Protective Film v Protectapeel
On the face of it “protective film” looks to be a cost effective way of protecting substrates during the construction process. But this is not always the case. Any construction site manager will tell you that it is a difficult job protecting various different substrates during the construction process. The continuous “through-traffic” of different trades, the application of building materials, some of which are sprayed, all contributes to substrate damage. Worse still the damage is often increased further as the cleaners try to remove the damage, dirt and grime with abrasive cleaning materials prior to hand-over. If the substrates are too badly damaged repair or even replacement is a costly business that delays completion adds cost and affects the contractor’s reputations and profit margins.
There is little doubt that site managers need to apply some form of protection to prevent damage and save cost. The traditional method of protection is protective film. It comes on a roll, in different sizes, and offers an initial low cost solution. Another credible alternative is Protectapeel a liquid coating that is applied by spray or roller. The initial cost is higher however, the product benefits and speed of application offers the construction site manager value for money in the long term.
Application
Protective film comes in various size rolls and needs to be cut to size to fit different shaped substrates. Application to anything other that a completely flat surfaces for example, a window frame and glass is difficult. It is almost impossible to apply the protective film without air pockets or gaps that leave the substrate vulnerable. Compare this with Protectapeel. It is a liquid coating applied by spray or roller. Yes you may have to mask off areas however, the coating is easy to apply to different shaped surfaces.
Protection
Protective films are available in different thicknesses ranging from 30-50 microns. Protectapeel has a dry film thickness of 100 microns. The rubbery finish of Protectapeel and the additional thickness offers considerably more protection not just dirt but abrasion as well.
Weathering
Protectapeel forms a skin tight coating that can be used internally or externally regardless of the weather conditions or temperatures. Protective film, when used externally, can either bake on the sunshine or simply blow off in the wind causing litter around the site and surrounding neighbourhood.
Life Expectancy
Protectapeel will protect substrates for up to 12 months externally and longer internally if not exposed to ultra violet light. This compares with protective film that has a life expectancy of just a few weeks in some instances. Alligata, a UK supplier of protective film quote; “It depends on the scenario of usage so can vary from 2 weeks to 6 months, we recommend replacing our adhesive protection films after a 4 week period, properties can fail after this time. www.alligata.co.uk (frequently asked questions).
Removal and Disposal
Protectapeel is removed by hand and the coating condensed in to a small ball. It is suitable for landfill, classification domestic waste, or it can be returned to the manufacturer to be recycled. Protective film, when removed, is more bulky and therefore, more costly to dispose of. If not secured in the skips it can blow around the site causing environmental pollution. Another risk with protective film is that it leaves a residue on the surface when removed. Protectapeel adheres via surface tension and uses no adhesive.
