It’s time to step up your game, paint. Vinyl wraps can outshine you any day!
And with a market size projected to reach $17.6 billion globally by 2027, they are here to stay.
A wrap on a car can boost your business and simply do things not possible with a paint job, but how long do they last? Seeing as they are made to be temporary, that’s the big question. Luckily we’re here to shed some light on the subject.
What Is a Car Wrap?
A car wrap is a set of vinyl decals that adhere to the outside panels of your car. They can be used to change the color of the car by being placed over your current paint job, without making permanent changes.
The cool part is you can get pretty much any color, design, or graphic you want!
Businesses can use a wrap on a car to stand out against their competition and advertise their products or services.
Factors Affecting Longevity
So, how long does a vinyl wrap last? That depends.
How long it lasts depends on the surrounding environment and care it receives. The lifespan of a vinyl car wrap also changes depending on how much use the car gets.
A vinyl wrap that is constantly exposed to the sun’s UV rays will not last as long as one parked in the shade, or better yet, in a garage. Exposure to extreme temperatures, be it hot or cold, will also shorten the lifespan of your vinyl wrap.
If you start to see small bubbles appearing in the wrap, this could signal that your car is in too harsh of temperatures. It’s best to not press these down in an effort to fix them. Take your car back to the installer to have the bubbles professionally dealt with.
Another factor that contributes to the longevity of your vinyl wrap is the quality of the install job. A professional install will help your wrap last longer, so be sure to go to a reputable car wrap company.
How Long Will the Wrap on a Car Last?
A wrap on a car that is driven daily, exposed to sun and harsh weather conditions could last as little as 2 years. Simply parking in the shade can have a big impact on the life span of your vinyl wrap, increasing its life expectancy by 1 to 2 years.
Car wraps that are lightly used, sheltered from the elements, and well cared for can last between 5 and 7 years.
Care Tips
You’ll want to wash your wrap frequently to keep it clean and extend its lifespan. But improper washings can cause more harm than good. To avoid hurting your car wrap, be sure to:
- Hand wash your vehicle using a soft detergent
- Use a soft cloth, avoiding anything abrasive
- Rinse car thoroughly after washing
- Avoid automatic car washes
- Avoid waxing or polishing vehicle
Hit the Gas on a Vinyl Wrap
A vinyl wrap on a car will last longer if the vehicle is less frequently used and sheltered from the elements. But of course, you have to get out there and show off your new wrap. Don’t leave it in the garage collecting dust!
Call a professional in your area to see how long their wraps typically last. And for more information about cars, check out the rest of our blog!