Vehicle Vinyl Wraps: Top 7 Myths about Vancouver Car Wraps
- Wetwerks Auto Spa
- Oct 24, 2020
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 13, 2021
What is a Vinyl Wrap?
A vehicle wrap is a customization technique that has been around since the 1920s. Vehicle graphics gained popularity in the 1950s for advertising purposes. The vinyl car wrap we are familiar with for aesthetic purposes rose to popularity in the ’90s.
In recent years vehicle vinyl wraps have become much more than a marketing tactic, it has become a popular way to customize and change the appearance of your car.
A vinyl wrap is a thin film applied over the vehicle paint to change its colour and or texture. It can be applied all over for a full vehicle, solid colour change, or in sections for a more personalized look, similar to a custom paint job. The wrap film can and is often used as an alternative to painting, as it is more affordable and doesn’t affect the resale value.
Why Wrap Your Car?
Although wrapped cars have been around since the 20s, the technology we use and the options we have for vinyl wraps have changed and improved.
Not only do car wraps come in a variety of colours, but a variety of finishes as well, with film series finishes such as metallic, matte, high gloss, satin and brushed steel -- just to name a few. With the limitless combinations, vinyl wraps allow for a perfectly customized car. Can’t decide on the colour? Get a color-shifting wrap. The options are endless!
Aside from the visual component of wrapping a car, wraps offer a sacrificial layer between the elements and your vehicle’s original paint. The protection film shields your car from minor abrasions, UV damage, and oxidation.
If you are someone who loves change, a vinyl wrap is far less expensive, less damaging and less time consuming than painting your car. There are many pros to wrapping your car, and we’re here to debunk some of the cons -- aka the myths.
Top 7 Myths About Vinyl Wraps
Myth 1: Vinyl Wraps Will Damage Your Car’s Paint
First, it’s important to note that not all vinyl wraps are of the same quality.
High-quality wraps, applied by a trained professional, will not damage your paint. Just make sure your car paint is fully cured before you bring it in for a wrap. This will ensure a smooth, damage-free removal.
The same, however, can not be said about low-quality wraps. Low-quality wraps may affect the finish of your paint, and leave behind a dull residue, or stains.
In fact, a high-quality wrap from companies such as 3M and Avery Dennison will actually protect your cars’ paint from the damage caused by outside elements. The vinyl wrap serves as a protective layer and can help preserve your car’s paint.
Myth 2: Vinyl Wraps Are Difficult to Remove
This myth is partially true. Lower quality wraps can be difficult to remove. A low-quality wrap may leave behind scratches during the removal process.
A high-quality wrap; one that is applied properly, is easy to remove, but should still be done by a trained professional. The right tools and techniques allow for damage-free, clean removal.
High-quality wraps are designed for a seamless removal process and will gently lift away with heat. Some vinyl production companies will even offer manufacturer warranties, to ensure the clean removal of their product.
When it comes to vinyl wraps, you get what you pay for. Make sure to invest, in a trusted, high-quality wrap for the best results.
Myth 3: You Can’t Wrap A Car With A Ceramic Coating or Paint Protection Film
You absolutely can, and should use ceramic coatings and paint protection film, in conjunction with your vinyl wrap. This will provide your vehicle with superior protection. Ceramic coatings and paint protection film go together like peanut butter and jelly - now, think of vinyl wraps as the bread!
A vinyl wrap can be applied before or after a ceramic coating. If applied under a vinyl wrap, the ceramic coating will act as a protective coat for your car's original paint. It won’t come off if you decide to remove the wrap. Application and removal of the car wrap will also not damage the ceramic coating.
If the ceramic coating is applied over top of the coating, it will act as an added layer of hardness to protect the vinyl coating. This will extend the life of the vinyl coating, but if you choose to change the vinyl at a later date, the ceramic coating will need to be re-applied.
As for paint protection film, it should be applied on top of vinyl accents to extend the longevity of the decal. If you’re planning on a full vehicle wrap, paint protection film can be applied before or after the vinyl wrap.
Myth 4: Anyone Can Install A Vinyl Wrap - DIY Wraps FTW?
Anyone can install a vinyl wrap, but few can do it well.
Trained vinyl wrap professionals will be able to smoothly apply the wrap free of any air bubbles, in the right positions. DIY projects may end up being a costly mistake. A proper application will help in extending the lifespan of the vinyl.
If the vinyl wrap is applied incorrectly, it will be expensive to remove and replace the vinyl. A wrong application may result in air bubbles, and wasted product as the vinyl can not be reused. The vinyl may also lift and fade prematurely if applied incorrectly.
Leave the wrapping to the professionals for a smooth, stress-free application.
Myth 5: Vinyl Wraps Are Not Long-Lasting
There are different variables that affect the lifespan of a vinyl wrap.
How long do they normally last? Typically, vehicle vinyl wraps last between 5 and 7 years. Cars that are frequently outside, due to driving or parking, are prone to faster wear. The same goes for cars that use abrasive automatic car washes.
In comparison, cars that have an additional layer of paint protection film or ceramic coating on top of the vinyl wrap will extend longevity.
In order to get the most out of your vinyl wrap, always park inside when you can and opt for a two-bucket wash method or professional auto detailing.
Myth 6: You Can’t Wrap A Leased Car
Wrapping leased vehicles is very common, business often wrap leased vehicles for advertising. Leasing companies allow vehicle wrapping, as it doesn’t damage the paint of the car. In fact, if done properly, it helps to protect the car’s paint and won’t affect the resale value.
Wrapping a leased vehicle is an easy and damage-free way to personalize your car. That being said, make sure to double-check your lease. While most leasing companies allow vinyl wrapping, there are the occasional few that don’t. Just be sure to do your research!
Myth 7: Wraps Require A Lot Of Maintenance
Vinyl wrapped cars require the same amount of care as a non-wrapped car. They don’t require any additional steps in car care.
Just as you would a regular car, always opt for a hand wash or professional detailing. Use a pH neutral car shampoo, and a microfibre towel to dry. Never wash your car under the sun on a hot day, and never try to scrape off difficult stains. Always try to clean up bird droppings, tree sap and other contaminants as soon as possible to prevent them from drying and sticking to your vehicle.
Never use products that are not designed for your car. The kitchen cleaner is not a substitute for car shampoo, vinyl wrapped or not.
Vinyl wraps are a more affordable alternative to changing the paint of your car entirely. Similar to repainting, before a vinyl wrap is applied the car must have a smooth and even base for the best results. Not only are they a fun way to personalize your car, but vinyl wraps also offer a layer of protection for the paint of your car.
Vancouver’s Vinyl Wrapping Specialists: We’re Here to Help!
Is it time to request a quote or book a vinyl wrap for your beloved vehicle? Leave it to the pros.
When you book with Wetwerks Auto Spa, you can rest assured knowing that your car is in the best hands. We love cars, as much as you do. Our certified techs are professionally trained and we only use the highest quality products, including System X Ceramic Coating and XPEL Paint Protection Film.
Don’t forget - we offer 10% off every visit for our valued VIP members subscribed to wetwerksautospa.com.
Whether you’re looking for car detailing, paint correction, ceramic coatings, or for protection against the elements, contact Wetwerks Auto Spa’s specialists today for a free consultation today!
The best option that your car deserves. An eye for detail you can trust.
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