TPU colour-change wrap is a 6–8 mil thermoplastic polyurethane film that repaints a car without paint, combining a colour layer with a self-healing clear coat. It stretches over curves, resists yellowing and removes cleanly, and Shimao supplies it in 1.52 m rolls with a one-roll minimum order.
What thickness is TPU colour-change wrap?
Colour-change TPU is normally 6–8 mil (0.15–0.20 mm): thick enough to hold a deep colour and self-heal light wash marks, thin enough to wrap mirrors and bumper returns without lifting. Clear PPF is thicker at 7.5–8.5 mil because it takes direct stone impact, while PVC wrap is thinner at 3–4 mil.
How long does TPU wrap last?
Horizontal panels see the most UV, so a garage-kept car in a temperate climate gets 5–7 years from TPU, and a car parked outdoors in strong sun gets 4–5 years. Rotating the film on the bonnet and roof at year three is the common way to even out wear. PVC wrap typically lasts 3–5 years.
Does TPU colour-change film protect the original paint?
Yes. The film takes stone chips, tar and UV instead of the clear coat, and removal at the end of life is a controlled peel at 40–60 °C. On original paint in good condition there is no residue; on a previous respray or failing clear coat, adhesion should be tested on a small area first.
Reference material: ASTM International publishes the film test methods used for adhesion and optical properties, and NIST maintains public polymer property data.
