Best Vinyl Material Brands to Use for Vehicle Wrapping

Are you tired of seeing your plain car or truck every day? Want to give it a fresh look without breaking the bank? Consider getting a vehicle wrap! But before you do, you'll need to know what materials to use. In this article, we'll go over the best materials to use for vehicle wraps, so you can protect your ride in style.

The Best Materials for Vehicle Wraps

When it comes to vehicle wraps, the material you choose is just as important as the design. The right material can protect your car from scratches, UV rays, and other damage. Here are the best materials to use for vehicle wraps:

Understanding Cast Vinyl

Cast vinyl is a premium-grade material specifically engineered for vehicle wraps. It is manufactured through a process called casting, where liquid vinyl is poured onto a casting sheet and then cured to form a thin and flexible film. This unique manufacturing method allows cast vinyl to maintain its shape and conform to complex curves and contours, ensuring a seamless and professional-looking finish.

The Advantages of Cast Vinyl for Vehicle Wraps

When it comes to quality and performance, cast vinyl surpasses many other materials used for vehicle wraps. Here are some compelling reasons why cast vinyl is highly regarded by professional installers and vehicle enthusiasts alike:

1. Superior Conformability: Cast vinyl's exceptional conformability is its standout feature. This material is incredibly pliable and can be stretched and molded to fit even the most intricate and challenging surfaces of a vehicle. Whether your vehicle has deep recesses, sharp curves, or textured areas, cast vinyl can conform seamlessly, giving your gloss wrap a flawless appearance.
2. Durability that Lasts: Cast vinyl is known for its long-lasting performance. With proper care and maintenance, a cast vinyl wrap can protect your vehicle's paint and maintain its vibrant colors for up to 10 years. Its exceptional resistance to fading, cracking, and peeling makes it an ideal choice for both personal and commercial vehicles.
3. UV Resistance: UV rays from the sun can cause significant damage to your vehicle's paint over time. However, cast vinyl wraps are specifically designed to resist UV radiation, protecting your vehicle's paint and ensuring that the wrap retains its original color and vibrancy for years to come.
4. Wide Range of Colors and Finishes: Cast vinyl offers an extensive variety of colors, finishes, and textures, allowing you to customize your vehicle wrap according to your personal preferences and style. Whether you prefer a glossy, matte, metallic, or textured finish, cast vinyl can fulfill your vision and create a truly eye-catching design.
5. Professional Appearance: Due to its exceptional conformability and quality, cast vinyl wraps have a professional appearance that can't be matched by other materials. The smooth, seamless finish creates the illusion of a paint job rather than a wrap, giving your vehicle a high-end look that is sure to turn heads on the road.

What is Calendered Vinyl?

Calendered vinyl is a type of vinyl material that is produced using a calendering process. In this process, the vinyl is heated and pressed between a series of rollers to create a thin, flexible sheet. Unlike cast vinyl, which is made through a different manufacturing method, calendered vinyl is less expensive to produce, making it a more affordable option for vehicle wraps.

Advantages of Calendered Vinyl for Vehicle Wraps

Calendered vinyl offers several advantages that make it a desirable choice for many vehicle wrap projects. Here are some key benefits:

1. Affordability: One of the primary advantages of calendered vinyl is its cost-effectiveness. If you're working within a budget or have a large vehicle to wrap, calendered vinyl can be a more economical option compared to other materials.
2. Ease of Installation: Calendered vinyl is generally easier to install compared to other types of vinyl. Its thicker, stiffer nature allows for simpler handling during the application process, which can be beneficial for DIY projects or those with less experience in vehicle wrapping.
3. Durability: While calendered vinyl may not have the same longevity as cast vinyl, it still offers decent durability. With proper care and maintenance, a calendered vinyl wrap can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years, providing adequate protection and an enhanced appearance for your vehicle during that time.
4. Versatility: Calendered vinyl is available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures, allowing for versatility in design options. Whether you prefer a glossy, matte, metallic, or textured look, calendered vinyl can cater to your creative vision.
5. UV Resistance: Most calendered vinyl wraps are equipped with UV-resistant properties, ensuring that the vibrant colors and graphics on your vehicle won't fade or deteriorate quickly when exposed to sunlight. This is particularly important for those living in regions with intense sunlight or hot climates.

Film Wraps

Film wraps, also known as graphic or printed wraps, involve the use of printed designs, patterns, or images applied to the surface of a vehicle using high-quality adhesive vinyl film. These films come in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures, allowing for unparalleled customization options. From vibrant graphics to lifelike textures and stunning effects, film wraps can transform the appearance of any vehicle into a unique work of art.

Advantages of Film Wraps for Vehicle Customization

Film wraps offer several advantages that make them a preferred choice for vehicle customization projects. Here are some key benefits to consider:

1. Unlimited Design Options: Film wraps allow for limitless design possibilities. Whether you want to showcase your brand, create eye-catching advertising, or simply personalize your vehicle with a one-of-a-kind design, film wraps offer the flexibility to bring your vision to life. Custom designs can be printed onto the vinyl film, ensuring that your vehicle stands out from the crowd.
2. Enhanced Protection: In addition to providing a visually striking appearance, film wraps offer an additional layer of protection for your vehicle's original paint. The vinyl film acts as a barrier against minor scratches, chips, and fading caused by UV rays. This protective layer can help maintain the resale value of your vehicle while preserving its original paintwork.
3. Easy Maintenance: Film wraps are designed to be low maintenance, requiring only regular washing with mild soap and water. The protective layer makes it easier to clean dirt and grime, and it also helps resist stains and marks. Unlike traditional paint jobs, film wraps can be easily repaired or replaced if any damage occurs, saving you time and money.
4. Non-Permanent Option: One of the notable advantages of film wraps is that they offer a non-permanent solution for vehicle customization. Unlike paint, vinyl wraps can be safely removed without damaging the original paintwork. This flexibility allows you to change the design or revert to the vehicle's original appearance whenever desired, making film wraps a versatile choice for personal and commercial vehicles.
5. Installation and Customization: Film wraps are typically installed by professional technicians who have experience in handling and applying vinyl films. They have the expertise to ensure a seamless and professional finish, particularly when it comes to aligning intricate designs and wrapping complex curves and contours of a vehicle. This ensures that your wrap looks flawless and achieves the desired visual impact.

Laminates

Laminates also sometimes referred to as a clear bra are transparent layers that are applied over the top of a vehicle wrap. They are typically made from high-quality polymeric materials that offer exceptional durability and UV resistance. The primary purpose of laminates is to provide an additional layer of protection against environmental factors such as UV rays, dirt, debris, and minor scratches.

Advantages of Laminates for Vehicle Wraps

The use of laminates in vehicle wraps brings several advantages that contribute to the longevity and overall appearance of the wrap. Here are some key benefits to consider:

1. Enhanced UV Protection: Laminates act as a barrier against harmful UV rays from the sun, preventing them from fading the colors of the wrap over time. The UV resistance of laminates helps preserve the vibrant and crisp look of the wrap, ensuring that it retains its original visual impact for a longer period.
2. Increased Durability: Laminates provide an extra layer of protection against minor scratches, abrasions, and other physical damage that can occur during everyday use. The clear film shields the underlying vinyl wrap, reducing the risk of wear and tear. This added durability extends the lifespan of the wrap, keeping it looking fresh and intact.
3. Easier Maintenance: Laminates make vehicle wraps easier to clean and maintain. The smooth, non-porous surface of the laminate allows dirt, dust, and other debris to be easily wiped away. Additionally, the clear film resists staining, making it more resistant to the accumulation of dirt and grime. Regular cleaning becomes more convenient, resulting in a well-maintained and visually appealing wrap.
4. Gloss Enhancement: Laminates often have a glossy finish, which enhances the overall appearance of the vehicle wrap. The clear film intensifies the colors and adds a sleek shine, giving the wrap a polished and professional look. The glossy finish can make the design elements pop and create a visually stunning effect that catches the eye.
5. Easy Removal: In the event that you decide to remove or change your vehicle wrap in the future, laminates make the process easier. The clear film can be removed without damaging the underlying vinyl wrap, allowing for a smooth transition or replacement. This flexibility gives you the freedom to update the look of your vehicle without any major complications.

Best Brands

Here are the top 3 best material manufacturers' brands that professionals recommend you use. If you are interested in getting a vehicle wrap these are the brands you should use or recommend to your installer.

3M

3M is a renowned brand that sells a variety of high-quality products with a huge range of vinyl. From all types of tape, glue, vinyl, and so much more. They produce and sell high-quality vinyl/film that is used for vehicle wraps and other things like paint protection film. If you are pulling the trigger on getting your vehicle wrapped, most professionals would recommend 3M.

Avery Dennison

Avery Dennison is another great option when it comes to high-quality material. They manufacture and sell all types of vinyl and films. For vehicles, buildings, window tints, and application tools. They are another renowned brand in the industry and an amazing option.

Orafol

Orafol is one of the leading vinyl manufacturers and distributors in the world. They produce Oracal 851 vinyl which is high-quality vinyl along with heaps of other products. This is another brand that is highly recommended by professionals for vehicle wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do vehicle wraps last?

A: The lifespan of a vehicle wrap depends on the material used and how well it's maintained. Cast vinyl wraps can last up to 10 years, while calendered vinyl wraps may only last 3-5 years.

Q: Can I wash my vehicle wrap?

A: Yes, it is recommended that you wash your vehicle wrap. Use a mild detergent and a soft sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the wrap.

Q: Will a vehicle wrap damage my paint?

A: No, if applied correctly, a vehicle wrap should not damage your paint. In fact, it can actually protect your paint from scratches and UV rays.

Q: Can I remove my vehicle wrap myself?

A: Yes, you can remove a vehicle wrap yourself, but it's best to have it removed by a professional to avoid damaging your vehicle's paint.

Q: Can I wrap my motorcycle or boat?

A: Yes, vehicle wraps can be applied to motorcycles, boats, and even airplanes.

Q: How much does a vehicle wrap cost?

A: The cost of a vehicle wrap depends on the size of your vehicle, the complexity of the design, and the material used. On average, a full vehicle wrap can cost anywhere from £2,500 to £7,000.

Conclusion

If you want to give your truck, van, or car a fresh look, a vehicle wrap is a great option. Picking the right material for your circumstances is a crucial step. Cast vinyl, calendered vinyl, wrap film, and laminates are all great choices for protecting and styling your vehicle.

If you're interested in wrapping your company's vehicle fleet, don't hesitate to contact us today. Our team of experts can help you design a high-quality wrap design that will make a lasting impression and help you stand out from the competition. Contact us online or call us today at 07487 550930 to learn more and take the first step toward maximizing your company’s visibility with vehicle wraps.

Do you want to read more about vehicle wraps? Take a look at our blog post about Vehicle Wrap Cost, The Top 10 Benefits Of Vehicle Wrapping & The Pros & Cons Of Vehicle Wrapping