by The paintwork of a car is daily subjected to various impacts. Gravel and sand thrown up by the wheels of the vehicle in front, inevitable scratches from branches, precipitation, the effects of salt and chemical reagents — all of this negatively affects the car, causing scratches and chips on the bodywork. An anti-gravel film can help solve the problem once and for all. It protects the most vulnerable elements of the car from external impacts. By absorbing the impact, the composite distributes its force evenly across the entire surface.
However, due to the popularization of this film material, many in Ukraine misunderstand what an anti-gravel film is and what properties it possesses. To clarify, help you not get confused and choose a truly high-quality film coating at an optimal price, the online store Vissbon will describe in detail the differences in the anti-gravel films presented for sale.
What types of anti-gravel film are there?
- polyurethane;
- vinyl;
- hybrid.
Each of them is designed to protect the car from minor chips and scratches that may occur from small gravel hitting while driving, branches of roadside bushes, due to improper parking, and glancing collisions with another vehicle (only minor damage is considered). Visually, they are indistinguishable — all three are completely transparent. The difference lies in the material used.
The composition determines how long the anti-gravel film will last and affects its cost.
Anti-gravel Vinyl Film
The material used is polyvinyl chloride. The thickness of such films is within 150-170 microns, and the coefficient of local stretching is up to 200%. For applying the anti-gravel vinyl film, a perfectly smooth surface is important. During the adhesion process, the film must undergo heat treatment (as shown in the photo) — otherwise, the material will not mold.
The application is done using a wet method. 
Important! Vinyl films come in colorful, glossy, matte, and with various effects. We do not discuss them in this article. If you are interested in colored auto vinyl — you can review the range, prices, and their characteristics on the Vissbon online store website.
Anti-gravel Polyurethane Film
Polyurethane is characterized by increased strength and elasticity.
The thickness of the films is usually 140-160 microns, and the stretching coefficient is 200-250%. Thanks to this, the polyurethane protective film easily absorbs impacts from flying road gravel, is unaffected by abrasive agents, and preserves the paintwork even in minor accidents. 
The film is easy to roll onto the car body, it stretches well, and this is perhaps its main advantage. The application is done using a wet method. In case of small scratches on the film surface, they can be removed by heating them with a hairdryer.
In reviews on thematic forums, car owners write that minor film defects also disappear with prolonged sun exposure. The main disadvantage of this film is its price, which is significantly higher than vinyl. 
Anti-gravel Hybrid Film
This is also a vinyl film with polymers and stabilizers added to its composition. The thickness of such material is 140-190 microns. Hybrid film combines the positive properties of polyurethane and vinyl films:
- transparency;
- strength;
- elasticity.
The hybrid film stretches well, allowing it to coat both even and curved surfaces of the car.
It is applied, like the polyurethane base, using a wet method. This is, so to speak, a compromise option that recently appeared on the market. It is free from the low elasticity disadvantage of vinyl and does not yellow like polyurethane. It is optimal in price and has proven itself well. 
Which protective film is better?
Let’s summarize in a comparative table
Protective anti-gravel film is the only way to preserve the pristine appearance of a new car or to refresh the body of an old car after long-term use. It accurately conveys the color of the paintwork and replicates its gloss regardless of the material it consists of.
If you have any questions, contact the managers through the “order a call” button.
