What Is a Car Wrap? Plus, Should You Get One?

What is a car wrap? Interested in how car wraps are applied and what they're used for? If you're wondering, your business could probably use one!

Are you looking for unique designs and branding on your vehicle without the hassle of a respray? You can achieve the finish you want using a car wrap, and surprisingly, it is a very simple process. This will create a unique vehicle, that is sure to catch the eye of any passer-by. 

If you are wondering what car wraps are and how they work, read on. Below, we answer the question "What is a car wrap?" in our must-know guide. 

What Is a Car Wrap?

A car wrap is a process in which a vinyl film is added to the exterior of an automobile. This transforms the vehicle's appearance, allowing it to have a customized look. This wrap makes no change to the original paintwork on the car, so it can change back if the owner wants. 

What Is a Car Wrap Made Of?

A car wrap is made from a vinyl film. It is applied using a heat treatment that activates adhesive on the back of the film. This seals the film to the body of the vehicle. 

The vinyl itself can come in a number of finishes and gradients. They can have matte color schemes, gradients, chrome metallics, and even company branding. 

It is different from a paint job, as you are not changing the original paint that is on the car body. In a paint job, the car has to go through a lengthy process in which the original paint has to be stripped and the body prepared. Color is then applied using a spray device, then when this is dried, a protective coat. 

How Do I Maintain It?

A car wrap does take some maintenance. The benefit of this is that it is always protecting the original paint underneath. If your car is exposed to heavy use, dirt and pollutants regularly, then you should aim to wash it once a week. 

Always wash it by hand, avoiding high-pressure washers. This should be done using warm water, a sponge, and a good quality car soap. Once you have washed it you should rinse it thoroughly with clean water. 

You could use an automated car wash, but try to avoid ones with brushes. The harsh tools can rip off the wrap. This will cause color degradation, peeling, and lifted edges. 

If you encounter difficult stains like tree sap, bird droppings, and squashed insects, you must clean them immediately. They contain acids and alkalis that can erode the wrap and the body of your vehicle if left. However, being too harsh on them can also damage the area. 

If you encounter these stains, soak them in warm soapy water to loosen the dried material. Rinse them thoroughly then dry with a microfibre cloth. If the stain is very stubborn you may use some weak alcohol then remove it immediately. 

How Long Do Vehicle Wraps Last?

When you change the color of your car with a paint job, it can last a long time. This can be from a few years to a lifetime, depending upon how well the car is maintained. However, it does require maintenance in the form of regular waxing.

Vinyl is easier to maintain. It does not require waxing but simply needs a weekly wash. A vinyl wrap can last anywhere between two to ten years. 

What Is the Process?

The car wrap starts off as a large piece of vinyl film. The company conducting the wrap will take measurements of the vehicle that you wish to wrap. A discussion will then take place about the finishes, colors, and branding you want to apply.

Once done, they will start to create your design. They will produce the vinyl film with your requested design on it, print it, and laminate it. This protects from damage and UV rays.

Finally, the wrap will be installed. It will be carefully cut and moved into place, then applied with a heat treatment to bond it to the vehicle. Wrapping a car will take a lot less longer than having a full paint job done. 

How Much Do They Cost?

Car wrap costs can vary greatly. They all depend upon the quality of the wrap, materials used, the design, and the size of the vehicle. 

Some considerations to take into account are the make, model, and size of your vehicle. You should then consider the existing paintwork. If it is rusting or bubbled, it may be harder for the person wrapping to get a smoother finish, making the job harder and more expensive. 

Then think about if you need a solid color wrap or a digitally printed, commercial branding wrap. Custom printing will always cost more because of the time and materials involved. Think about how much of the car you would like wrapped, and how far the wrap will go. 

Like most services, the cheaper your wrap, the less effective the result will be. Cheap wraps will not have the durability that more expensive ones do. The finish may also be bubbled and uneven, telltale signs of a budget wrap. 

What Are the Advantages of a Wrap?

Car wrapping has a great number of customization options. You can make your car look very unique. The ability to print also lets you have intricate, imaginative designs that would be extremely difficult to execute in a normal paint job. 

They are also easy to remove and replace. If you have a business, this is a great advantage, as you can change logos, prices, and special offers that may be branding your vehicles. 

Contact a Professional

Now you can answer the question "What is a car wrap?" you need to ask yourself what you are waiting for. A unique, eye-catching design can bring a lot of attention, which can be great for your brand awareness.

If you are thinking of a wrap, then contact Ultimate Film Solutions. We have an expert, experienced team who can answer all your automotive needs. Contact us for a quote on your wrap today and get customizing that car!