One of our most common questions we get from first time luxury car owners is, what are vinyl wraps? Well, in short, a vinyl car wrap is a method of improving styling and providing some protection by wrapping an entire vehicle using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymer. Vinyl wraps are resistant to UV light and come in many different colors. Moreover, it is flexible enough to wrap around a car’s entire body.
Modern vinyl wraps are very thin. They can be as thin as 2 millimeters. Each vinyl wrap has a plastic sheet with an adhesive back to stick onto a vehicle. After applying the adhesive, vinyl wraps can be made into smaller rolls or sent to printers for personalized graphics and designs.
Vinyl wraps can also come in several different finishes, including metallic, matte, gloss, reflective, color-changing, Pantone, and pearlescent. Car owners can mix and match finishes, colors, patterns, and styles to create a unique design.
But, they’re not bulletproof. And if you’re looking for optimal protection against road debris, and environmental exposure, there are better options. However, vinyl wraps serve a purpose for vehicle owners in Charlotte, NC.
So – let’s take a look at what vinyl wraps are, what they’re best suited for, and other details that will help you make an informed decision.
The Purpose of a Vehicle Wrap
What is a vehicle wrap’s purpose? There are two main reasons why people get a vehicle vinyl wrap: aesthetics and protection.
- Aesthetics. A car wrap allows car owners to customize their vehicles to their heart’s content. They can choose from multiple colors, finishes, and designs. Moreover, companies can also utilize vinyl wraps to advertise their products, services, and brands.
- Protection. Vinyl wraps help maintain a car’s original paint condition. They can protect from debris, dings, scratches, dents, bird droppings, tree saps, and harsh weather.
Both can contribute to a car’s longevity and resale value. If a car owner wants to sell their vehicle sometime in the future, they can simply remove the vinyl wrap and put the car up for sale. While the vehicle may have been subject to wear and tear, having the original paint in near-mint condition will attract potential buyers.
Why Not Paint the Car Instead?
High-quality paint jobs require extensive effort, technical skill, and a dedicated area to get right. This is because paint jobs usually involve stripping the car to the bare metal and applying a new coat of paint and a clear coat. Thus, high-end paint jobs are expensive and can cost several thousand dollars.
In contrast, a vinyl wrap for cars is a cheaper alternative to paint. From afar, it looks like a factory paint job and is much better quality than low-cost spray paint jobs. A car body wrap can breathe new life into the car without breaking the bank.
Vinyl Wrap for Cars: Pros and Cons
While vinyl wraps are cheaper than high-end paint jobs, they can still be a big investment, depending on the design and detailing. Car owners should weigh the pros and cons carefully before diving in. Here are some plus sides and downsides to consider.
Plus Sides
The biggest advantage of vinyl wrapping is its variety of car wrap colors and finishes. You can achieve a similar effect with paint, but paint is a lot more expensive and time-consuming. You won’t be able to drive your car until the paint job is done.
In addition, vinyl wraps are flexible and much easier to fix because they only use adhesive. You can quickly turn your car back to normal if necessary. What’s more, the original paint job is preserved in pristine condition.
Downsides
Vehicle wraps need to be handled by a professional to look high-quality. One wrong move in the application process can make it look cheap. Moreover, it might be less durable and fade faster over time. A low-quality wrap can also damage the original paint.
Some people also just like the look of paint much better than vinyl wraps. Furthermore, vinyl wraps are often a temporary solution. They can transform your car’s appearance, but they won’t be a permanent fix. If you want to make a design permanent, a paint job might be the better choice.
Finally, vinyl wraps do not hide imperfections like dents and scratches. They only act like a second skin, and all the dents and scuffs underneath will be visible.
How Much Does It Cost to Vinyl Wrap a Car?
The car wrap cost can vary greatly depending on the complexity, design, size, and required labor. In some cases, professional vinyl wrappers will need to remove the front and rear bumpers to cover all the crevices. This will require more extensive work and technical skills.
Additionally, cars with sharper creases and curved bodies may need more work than flat and smooth ones. The size also matters, as a four-door sedan might be more costly than a two-door sports car.
Generally, a standard full vinyl wrap for cars costs between $2,000 and $4,000. Depending on the finish and complexity, the price can increase significantly to $6,000, $10,000, or more.
How to Care for a Wrapped Car
Vinyl wraps do not last indefinitely. They often have a shorter lifespan than paint jobs, paint protection films (PPFs), and other types of protection. Nonetheless, there are some things you can do to increase their longevity:
- Stay away from Harsh Weather. Exposure to high temperatures, leaving the car out in the sun, and salt used on snowy roads can damage the wrap over time. Park the car in a garage or somewhere protected from the elements. You can also use a car cover.
- Wash by Hand. Vinyl-wrapped cars should be washed by hand with a waterless car wash product and a soft microfiber rag.
- Wash Regularly. Try washing the car at least once a week (or more frequently if it’s regularly exposed to pollutants and dirt). Regular washing will keep the wrap in good condition.
- Avoid Brush Washing. If you cannot hand wash the vehicle, bringing it to an automated brushless car wash is best. Brushes are often too rough on the film and can cause peeling and degradation.
How Long Does Vinyl Wrap for Cars Last?
The longevity of the vinyl wrap depends on how well you take care of it. Typically, well-maintained vinyl wraps can last up to four or five years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vinyl Wrap Damage Easily?
Good-quality vinyl wraps are durable and made from high-quality materials. They should be able to withstand wear and tear from daily driving. Moreover, well-maintained car wraps can last several years.
Does Vinyl Wrap Fade in the Sun?
Yes, too much direct sunlight may fade the vinyl wrap and affect its lifespan.
Is Vinyl Wrap Waterproof?
Not inherently, but they do offer some degree of water resistance. They can withstand some water and moisture without losing their adhesive strength. However, moisture can still penetrate the wrap over time, especially with prolonged exposure to water or harsh weather conditions.
How are Vinyl Wraps and Paint Protection Films Different?
Vinyl wraps and PPFs are typically the same in the installation process. However, PPF is clear, while vinyl wraps are colored. Moreover, PPFs provide better protection and are more durable than vinyl wraps.
Protect Your Car Paint with Vinyl Wrap
A vinyl wrap for cars is a more affordable alternative to a high-end paint job. It’s a great way to add color to your vehicle or give it a new finish. However, if you want it to look the best, it’s best to get a professional to do it.
Lasting Impressions provides ceramic coating, paint protection films, and vinyl wrapping to car owners across North Carolina. Call us now at (980) 237-2381 or contact us online to get an inspection!
