Car wraps are a great inexpensive alternative to car paints. A freshly wrapped car will attract thousands of eyes everyday, in addition car wraps also protect the original paint of the car from debris, UV radiation, dirt and minor scratches. These properties of the wrap make it seem the perfect upgrade for your car, But do they last as much as they charm? How long does a car wrap last?
Generally a good quality car wrap will last around 5 to 6 years, whereas greater quality wraps can extend up to 7 years. After the 5 year period the wrap will start to show its age with signs like cracking, fading and peeling off.
How Long Does a Vinyl Wrap Last?
The most popular wrap option for cars is the Vinyl wrap as it is the most customizable, durable, and cost effective option for car wrapping. It also acts as a protective guard for your car’s original paint and It is reversible meaning you can change it without hassling too much.
So a common question to pop up is exactly how long does a Vinyl wrap last?
A wrap’s life depends on the condition and environment that its been put through, but for general outcome the Vinyl wrap can last about 5 to 7 years after which it starts to show signs of aging like cracking, fading and peeling off.
This might beg a question that are there any ways to extend the wrap’s life span, well lets look at some.
How to Make Your Wrap Last Longer
You can look out for 3 main factors to look out for your wraps to last long
Proper Preparation
It’s important.to prepare properly before wrapping rather than blatantly applying the wrap. Follow the given steps for the best possible wrapping.
Thoroughly Clean your Car
Wash your car thoroughly with non-wax soap to remove any dirt or grease. This will allow for the wrap to properly stick to your car without leaving any loose ends or causing bubbles in the wrap.
Inspect for Damage
Make sure to inspect properly for any kind of damage to the surface of the car. If any damage is found, firstly repair a flawless wrap.
Temperature Control
Car wraps are really sensitive to temperature, so make sure to keep the temperature in check, and keep it optimal for the wrap to be applied properly.
Professional installation
Make sure to install the wrap using a professional rather than doing it yourself, as it requires steady hands, and tremendous skill and precision for the best possible outcome.
Reputable Wrap Company
Second factor for a long lasting wrap is the wrap company itself. Make sure to work with a trusted company that has its experience in the field. Make sure to look at their reviews and track records. Remember the wraps are gonna stay for a few years at least so, do your research.
High Quality Materials
Never compromise on the quality of the material of the wrap. Make sure the company uses premium brands like 3M,Oracal and Avery Dennison. The quality of the material will directly affect its longevity and how well it protects the vehicle’s paint.
Caring for a Wrapped Vehicle
Caring is an important aspect in car wraps. In order for your car wraps to last properly, maintenance and care is essential. Here are some important points to keep in mind.
Always remember to regularly wash and clean your car, and also remember to properly dry your car using a microfiber towel(Want to learn how to clean your car here’s a Comprehensive Guide on Car Washing: Tips, Techniques, and Best Practices!). One more important thing is to avoid very long sun exposure, prolonged exposure to UV radiation will cause the wrap to fade and deteriorate faster.
Lastly, always keep a check on the wrap. If you notice any sort of damage, even small ones, be sure to repair it. This will prevent any bigger damage to build up like peels and heavy scratches.
Pressure Washing a Wrapped Vehicle
Pressure washing is a good idea to clean your wrapped cars, but make sure to keep low pressure of the water for safety of the wrap. However, It is recommended to use mild soap and water with hands to clean the wrap, as it keeps the wraps integrity and longevity.
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