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Material science

TPU vs TPH PPF
Same name, five years of difference

Most bargain PPF quotes are TPH — modified PVC blends, not true TPU. They look alike on day one but diverge sharply on elasticity, self-healing, yellowing and removal. Here is how to tell them apart in five minutes.

Part of the PPF (paint protection film) topic hub.

TPU vs TPH: seven material checks

DimensionTPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)TPH (modified PVC blend)
StructureElastomer — long chains that spring backPVC base softened with plasticisers
Self-healingYes — light scratches vanish at 40–60°CVery weak or absent
YellowingStays clear for 5–10 yearsYellows within 1–3 years, worst on hot front panels
StretchDeep-draws over complex curves, seamlessLimited stretch; complex areas need seams
Plasticiser migrationNone — paint stays unaffectedCan migrate and harden or stain the paint
RemovalPeels off in sheets, minimal residueCracks and shatters, heavy adhesive residue
PriceFrom HK$18,000 full carQuoted as low as HK$6,000–$9,000

Why the price gap is so wide

TPU is made from polyether or polyester polyurethane, several times more expensive as a raw material, and it carries an elastomeric stain-resistant topcoat plus UV stabilisers. TPH starts from PVC and uses plasticisers to soften it — far cheaper, visually similar on day one, and therefore marketed as 'entry-level PPF'.

The divergence is time. Plasticisers gas out under heat and UV, so TPH stiffens, yellows and shrinks, and can eventually take paint with it on removal. Hong Kong bonnets routinely hit 70°C in summer, which only accelerates the process.

Four checks you can run yourself

You can assess a quote before any film is applied:

  • Read the datasheet: real TPU states an aliphatic polyurethane base; TPH quotes hide behind 'polymer' or 'imported material'
  • Stretch a sample: TPU elongates 4–6x and recovers; TPH blanches and stays deformed
  • Check the warranty: genuine TPU carries a registered manufacturer warranty (ours is official GSWF); TPH usually gets a 1–2 year shop warranty
  • Smell and thickness: TPH has a strong vinyl odour and typically measures under 150μm total

Why we only install TPU

Self-healing and yellowing resistance are the entire reason PPF exists. Film that yellows in two years and refuses to peel in five leaves the paint in worse shape than bare. LETS GET WRAP uses GSWF TPU across the board with registered manufacturer warranty and clean, full-sheet removal.

The short version

  • TPU is an elastomer: self-healing, clear for 5–10 years. TPH is PVC-based and yellows and embrittles.
  • A quote at half the market rate is almost always TPH or unwarranted stock.
  • Datasheet, stretch test, registered warranty — three checks settle it.

Frequently asked

Keep reading

Education guide

PPF or ceramic coating?

PPF is a physical barrier; ceramic coating is a chemical layer. One stops rock chips and scratches, the other handles hydrophobics, UV and easy cleaning. Six dimensions, stacking order, and how Hong Kong owners should split the budget.

How it works

How PPF self-healing works

Self-healing film is not magic — it is shape memory in the elastomeric topcoat. Understanding the trigger temperature, the depth it can recover and where it fails keeps expectations realistic.

Want full pricing and coverage? Back to complete PPF guide。

Not sure if your quote is TPU or TPH?

Send us the datasheet or quotation on WhatsApp and we'll check the material, thickness and warranty terms line by line.

WhatsApp about film materialPPF pricing Call 9789 7813