If you’re looking for a way to advertise your business and already have a fleet of vehicles, then you have a grand opportunity to turn those vehicles into moving advertisements! We’re talking about vehicle wraps. You’ve probably noticed some wrapped vehicles on the road with their logos and brightly colored graphics setting them apart from ordinary, boring solid-colored cars, vans, and trucks. When you’re stopped in traffic, it’s almost impossible to ignore a vehicle covered in a wrap, especially if that wrap has a clever message or unique design.
However, before you go forward with adding car wraps to your fleet, you’re likely to have some questions about where to begin. We’re here to answer some of those questions and explain the ins and outs of vehicle wraps so you can choose the right solution for your business with confidence.
What is a vehicle wrap?
Vehicle wraps are made of vinyl that attaches to the body of a car like a sticker. The vinyl can be printed with logos, messages, and graphics that promote whatever you want, and then it’s laminated with a film that protects it from the elements. When vehicle wraps are created, they are designed to fit perfectly on the body of the vehicle you wish to cover. There are two different types of vehicle wraps–full wraps and partial wraps. While a full wrap covers every inch of your car’s body, including the hood, sides, rear, and even the roof, a partial wrap leaves some of your car’s original paint exposed. A partial wrap can incorporate the original paint into the design and be just as effective.
Should I get vehicle wraps or decals?
Vehicle wraps aren’t the only way to make your fleet vehicles identifiable. Vehicle decals are a low-cost alternative to vehicle wraps that will still be effective in promoting your message while on the road. For businesses that are more interested in displaying their name and phone number than multicolored graphics, decals may get the job done. However, partial vehicle wraps are another way to save costs by not covering your entire vehicle with a full wrap.
How long do vehicle wraps last?
If your vehicle wraps are made with high quality vinyl, they can last up to 10 years and may not need to be removed until you replace the car itself! However, if you try to save costs by opting for cheaper vinyl, you’ll find yourself paying to replace the wrap much sooner. KC Sign & Awnings uses 3M vinyl, which is able to conform to the contours of any vehicle. Lower quality vinyl has more difficulty sticking to ridges and panels on a car or van’s body, leaving space where water and air can get underneath. This means that your wrap will start to peel and tear. Cheap vinyl will also fade in the sun more quickly.
Will car wraps damage my car?
Worried the factory paint on your new cars will be damaged by a wrap? No, it won’t! Vehicle wraps do not damage paint–if the paint is in good condition. If the paint is already chipping, then it can peel off when the wrap is removed. It’s also not recommended to put a wrap over a car that is rusting.
Can I take my wrapped car to the car wash?
If your vehicle wrap is properly installed and made with high quality 3M vinyl, it will be able to withstand the car wash with no trouble because water won’t be able to get under the wrap. There’s no way your car wrap can look its best if you have to avoid washing your vehicle so your wrap won’t get damaged–with low quality vinyl, you’ll just end up with a dirty, peeling wrap. However, hand washing is recommended if you have opted to save money by choosing a lower quality car wrap.
How can I ensure my car wrap lasts as long as possible?
While a high quality car wrap can withstand a lot of wear and tear without showing damage, it’s still important to keep proper care and maintenance in mind. This includes:
- Keeping your wrapped vehicle out of the sun by parking in a garage or under a canopy when possible to avoid sun damage
- Regularly cleaning dirt and grime from your vehicle
- Spot cleaning stains, tree sap, and bird droppings as soon as you notice them
If I want to change my graphics, is it easy to replace vehicle wraps?
If you choose a high quality vehicle wrap, you won’t have to change it for a while–but maybe you want to change up your logo or just try out a new approach. Never fear–using a little heat to loosen the adhesive, vehicle wraps can be easily removed without damage to the car’s paint. However, to ensure safe removal, it’s best to have a professional handle it.
Feeling like an expert yet? Hopefully we’ve answered some of your biggest questions about vehicle wraps. If you’ve decided that vehicle wraps are the best way to both decorate your fleet cars and advertise your business, the next step is to get in touch with a company that creates custom vehicle wraps and start discussing your design options.
