FAQs about Luminous
Auto Care products

Paint Protection Film
Check out the FAQs about our paint protection film.
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What is Luminous paint protection film?
Luminous paint protection film (PPF) – TPU is an optically clear, high-quality film designed to protect your vehicle’s vulnerable areas from everyday hazards such as stone chips, sand damage, parking lot dings, and washing abrasions.
What are the key features of Luminous paint protection film (PPF)?
- Heat-Activated Self-Healing: The film, made of elastomeric polyurethane, repairs minor scratches, and swirls when exposed to heat or warm water.
- Anti-aging Formulation: Resists yellowing from UV exposure, preserving clarity over time.
- Prevents Wear and Tear: Protects against sand, stone chips, road debris, and parking scuffs.
- Discoloration and Stain Resistance: Resists damage from harsh chemicals and contaminants, maintaining a glossy finish.
- Optically Clear: Virtually undetectable, enhances gloss without altering the original paint finish.
What paint protection films does Luminous have?
Luminous offers the following Paint Protection Films:
Is there a technical data sheet for Luminous paint protection film (PPF)?
Yes, you can access the Technical Data Sheets for all of them using the links below:
Does Luminous paint protection film (PPF) have self-healing properties?
Yes, Luminous paint protection film (PPF) features heat-activated self-healing technology. Minor scratches and swirls disappear when exposed to heat or warm water, keeping the surface flawless.
Is Luminous paint protection film (PPF) resistant to discoloration?
Yes, Luminous paint protection film (PPF) is formulated with an anti-aging composition that resists yellowing from UV exposure, ensuring the film stays clear over time.
How does Luminous paint protection film (PPF) protect the vehicle?
It provides robust protection against sand, stone chips, road debris, and car park scuffs, preventing wear and tear while maintaining your vehicle’s appearance.
Can Luminous paint protection film (PPF) withstand harsh chemicals?
Yes, the film is stain- and discoloration-resistant, protecting against harsh chemicals and contaminants without damaging the vehicle’s paint.
Will Luminous paint protection film (PPF) alter the car’s appearance?
No, the film is optically clear and virtually undetectable once applied. It enhances the gloss of your vehicle’s paintwork while preserving the original finish.
What kind of maintenance does Luminous paint protection film (PPF) require?
Luminous paint protection film (PPF) requires minimal maintenance. Clean it gently with pH-neutral products and avoid abrasive tools to keep the surface looking flawless.
Is Luminous paint protection film (PPF) suitable for all driving conditions?
Yes, Luminous paint protection film (PPF) is engineered to withstand various driving conditions, including sand, road debris impacts, and daily parking hazards, ensuring consistent protection.
What type of soap should I use to wash my car before applying PPF?
It is essential to use a high-quality car-specific soap. These soaps are formulated to remove dirt and grime without damaging your car’s paint. Avoid household soaps or detergents as they can be too harsh or leave behind residues that may interfere with PPF adhesion.
What kind of towels are recommended for drying the car and why?
Microfiber towels are strongly recommended for drying the car after washing. They are soft and absorbent and minimize the risk of scratching or swirling your paint compared to other materials. Clean, dry microfiber towels ensure that no water spots or lint remain, providing a pristine surface for the subsequent application steps.
Why is it important to address paint imperfections before installing PPF rather than afterwards?
Addressing paint imperfections before applying PPF is essential because once the PPF is installed, these imperfections can become amplified. They create an uneven surface beneath the film that can result in trapped air or water, visible defects, and a less appealing finish. Attempting to correct paint issues after PPF application is not possible without removing the film, which is costly and time-consuming. A smooth, flawless paint surface before application ensures the best appearance and longevity of the PPF.
What material is used for PPF?
It is made of a thin layer of urethane, which is a transparent, flexible, and durable material. PPF is designed to deflect and absorb impact, which can help prevent scratches, chips, and other forms of damage to the paint.
What alcohol is used for PPF?
It is recommended that the application surface be cleaned with Isopropyl Alcohol. Many other commercially available cleaning/degreasing products may be suitable for cleaning and degreasing but need to be tested before use. However, the final cleaning of the vehicle should always be done with Isopropyl Alcohol.
Does PPF need polishing?
Occasionally, paint protection films need polishing, though this is subject to the environment the vehicle is regularly parked in or drives through. As we mentioned, overuse of cleaning/polish will negatively influence the paint protection film, so try not to have it polished regularly.
What is the lifespan of PPF?
Paint Protection Film is designed to be a sacrificial layer between the film and the bare clear coat. Before investing in PPF, you need to understand the lifespan of the product. Longevity of PPF is realistically around 5 to 10 years depending on driving conditions, wear and tear, and the method of care.
What solution should be used for paint protection film?
The ideal application technique for painting protection film is to use two solutions. This two-step method consists of a slip solution and a tack solution. For the slide problem, use a solution of soap and water, and for the tack solution, use isopropyl alcohol and water.
How many types of PPF are there?
The three most widely used PPF types on the market are TPU, TPH, and PVC.
What is the purpose of PPF?
The film is designed to withstand hits from pebbles, broken glass, and anything that could scratch or chip the paint on your car. Additionally resistant to chemicals and UV light, high-quality PPF shouldn’t discolor or deteriorate with time.
Can I wash the car after PPF??
Avoid washing your car, exposing it to excessive water, or extreme heat for at least 14 days after applying PPF. For the best results, minimize vehicle use and keep it untouched as much as possible during this period.
What are TPH and TPU in PPF?
The materials that make it up are thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and thermoplastic hybrid (TPH). Such materials are strong enough but flexible enough to fit in with the curves and shapes of the car. The main layer is the thickest and has a thickness between 140 and 160 microns.
Why is it crucial to thoroughly wash and dry the car before applying paint protection film (PPF)?
Thorough washing is essential to remove dirt, road grime, and other contaminants that could interfere with the PPF’s adhesion. Using a car-specific soap and a microfiber cloth helps avoid scratching the paint during this process. Drying the car completely, especially with microfiber towels, prevents water spots from forming and ensures no water is trapped in crevices or edges where the PPF might overlap. Any trapped water or debris can cause issues with the PPF adhesion and appearance.
What does a clay bar treatment do, and why is it necessary?
A clay bar treatment removes microscopic contaminants that washing alone can’t eliminate, such as embedded dirt or industrial fallout. These tiny particles can prevent the PPF from bonding properly to the paint surface, leading to imperfections. Using a clay lubricant or water allows the clay bar to glide smoothly without scratching the car’s finish. This step ensures a perfectly clean surface.
Can I skip any of these steps and still get a good result with PPF?
While it might be tempting to skip steps to save time, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful and long-lasting PPF application. Skipping any step could lead to issues with adhesion, the appearance of imperfections (like bubbles), and premature failure of the film. It’s highly recommended to follow each step carefully to achieve the best results.
Why use an isopropyl alcohol solution on the paint before applying PPF?
An isopropyl alcohol solution, typically mixed with water, is used to remove any remaining waxes, oils, or grease from the paint’s surface. These substances can prevent the PPF’s adhesive from properly bonding to the paint, which can result in lifting, bubbling or premature failure of the film. This step provides a clean, optimal surface for the PPF.
What is "paint correction," and why is it important before applying PPF?
Paint correction refers to the process of addressing any imperfections in the paint, such as swirl marks, scratches, or oxidation, before applying PPF. These flaws can cause bubbles or water pockets to form beneath the PPF, creating a less-than-perfect appearance and potentially reducing the film’s longevity. Paint correction, often done with a dual-action (DA) polisher and polish, ensures a smooth, even surface for optimal PPF application.
Automotive Window Film
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What are the primary benefits of using Luminous ceramic window film?
Luminous Ceramic Window Film offers a range of benefits, including superior solar heat rejection which helps keep interiors cooler, protection against harmful UV rays that can damage skin and cause fading of interiors, reduced glare from the sun and headlights, enhanced privacy by limiting outside visibility while maintaining the view from inside, increased safety by strengthening glass and holding shards in case of breakage, customizable aesthetics with various shade options, improved energy efficiency by lowering cooling costs, scratch resistance due to a special coating, and ease of maintenance.
How does ceramic window film contribute to energy efficiency?
Ceramic window film significantly reduces solar heat gain. By blocking a substantial amount of solar energy from entering through the windows, it lessens the need for air conditioning, ultimately contributing to lower energy consumption and reduced cooling expenses. This helps regulate interior temperature, making it more comfortable and cost-effective.
Is there a technical data sheet for Luminous ceramic window film?
Yes, a technical data sheet (TDS) is available for Luminous ceramic window film. You can access it here Ceramic Window Film TDS.
Does Luminous window film provide safety and security benefits?
Yes, ceramic window film adds strength to glass, making it more resistant to shattering. In the event of breakage, the film helps hold the glass fragments together, minimizing the risk of injury. This additional layer of strength enhances both safety and security for the occupants.
How is Luminous ceramic window film constructed?
The film’s structure consists of a clear polyester layer, a laminate adhesive, another clear polyester layer, a mounting adhesive, and a hard coat. This multi-layered construction ensures durability, functionality, and performance, making the film scratch-resistant and suitable for long-term use.
How long is the warranty for Luminous ceramic window film and what does it cover?
Luminous ceramic window film comes with a warranty of up to 10 years from the original purchase date. The warranty covers defects in the film’s reactive and adhesive properties, as well as its appearance. It ensures proper installation by a certified installer. This includes the free replacement of any defective parts.
What are the primary benefits of Luminous carbon window film?
Luminous Carbon Window Film offers a range of benefits, including superior heat rejection to keep interiors cooler, significant UV ray protection to prevent fading and protect skin, reduced glare for improved visibility, enhanced privacy by limiting outside visibility, and added safety by helping hold shattered glass together. The film is also designed with a non-reflective aesthetic, energy efficiency through reduced cooling costs, and long-lasting color stability due to its fade-resistant carbon-infused materials.
How does the carbon-infused material in Luminous carbon window film contribute to its performance?
The carbon-infused materials in the film provide several key advantages. They are responsible for the film’s ability to reject solar heat effectively, reduce glare, and maintain color stability over time by resisting fading. This material also gives the film its non-reflective appearance, which many find aesthetically pleasing. The carbon infusion is integral to the long-lasting performance and durability of the film.
What types of protection does Luminous Carbon Window Film provide?
The film offers multiple types of protection. It protects against UV rays, which helps prevent fading of interiors and protects skin from prolonged sun exposure. It also provides a degree of safety, as it strengthens glass and helps hold shattered pieces together in the event of breakage. The film enhances privacy by making it more difficult to see inside. Additionally, the film provides protection from the heat caused by solar energy.
What is the product structure of Luminous Carbon Window Film?
By effectively reducing heat buildup inside a vehicle or building, Luminous window film decreases the reliance on air conditioning. This reduction in cooling demand directly translates to lower energy consumption and cost savings, making the film an energy-efficient solution for climate control.
Is there a technical data sheet for Luminous carbon window film?
Yes, a technical data sheet (TDS) is available for Luminous carbon window film. You can access it here Carbon Window Film TDS.
What kind of warranty is offered for Luminous Carbon Window Film and what are its limitations?
Luminous Carbon Window Film comes with a warranty up to 3 years from the original purchase date, covering proper installation by a certified installer. The warranty ensures the film maintains its adhesive and reactive properties, as well as its appearance. However, the warranty does not cover damages resulting from improper installation, incorrect film application, poor cleaning practices, or misuse. It also excludes coverage for alterations to the film, failures caused by structural defects in the glass, or damages not directly attributable to Luminous’ actions.
What do the terms VLT, IRR, UV, and TSER stand for, and how are they measured?
- VLT (Visible Light Transmitted): This refers to the percentage of visible light that passes directly through the filmed glass. A higher VLT value indicates a lighter film and greater light transmission.
- IRR (Infrared Rejection): This represents the percentage of solar infrared energy rejected by the film, specifically within the 900-1,000 nm wavelength range. Infrared rays are primarily responsible for the heat you feel from the sun.
- UV (Ultraviolet Rejection): This signifies the percentage of ultraviolet (UV) light that is blocked by the film. UV light is known to cause fading and deterioration of fabrics and leather.
- TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejection): This is the percentage of total solar energy rejected by the film. The higher the TSER value, the less solar heat is transmitted through the glass.
How do the different VLT (Visible Light Transmitted) options affect the performance and look of the film?
Luminous window film offers various VLT options. A higher VLT percentage indicates a lighter film that allows more visible light to pass through, resulting in less tint. Conversely, lower VLT percentages mean a darker film that allows less light, resulting in a greater tint and improved privacy and heat rejection. For example, a 70% VLT film will have minimal tint and be very light, while a 5% VLT film will be very dark and offer significantly more privacy and heat reduction. The choice of VLT depends on the desired balance between light transmission, privacy, and solar protection.
How does Luminous window film contribute to energy efficiency?
By effectively reducing heat buildup inside a vehicle or building, Luminous window film decreases the reliance on air conditioning. This reduction in cooling demand directly translates to lower energy consumption and cost savings, making the film an energy-efficient solution for climate control.
What are some examples of situations where the Luminous warranty might not apply?
The warranty does not cover issues arising from improper or illegal film installation, incorrect application, inappropriate care or cleaning, or misuse. It also does not cover alterations to the original manufactured product, defects in the glass itself, or damages not directly attributed to Luminous’ actions, such as structural issues with the window or other outside events.
How do you clean Luminous window film?
A mixture of 1/2 ounce of liquid dish soap and 1 quart of fresh water works well for cleaning window film. Gently wash the surface using a soft microfiber cloth or synthetic sponge. To prevent streaks, dry the film with a clean, lint-free cloth or a rubber squeegee.
Does car window film go on the inside or outside?
Window tint is always installed on the inside of vehicle windows. However, during installation, preparatory steps like shrinking the film on the rear windshield may be performed on the outside.
What is the most expensive car tint?
Ceramic window tint is the most expensive due to its strong heat-rejection properties. It reflects sunlight effectively while also providing insulation.
Which tint is best for driving?
A 50% tint is a popular choice as it balances visibility and heat reduction. For more privacy, tints between 20% and 35% are effective, ensuring interior privacy while driving.
Can you see at night with a 10% tint?
Tints darker than 10% can be very difficult or impossible to see through at night. However, depending on other conditions, you may still see through tints as dark as 15% in certain situations.
Does Luminous window film provide safety and security benefits?
Yes, Luminous window film adds strength to glass, making it more resistant to shattering. In the event of breakage, the film helps hold the glass fragments together, minimizing the risk of injury. This additional layer of strength enhances both safety and security for the occupants.
What are the key steps involved in correctly installing ceramic window film?
Correct installation requires a clean workspace and thoroughly washed windows, including the removal of stubborn contaminants using a razor blade. The film is applied to a wet window and the backing is peeled carefully, and the film is aligned with no gaps or overlaps. Excess solution is squeegeed out from the center outward. Excess film is trimmed along the edges. Installers must check for bubbles, may use heat guns for curved surfaces, and allow time to cure for 2-3 days, avoiding rolling down windows.
Does window film provide privacy at night?
Most window films do not offer full privacy at night. For example, one-way or mirrored privacy films work best during the day due to the brighter outdoor light, creating a reflective effect that enhances privacy.
Ceramic Coating
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What is Hypershield Graphene Coating and what is it designed to protect?
Hypershield Graphene Coating is an advanced protective layer specifically engineered to safeguard painted surfaces, metal, and glass. It offers robust defense against damage from environmental contaminants, chemicals, scratches, and pollutants, ensuring long-lasting protection for the coated surfaces.
Is Hypershield Graphene Coating scratch-resistant?
Yes, Luminous Hypershield Graphene Coating is scratch-resistant. It creates a robust 1000 nm protective layer, providing guaranteed long-lasting scratch protection.
How does Hypershield Graphene Coating provide such strong protection?
The coating forms a thick, 1000 nanometer layer that acts as a shield. This layer provides a physical barrier against daily wear, environmental pollutants, and corrosive chemicals, preventing damage to the underlying surfaces.
What kind of guarantee does Hypershield Graphene Coating offer?
Hypershield Graphene Coating comes with a 100% lifetime guarantee for resistance to chemicals, scratches, and pollutants. This guarantee ensures that the coating will effectively protect surfaces from these forms of damage for the duration of its application.
What’s the best way to wash a ceramic-coated car?
Use the two-bucket method: one bucket for soapy water and another for rinsing, to prevent dirt from scratching the surface. Opt for a pH-neutral car shampoo, as it helps maintain the hydrophobic and protective qualities of the coating.
How does the coating’s hydrophobic property function?
The Hypershield Graphene Coating incorporates hydrophobic properties, which create a water-repellent layer. This layer makes water bead and roll off the surface, preventing it from adhering. This also makes it difficult for dirt and grime to stick, which contributes to easier cleaning and maintenance.
Is Hypershield Graphene Coating suitable for a variety of surfaces?
Yes, the Hypershield Graphene Coating is designed to be versatile and can be applied to various materials including painted surfaces, metal, and glass. This makes it a broadly applicable protective solution.
What makes the coating easier to maintain after application?
The hydrophobic properties of the coating are crucial for easy maintenance. Because water, dirt, and grime are repelled, they are less likely to adhere to the treated surface, greatly reducing the effort required for cleaning. The coated surfaces stay cleaner for longer and are simpler to wash when needed.
How does the application of Hypershield Graphene Coating impact the longevity and look of surfaces?
The application of Hypershield Graphene Coating significantly extends the lifespan and preserves the aesthetic quality of surfaces. By providing a strong protective layer, the coating prevents deterioration from everyday wear and environmental exposure while simultaneously enhancing the surface’s glossiness and creating a smooth finish.
Besides protection, does Hypershield Graphene Coating offer any aesthetic benefits?
Yes, in addition to superior protection, the coating enhances the aesthetic appeal of coated surfaces. It creates a super smooth, exceptionally glossy finish, which noticeably improves the appearance of vehicles or other coated items.
Is Luminous Hypershield Graphene Coating better than regular ceramic coating?
Yes, Hypershield Graphene Coating is stronger and more durable than traditional ceramic coatings, making it a preferred choice among automotive enthusiasts.
What can damage a ceramic coating?
Products with extremely high or low pH levels can harm ceramic coatings by either degrading the coating or neutralizing its hydrophobic properties. To maintain its integrity, always use pH-neutral products for cleaning and maintenance.
Can ceramic coatings remove scratches?
No, ceramic coatings cannot eliminate deep scratches; they are designed to protect the surface, not to correct damage.
What should you avoid doing after a ceramic coating application?
Avoid automatic car washes with brushes or mitts, washing the car in direct sunlight, or using soaps containing wax, petroleum distillates, or with a pH outside the 5.0–9.0 range.
What steps are crucial to prepare a vehicle before applying a ceramic or graphene coating?
Prior to applying any protective coating, a meticulous preparation process is essential. This involves a thorough wash using a pH-neutral shampoo to remove loose dirt and grime. Following the wash, a clay bar is used to eliminate embedded contaminants like tar, sap, and industrial fallout from the paint’s surface. Next, any imperfections such as swirl marks, scratches, or oxidation should be corrected through polishing or compounding. Finally, the surface needs to be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or a dedicated panel prep solution to remove residues, ensuring a completely clean and bare surface ready for coating.
How is a ceramic or graphene coating typically applied to a vehicle?
Coatings should be applied in sections, one panel at a time to maintain consistency. A small amount of the coating is applied to a microfiber or foam applicator pad, and spread evenly across the surface using overlapping, straight-line motions. After a short flash period (when the coating becomes rainbow-like or tacky), the excess is buffed off immediately with a clean microfiber towel.
Cleaning Chemicals
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What is Waterless Wash & Wax?
Waterless Wash & Wax is a premium formula that cleans and adds wax protection in one simple step, eliminating the need for water, hoses, or rinsing. It’s perfect for car care centers, dealerships, rentals, and body shops, offering convenient, high-quality results with minimal effort.
What surfaces is Waterless Wash & Wax safe to use on?
Waterless Wash & Wax is safe to use on all glossy paints, clear coat finishes, glass, chrome, polished metals, and plastic trim.
Can Waterless Wash & Wax be used without water?
Yes, Waterless Wash & Wax is a waterless cleaning solution that lifts dirt from the surface, allowing for easy wiping without the need for water.
What is Luminous All Surface Cleaner?
All Surface Cleaner is a highly concentrated cleaning solution designed to tackle tough stains, dirt, and grease on both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. It offers exceptional cleaning power on a wide range of surfaces, making it versatile and effective for all your cleaning needs.
Can All Surface Cleaner be used on both interior and exterior surfaces?
Yes, All Surface Cleaner is designed for use on both interior and exterior surfaces of your vehicle, including vinyl, fabric, plastic, rubber, and painted surfaces.
What types of stains can All Surface Cleaner remove?
All Surface Cleaner is effective for removing coffee, ink, food and drink spills, dirt, road salt, grease, and more.
How should All Surface Cleaner be diluted?
The cleaner should be diluted up to 1:10 with water, depending on the cleaning task. For tougher stains, a more concentrated solution may be used.
What is Luminous 911 Dressing?
Luminous 911 Dressing is a water-based formula designed to enhance and protect various surfaces such as leather, vinyl, plastic, rubber, and tiles. It leaves a dry-to-the-touch finish without greasy residue and creates an invisible shield that repels water, dirt, and dust, ensuring surfaces stay cleaner for longer.
Can 911 Dressing be used on both interior and exterior surfaces?
Yes, 911 Dressing is versatile and can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces, including leather, vinyl, plastic, rubber, and tiles.
How should 911 Dressing be diluted?
911 Dressing should be diluted with water at a ratio of 1:10 (one part dressing to ten parts water) depending on your cleaning needs.
What is Luminous Powerful Degreaser?
Powerful Degreaser is a highly effective cleaning solution designed to tackle grease and grime from engines and various exterior vehicle surfaces. It quickly emulsifies oil-based soiling, making it ideal for cleaning engine compartments, rocker panels, door jambs, wheel wells, undercarriages, and suspension components.
Can Powerful Degreaser be used on all vehicle surfaces?
Yes, Powerful Degreaser is suitable for use on engine compartments, rocker panels, door jambs, wheel wells, undercarriages, and suspension components. It effectively removes grease and grime from a wide range of exterior surfaces.
How should Powerful Degreaser be diluted?
Powerful Degreaser can be diluted up to 1:10 with water, depending on the level of cleaning required. For tougher grease and grime, a stronger concentration may be necessary.
What is Luminous Hyper Stain Remover?
Hyper Stain Remover is a powerful, organic cleaner formulated with natural citrus D-limonene oil. It effectively removes tough stains, grease, tar, tree sap, and other contaminants from both interior and exterior surfaces without using harsh chemicals.
Can Hyper Stain Remover be used on both interior and exterior surfaces?
Yes, Hyper Stain Remover is versatile and can be used on a variety of interior surfaces like carpets, fabrics, dashboards, and leather, as well as exterior surfaces.
How should Hyper Stain Remover be diluted?
Hyper Stain Remover can be diluted up to 1:10 with water, depending on the cleaning needs. For tougher stains, a higher concentration may be needed.
What is Hyper Shampoo & Wax?
Hyper Shampoo & Wax is a concentrated, pH-balanced soap designed to maintain the shine and protection of recently waxed vehicles. It cleans effectively while enhancing and preserving the glossy finish, leaving behind a spot-free shine.
Is Hyper Shampoo & Wax safe for frequent use?
Yes, Hyper Shampoo & Wax is pH-balanced, making it gentle on both your hands and vehicle surfaces, making it ideal for regular use without causing damage.
How concentrated is Hyper Shampoo & Wax?
Hyper Shampoo & Wax is highly concentrated and can be diluted up to 1:300, ensuring that a little goes a long way for efficient and economical use.
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