (it needs heat to mould perfectly to the windshield) or worse – scratching or cracking your windshield. Better to leave this one to the experts.
In , most reputable windshield protection films are sold exclusively through certified installers who have been trained to install it perfectly on your vehicle without damaging your windshield or the film.
Here's a list of installers we trust.
It’s important to think carefully about anything that you’re putting on your windshield since the wrong choice can affect you (and your family's) safety. Low quality films that have poor optical clarity will reduce your visibility (putting you at risk of an accident) and could impact how the sensors behind your windshield perform.
As windshield protection film becomes more popular with drivers, it can be tough to choose from the growing list of options out there. Not only are there multiple brands to choose from, but these brands also use different types of technology which can make it hard to compare.
We want to help you make the best decision to suit your lifestyle. Keep reading for a breakdown of the most common types of windshield protection film.
Most windshield protection films on the market are classified as either scratch-resistant or self-healing films.
Scratch resistant films use PET (polyethylene terephthalate) which acts as a soft, shock-absorbing layer. PET is extremely chemically stable and tends to last a long time. The PET is protected by a scratch-resistant topcoat (you might hear it called a 'hardcoat') that stops it from being scratched, prevents UV damage, and adds chemical resistance. A good hardcoat is designed to have what’s called high ‘hardness’ – which means that it won’t easily be scratched, and keeps the film (and your windshield) looking like new for a long time.
Scratch resistant films are extremely durable, making them the most popular choice for windshield protection. Since they first came on the market several years ago, PET-based films have come a long way to get to what they are today, and the technology is still continuing to improve.
A scratch resistant film is right for you if:
Self-healing films use TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) as the soft, shock-absorbing layer, which is used to make paint protection film (PPF). The TPU layer is covered by what's known as a ‘self-healing’ topcoat. Unlike the topcoat used in scratch-resistant films, the self-healing coating is actually very soft and scratches easily. But it's this softness that gives the coating its self-healing property – when there is a small scratch in the surface, the molecules in the coating will rearrange themselves to fill in the scratch, and the surface of the film looks like new.
It's only recently that self-healing technology has been borrowed from PPF to be used on the windshield and there hasn't been much real-world evidence yet to prove that it can survive the tough environment of the windshield.
Although self-healing technology has been around for PPF for a while, it is just still in the early stages of testing on the windshield. Depending on your driving habits and lifestyle, this may not be a risk you want to take.
A self-healing film is a good option for you if:
You should be able to rely on your windshield protection film, and we believe that the durability and longer lifespan of scratch resistant films make it the best choice for most vehicles.
This is why we chose to build ExoShield using scratch resistant film technology and spent over 4 years developing our industry-leading nanoceramic hardcoat that protects a layer of shock-absorbing PET. We also use a high-clarity, automotive-grade adhesive that has high strength but can be cleanly removed without leaving any residue on the windshield.
Once you choose the windshield protection film that’s right for you, it’s important to find an installer that you can trust to take care of your vehicle. Look for installers who are 'certified' or have done a training course specifically for windshield protection film. We also suggest asking to see examples of work they’ve done in the past – most installers will post photos of their work on instagram – for extra peace of mind.
We certify every single one of our ExoShield installers by putting them through our training program before including them on our reseller map - you can check it out to see if there’s an installer in your area.
By: David Smith
Want to protect your car’s windshield and avoid expensive repairs? In this article, we explain how windshield protective film can help.
Windshield protection film enhances durability by preventing damage from road hazards and environmental factors, extending the windshield’s lifespan.
The film improves visibility in adverse weather conditions by facilitating quick runoff of rain and snow while maintaining optical clarity.
Investing in windshield protection can lead to significant cost savings on repairs and replacements, while also enhancing vehicle safety and resale value.
Windshield protection film is a transparent, exterior-applied layer crafted to shield vehicle windshields from damage caused by road hazards such as debris and rocks. It ensures exceptional optical clarity with minimal distortion, thereby preserving the driver’s visibility.
This film is equipped with a robust, scratch-resistant coating that guards against abrasions from windshield wipers and various environmental elements.
It is especially advantageous for vehicles equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), given the high cost of replacing these windshields. Additionally, ClearPlex® windshield protection film extends the lifespan of the windshield, provides UV protection, and aids in maintaining the vehicle's structural integrity during collisions.
Featured content:You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Kingfilm.
Adverse weather driving can be tough, but windshield protection film improves visibility by facilitating quick runoff of rain and snow. This quicker drainage of rainwater improves visibility, reducing the chances of obscured views and making driving safer in wet conditions. Its nearly transparent nature minimizes light reduction and decreases glare from oncoming headlights.
The film facilitates improved water and snow runoff, which is particularly beneficial during heavy rain or snowstorms. Even with windshield wipers at full capacity, the film ensures a clear view. Improved visibility is a critical safety feature that can prevent accidents and make driving more comfortable and secure.
ClearPlex, in particular, is designed to reduce frost buildup on the windshield due to its smooth, blemish-free surface, making frost easier to remove. The film allows the use of ice scrapers, although it is recommended to use smooth, new scrapers to avoid damaging the film. ClearPlex’s surface repels ice, allowing it to be removed more easily when warming up the car.
In harsh conditions like those with salt or gravel on roads, the film's durability can be affected, similar to paint protection films. Longevity in harsh climates may vary, but proper care and adherence to maintenance instructions help maintain performance.
In addition to improving visibility in rain and snow, the film’s optical clarity ensures that there is no distortion in your view. This is crucial for night driving when glare from headlights can be particularly troublesome. With a clear view of the road, windshield protection film promotes safer driving conditions in any weather.
Everyday driving exposes your windshield to numerous potential abrasions, from the constant action of windshield wipers to debris like small rocks. The film's scratch-resistant coating effectively shields against everyday wear and tear. Elements like bird droppings, insects, and tree sap are less likely to damage your windshield, preserving its clarity and appearance.
By absorbing debris impacts, the film significantly reduces the risk of chips, cracks, and other damages. This not only prolongs the life of your windshield but also saves you money on repairs and replacements. Its durability ensures effectiveness over time, avoiding bubbling, peeling, or cracking during the warranty period.
Maintaining the film is straightforward, requiring only standard automotive cleaning products. This ease of maintenance, combined with its scratch-resistant properties, makes these types of window films an excellent investment for any vehicle owner. Protecting your windshield from everyday wear and tear, the film ensures a safe and pleasant driving experience.
Windshield protection films like ClearPlex block 99.9% of harmful UV rays, which helps prevent interior fading and damage. By reducing UV exposure, the film contributes to keeping the vehicle’s interior cooler, enhancing passenger comfort. The UV protection extends the lifespan of interior materials like upholstery, dashboards, and trim, reducing wear and tear over time.
Keeping the interior in pristine condition, the film helps maintain your vehicle’s value. A well-preserved interior significantly impacts resale value, reflecting the care given to the vehicle. The film provides a barrier against the sun’s rays, ensuring your vehicle looks good inside and out.
A compelling reason to invest in windshield protection film is the potential cost savings on repairs and replacements. The film reduces the frequency of rock chips and other impacts, making your windshield 6 times less likely to break, helping you avoid expensive windshield replacements. Fewer repairs and replacements translate to long-term savings.
Preventing damage, the film helps avoid costly windshield replacements. The film can also help keep insurance premiums low due to fewer claims. Consult your insurance agent about potential coverage for windshield film installation, as some policies may include it.
Investing in windshield protection can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on quality and installation. However, considering the potential savings on repairs and expensive windshield replacements, this investment is often well worth it. Protecting your windshield from common hazards, you avoid frequent repairs, making the film a cost-effective solution.
A key feature of these films are its seamless integration with your car’s windshield. Designed to be optically clear, the film ensures uncompromised visibility. Drivers can thus enjoy enhanced protection without sacrificing clarity.
Besides its optical clarity, the film maintains the windshield’s functionality and strength. Products like ClearPlex integrate flawlessly, maintaining the windshield’s appearance and adding durability. Seamless integration is essential for preserving aesthetic appeal while ensuring protection.
The film does not affect windshield wiper performance. Thus, your wipers function effectively, ensuring clear visibility in all weather conditions. Seamless integration provides a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for vehicle protection.
Many windshield protection films include a manufacturer’s warranty, offering peace of mind. ClearPlex and similar films typically offer warranties against bubbling, peeling, cracking, and yellowing. The warranty ensures the film remains effective and visually appealing over time.
Seamless application prevents these issues within the warranty period, guaranteeing no bubbling, peeling, or yellowing. Warranty coverage adds value to the investment, reducing potential issues and ensuring long-term durability.
Just a few short years ago these films would routinely be sold to owners of supercars, like Ferrari or Bugati, exotic cars like Porsche, BMW, Audi and others. This was because these owners new that maintaining their vehicles is a money saving proposition. They knew that a new windshield might cost thousands of dollars to replace.
These days that has all changed. With the advent of ADAS, everyday drivers like Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Subaru and Nissan (among many others) are equipped with these devices. They may be called things like adaptive cruise control, lane departure assistance, or forward collision warning (Consumer Reports attempts to clear up the lingo here), but they all still drive up the cost of windshield replacement to well over $1,000 on average.
But there's more. Aside from cars for the rest of us, RVs and off-road vehicle owners are also seeking out windshield protection options. This is because many in this class have large flat windshields that are prone to braking. What's more is that these windshields are difficult and expense to source and replace whereas windshield film installs easy and lasts.
Fleet trucks are also investing more and more in films like ClearPlex. When you factor in the number of miles they are driven and the relatively large amount of money lost by downtime to replace a windshield, you can see why fleet managers are choosing ClearPlex to save money and time..
During accidents, windshield protection film enhances safety by holding shattered glass together, preventing flying shards. This significantly reduces injury risk by keeping the glass intact, even in severe collisions. Designed to absorb impacts, the film enhances overall vehicle safety.
Preventing windshield shattering during collisions, the film adds a crucial layer of safety for vehicle occupants. This feature makes windshield protection film a valuable addition, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Professional installation is crucial for the effectiveness and longevity of windshield protection film. Professional installers significantly reduce measurement and application errors, ensuring a perfect fit. Experts use techniques that thermally fit the film to every curve, minimizing distortion and ensuring high transparency.
A strong adhesive ensures the film remains in place, while certified professionals guarantee it won’t peel, bubble, crack, or yellow. The installation process typically takes under an hour, making it a convenient option for enhancing windshield protection.
Windshield protection film offers numerous benefits, from improving visibility in adverse weather conditions to providing scratch resistance and protecting your vehicle’s interior. By reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements, this film can save you money and maintain your vehicle’s resale value. The seamless integration with your windshield and the added safety during accidents make it a valuable investment for any car owner.
Investing in professional installation services ensures that the film is applied correctly, providing long-term durability and effectiveness. With the added peace of mind from a manufacturer’s warranty, windshield protection film is a smart choice for enhancing the safety, comfort, and value of your vehicle.
Windshield protection film is a clear, durable film that is installed on the exterior of your windshield offering a physical barrier to protect against everyday road debris like rock chips ensuring the longevity and clarity of your vehicle's windshield. It effectively safeguards against various environmental damages.
Windshield protection film improves visibility in bad weather by allowing rain and snow to run off quickly, which reduces the risk of obscured views. This ensures a clearer line of sight during adverse conditions.
Yes, windshield protection film effectively prevents scratches and chips to your windshield glass by providing a scratch-resistant coating that safeguards against debris and everyday abrasions, ensuring the clarity and durability of your windshield.
Windshield protection film does not affect the performance of windshield wipers; they continue to function effectively regardless.
Windshield protection film enhances safety during accidents by holding shattered glass together, which reduces the risk of flying shards injuring drivers and passengers. This protective barrier contributes significantly to overall vehicle safety.
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