Kan Dail
You can be far from chemistry and consider the formula CH2=CH- strange and misunderstandable, but you’ve heard and even touched this substance. Yeah, that’s vinyl. Your parents and grands listened to phonograph records. The author’s generation listened to CDs and DVDs from other materials. Vinyl became an outsider until the youngsters found a new usage for it – they developed the production of vinyl wraps-ups for cars. Let us navigate you through the world of new types of coverage.
What is it?
The first signs of vinyl decoration in the car industry appeared in the 1950s. The drivers used it to determine their companies using the lettering and logos on the standard color. However, the idea of total wrapping came along only in 1993 thanks to the government of Germany.
It mandated the beige color for taxis. The period needed to be longer plus the color was absent anywhere. Kay Premium Making Films boosted the transition by using beige vinyl wraps. Other companies started to scale the industry. Nowadays, everybody can personalize their car with funny covers or show off their favorite items.
Vinyl vs. paint
Respect to the supporters of classic painting. Your method worked, works, and will work until the government bans it as environmentally dangerous. Both paint and vinyl protect the car from damage and corrosion. But the first method requires professional equipment and special conditions. Another con for the paint is that sometimes you must restore the whole coating if you damage a minor part of the cover.
Vinyl is much more flexible in this relation. You can replace some of the coverage without problems and visual signs. The DIY possibility allows the price to come down and decorate your car much quicker than expected. All materials and tools are easily accessible.
DIY manual
Before you start:
- Choose the interesting vinyl wrap-up.
- Go over them attentively.
- Consider the canvas and parameters of your car to calculate the square of the vinyl you need.
- Order it on the respected website.
One of the best websites for your deal is Jalapenos Decals, as it offers dozens of designs inspired by Asia with worldwide delivery. Depending on your location, the order will arrive at your door in 20 business days.
While you’re tracking the parcel, prepare your car for the procedure. Remove all dents, scratches and other defects to avoid their underlining and visualization. It’s recommended to consult your manufacturer concerning the redesign of your car on warranty. Finally, remove all obstacles and wash your car by adding non-wax products. Make the car’s diagram and mark the measurements.
Then, choose the location you will use for that. Don’t get overwhelmed in favoring the medical laboratory for that – make the environment clean enough. Consider enough space for positioning the car, tools and maneuver zone.
Install the vinyl starting from the smaller fragments. You need remeasure the surface several times each time before the cut. Be ready if you need a little more material than needed. The 60 inches of vinyl isn’t the same as 60 inches of the door. Just believe it. You can’t lay the vinyl alone. You need a helper to hold the sheet when cutting the fragment. The gloves are obligatory in this project. Vinyl is easy to cut with a utility knife.
The installation is easy. Put it on the panel and press it from the center to the edges on either side. Follow the potential chance of bubbles and excessive air problems. To remove it, gently peel it back, heat it to 120 F (80C) maximum, and work back out of it from center to edges. These challenges happen when you wrap the mirrors, wheels, or interior panels. Use the old rule about accurate dimensions. Take into account that some surfaces may be curved, which affects the amount of material used.
The final step is wrapping the edges. After that, remove the excessive material from the car with a utility knife. Activate adhesion by heating the vinyl to 100 C (212 F). Please wait for it to cool and exploit the squeegee and fingers to seal the material firmly to your car. You need to seal the edges first and then repeat the procedure to the rest of the surface. Use the thermometer to control the heating. This stage can end with bubbles, so feel free to pop it with your fingers. The blades and knives are your helpers here.
So the installation is easy. Later we’ll inform you about the maintenance of vinyl and how to remove it from the car. Subscribe and add the website to favorites to know about the news.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Wraps
Vinyl wraps are a popular alternative to traditional car paint, serving both aesthetic and protective purposes. However, like any technology, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
Aesthetic Appeal: Vinyl wraps offer a plethora of designs, colors, and finishes, allowing car owners to achieve a personalized look.
Cost-Efficient: Generally, wrapping a car is more cost-effective compared to a high-quality paint job.
Protective: Vinyl wraps can protect the original paint from the elements, minor abrasions, and UV rays, preserving the vehicle’s resale value.
Reversible: Unlike paint, wraps can be easily removed, revealing the untouched original paint beneath.
Disadvantages:
Durability Concerns: While durable, vinyl wraps are not as long-lasting as high-quality paint, requiring replacement after some years.
Improper Application: Incorrect installation can lead to peeling, bubbling, and premature aging.
Limited Protection: While it offers protection against scratches and UV rays, it can’t prevent dents or extensive damage.
Cost Comparison
When deciding between vinyl wraps and paint, cost is a pivotal consideration. A high-quality paint job can range between $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the vehicle and the quality of the paint. On the other hand, professional car wrapping can cost between $2,500 to $5,000, making it a more affordable option for most. However, bear in mind that the price of vinyl wraps may vary depending on the design’s complexity and the material’s quality.
Durability and Longevity
While vinyl wraps are renowned for their durability, their longevity is not comparable to that of a high-quality paint job. A well-maintained wrap can last up to 7 years, but exposure to elements and daily wear and tear can shorten this lifespan. In contrast, a well-done paint job, with proper maintenance, can last well over a decade, making it a more permanent solution.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining a vinyl wrap is pivotal for its longevity. Regular gentle cleaning using soap and water is recommended to prevent the accumulation of dirt and contaminants. Avoiding automatic car washes and harsh chemicals can prevent potential damage. For minor damages like scratches or peeling, seeking professional help is advisable to prevent further deterioration.
Customization Options
Vinyl wraps present boundless customization options. From an array of colors, patterns, and finishes to the possibility of showcasing intricate designs or branding, the creative possibilities are vast. Whether it’s a matte finish, a chrome look, or a unique graphic design, vinyl wraps allow car owners to manifest their personal style or business brand distinctively.