Choosing the right vinyl for your car involves considering factors like the type of vinyl, intended use,
durability, and personal preferences. Here are some steps to help you make the right decision:
- Purpose and Intended Use:
- Interior or Exterior: Determine whether you want vinyl for interior or exterior applications.
Interior vinyl is often different from exterior vinyl in terms of adhesive and durability. Interior is mainly
small thin pieces, so using a thick exterior vinyl will cause major problems. Oracal 631 and 651 comes in
hundreds of colors and works great for these types of applications. Vinyl wrapping is a growing industry
and there are a lot of companies out there now that offer products, but not all are created equal.
- Type of Vinyl:
- Calendered Vinyl or Cast Vinyl: Calendered vinyl is more economical but may not conform as
well to complex curves. Some would say calendered vinyl has a longer life but most vinyl will last a long
time with the right care. Cast vinyl is more flexible and durable, making it suitable for curved surfaces.
As you scroll through social media and a million vibrant color ads for vinyl appear, they ar more than
likely cast vinyls.
- Vinyl Finish:
- Gloss, Matte, or Satin: Decide on the finish that suits your preferences and the overall look you
want for your car. Gloss is shiny like the clearcoat of a car’s paint. Matte is non-reflective and isa
popular choice as it looks unique on cars. Matched with a standout color your ride will become a
conversation piece. Satin falls in between these two types. It is all on personal preference for what finish
you want to go with. If you don’t keep protective coating on it or wash regularly, matte and sating
finishes will hold dirt easier then gloss and will be noticeable on lighter colors.
- Durability:
- Longevity: Consider the expected lifespan of the vinyl. Some vinyl is designed for short-term
applications, while others are meant to last for several years. Thickness can also play a role if you live
and commute somewhere, where your vehicle takes hits to the front end. - UV Resistance: Look for vinyl that has UV-resistant properties to prevent fading or damage from
prolonged sun exposure. There are several products made for vinyl UV protection. In my opinion Wrap
Fresh has some amazing ceramic coating that look amazing.
- Brand and Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Stick to reputable brands with a history of producing high-quality vinyl
products. Read reviews and ask for recommendations. When I say reputable, that doesn’t mean go
straight to 3M, you pay more, and the color choices are less. You can join a forum and there would be
thousands of comments on what is best. I have wrapped with quite a few and all have done the job.
Some easier than others, but it all depends on what you are looking for and what type of car it is.
- Ease of Installation:
- DIY or Professional Installation: Some vinyl may be easier to install than others. If you plan to
install it yourself, choose a vinyl that is user-friendly for DIY applications. Some brands have more
tackiness than other’s which can make it difficult when you are learning. Use a tack reducer or choose a
different brand. Avery Denison is a major company that is easy to work with. Others like Teckwrap,
VinylFrog and Vvivid are good for learning. Installation may be a challenge, but prices are a bit cheaper,
so try and try again.
- Budget:
- Cost Consideration: Set a budget for your project and find a vinyl that meets your requirements
within that budget. If you are using this blog to learn and want to start a business, don’t use cheap
vinyls just to make a better margin. Again your product is a business card that is seen on the road.
Going cheap and having problems will ensure you don’t see that customer again. Also, when installing
on someone’s car, take into consideration the shapes and curves of the car and also any damage that
may need repaired and disassembly. Time is money!
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for application and maintenance to ensure the best results
and longevity for your vinyl application. If you’re unsure, consulting with professionals or experienced
DIY enthusiasts can provide valuable insights and advice. The Wrap Lab is here for the community so we
can all learn, grow and be successful.
