Vehicle Wrap Installations 101
Often described as a billboard on wheels, vehicle wrap installations are digitally printed advertisements made from heavy-duty vinyl.
Whereas traditional forms of advertising, such as print, TV, and radio, involve recurring costs, time, and placement restrictions, a colorful vehicle wrap is a cost-effective on-the-go solution.
Recently however, this aftermarket practice of covering a vehicle’s original paint job with a vinyl wrap of a different color and or finish, such as gloss, matte or a clear protective layer, has seen an upsurge in popularity among everyday vehicle owners. And we can see why—vehicle wrap installations not only often look amazing, but can protect your vehicle from road debris, and can even be removed without damaging your beloved paint job.
Typically, where there’s a client approved design set in-place, and the sizing, coloring, and technical specifications of the vehicle wrap has been reviewed by our design team, the digital files are printed on 3M vinyl and laminated. 3M vinyl contains an adhesive backing that’s both pressure and heat sensitive, which makes the vinyl movable and adjustable until the proper pressure and heat is applied, as well as channels to allow air to escape, thus eliminating bubbles.
The graphics come printed on 60-inch-wide vinyl rolls that measure 25 feet long, which is about how much it takes to wrap an entire car.
It’s crucial that before performing a vehicle wrap installation, our team gives the car a thorough wash, as well as ample time to dry. Ideally, this is done the day before the scheduled installation and in an indoor environment.
To make sure that the 3M vinyl sticks properly, the vehicle needs to be as squeaky clean as possible. So even after the wash and dry, the surface of the vehicle will then be wiped down with paint cleaners and alcohol to ensure removal of any leftover debris, soap film, or chemicals.
Afterwards, all side mirrors, molding, logos, and light covers are removed, and we can begin installing the vinyl wrap.
The wrap is separated and applied on the vehicle in sections. With the help of a utility knife, our installer cuts the vinyl into pieces that will cover individual body panels. Using tape or magnets, the vinyl is then held in place while the backing paper is removed, thus revealing the adhesive.
Once exposed, the vinyl is then applied either onto the center of the body panel, or from the start of one side before being smoothen out with a Teflon squeegee. During the application process our installers will use heat guns to encourage the vinyl to stretch to fit over curves and sharp bumper edges, or, if necessary, for re-positioning. Afterwards, the edges of the vinyl are cut off with a utility knife, and voila! you have yourself a vehicle wrap installation designed to provide color and laminate coatings for up to the next 10 years.
Whether your needs are cosmetic or protective, the process involved in a vehicle wrap installation requires talent, precision, and an eye for detail.
Protecting your paint job from scratches, debris, and fading over time, vehicle wrap installations offer a cost effective way to either advertise with or revitalize your vehicle.
Check out a video of our team doing a vehicle wrap installation for The Delivery Guys below:
Need help implementing your summer marketing campaign? If so, contact us today!
