You may not know that a vinyl car wrap is a great way to completely re-invent the look of your car without a full paint job.
Indeed, it is possible to create a stunning look with the right kind of wrap, a professional installer, or a lot of patience if you do the job yourself.
In fact, if you do decide to do it yourself, you may wind up saving thousands of dollars. This article will explain what is required if you would like to vinyl wrap the car yourself.
How To Prepare The Car For A Vinyl Wrap
It is crucial that you prepare the car well if you are going to do the wrap yourself. If you do so, you will ensure that the vinyl wrap adheres well to the car and that it will last for a long time.
The first thing you should do is make sure the car’s surface is perfectly flat. Do so by filling in any dings or dents with primer. Don’t worry that the vinyl will not adhere to primer.
Next, you will need to thoroughly wash the car to ensure that the surface is clean. Using a clay bar will help you to remove any remaining particles from the surface. You should do this before you dry the car.
Next, dry the car, either with compressed air or with a towel that won’t leave behind any fibers.
It’s Time To Wrap The Car
You have carefully washed and dried your vehicle and have ensured that the surface is perfectly flat. Now, it’s time to get down to business and actually wrap the car.
If you wrap the car yourself, you may be able to do so for less than $1000. On the other hand, a professional wrap may set you back several thousand dollars. Considering the money you will be saving, it is worth it to buy quality vinyl. You will probably be able to find a 5 x 60-foot vinyl roll for about $800.
As we’ve stated in previous articles, you will find vinyl in all colors and styles, so you are sure to find one that fits your taste!
What Kind Of Tools Do I Need To Wrap A Car?
The tools you will need to wrap your car are neither expensive nor difficult to find. You can even buy kits on Amazon that contain everything you will need to wrap your car. You can use what’s in these kits to do vinyl wraps or even tint your car’s windows. A typical kit will include:
- Heat gun
- Vinyl magnets
- Vinyl cutting knife with replacement blades
- Micro wrap stick with magnets
- Long scraper tool
- Grey vinyl cutting tool
- Grey mini squeegee
- White vinyl working glove
- Vinyl squeegee with ruler design
- Felt squeegee
- Squeegee felt
- Micro squeegee
- Car wash rubber squeegee
- Red small razor scraper tool
- Yellow measure tape
- Small magnetic squeegee
Some Tips For Applying The Vinyl
Remember that when applying the vinyl, patience is a virtue. Take it slowly and apply the vinyl to the flat surfaces first to get some practice. Then, you can move on to the curved surfaces.
Unroll the vinyl as you’re applying it. Avoid leaving the vinyl on the floor so that it won’t become contaminated with dirt and dust particles.
Have someone help you separate the backing from the vinyl as you go along. Then, take your time and apply even tension to the vinyl to avoid leaving creases.
Also, if you apply the vinyl to curved surfaces, you may want to heat the material to make it softer and easier to apply.
Use a sharp knife if you need to cut the vinyl—the sharper, the better to avoid tearing the material.
Finally, if you cut the vinyl on a painted surface, make sure the blade is extra sharp. Be gentle when cutting, so you don’t scratch the paint!
How Long Does It Take To Apply?
Saving time is one of the significant advantages of having a professional do the wrap for you. However, if you have about 30-40 hours, you can do it yourself. If you take your time, have a large car, or if your car has many curved surfaces, it may take you longer.
How Long Does A Car Wrap Last?
A car wrap can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years, depending on how well you take care of it. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, the vinyl may not last as long. Also, if you frequently wash your car with harsh chemicals, the vinyl may degrade quicker.
Thicker and high-quality vinyl wraps can last up to 7 years, while cheaper, thinner vinyl may only last 2-3 years.
Caring For Your Car Wrap
When you first get your car wrap, you should avoid washing it for at least two weeks. This will give the vinyl time to cure and bond to the surface of your car. After that, you can wash it as normal, but be careful not to use harsh chemicals or scrub too hard.
You should also avoid waxing the car for at least six months. Waxes and polishes can contain chemicals that may damage the vinyl. If you must wax the car, make sure to use a product that is safe for vinyl wraps.
It is also vital to keep your vinyl wrap car out of the sun as much as possible. The sun’s UV rays can damage the vinyl and cause it to fade. When parking your car, try to park in the shade or use a sunshade on the windshield.
You should also avoid taking your car through automatic car washes. The brushes on these machines can damage the vinyl. If you must wash your car at an automatic car wash, make sure to use the touchless option.
If you take care of your car wrap, it can last for many years and protect your car’s paint job!
Is it Cheaper to Vinyl Wrap or Paint a Car?
It is cheaper to vinyl wrap your car than to paint it in most cases. This is because the cost of the vinyl and the tools you need to apply it are usually less than the cost of a professional paint job. Plus, you won’t have to pay for labor if you do it yourself!
However, if you want a custom design or color, painting your car may be better. Unfortunately, vinyl wraps are available in a limited number of colors and designs, so you may not be able to find what you’re looking for.
Also, if you plan on selling your car soon, a paint job may increase its value more than a vinyl wrap. A new paint job can make an old car look like new, while a vinyl wrap may not have the same effect.
So, if you’re looking to save money and you don’t mind a limited selection of colors and designs, vinyl wrapping your car is the way to go!
Does Wrapping a Car Devalue It?
You may actually be surprised that vinyl wrapping a car does not devalue it as initially thought. On the contrary, it may actually increase the resale value of your car in some cases!
This is because a vinyl wrap can protect your car’s paint job from scratches, fading, and other damage. So if you take care of the wrap and keep it in good condition, it can actually make your car look better than before.
Plus, if you choose a popular color or design, it can make your car more attractive to buyers. A vinyl wrap is also much cheaper than a new paint job, so it can be a good investment if you plan on selling your car.
However, if you choose a custom design or color that is not popular, it may decrease the value of your car. So, if you’re planning on selling your car soon, you may want to stick with a basic color or design.
In conclusion, vinyl wrapping a car does not devalue it as initially thought. In fact, it may actually increase the resale value of your car!
Does Vinyl Wrap Void Warranty?
One of the most common questions we get asked is whether or not a vinyl car wrap will void your vehicle’s warranty. The answer to this question is: maybe. It depends on the wording of your warranty and what you use to apply the vinyl wrap.
If your warranty specifically states that modifications will void the warranty, then applying a vinyl wrap to your car will most likely void the warranty. However, if the warranty does not specifically mention modifications, then it is unlikely that the vinyl wrap will void the warranty.
If you are concerned about voiding your warranty, we recommend using a professional vinyl installer. They will have the experience and expertise to apply the vinyl without damaging your car’s paint job or voiding your warranty.
Are You Going to Vinyl Wrap Your Car?
Overall, vinyl car wraps are a great way to protect your car’s paint job and save money. If you’re looking for a custom design or color, painting your car may be the better option. But if you’re just looking for a basic color or design, vinyl wrapping your car is the way to go!
Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might enjoy: