The Perfect Vehicle Install

What is a vehicle wrap?

A wrap is a large vinyl graphic applied directly over the original paint of the vehicle. The application of the wrap allows you to change the vehicle’s appearance quickly and without damage to the paint.

What is involved in the wrapping process?

Vehicle wraps are comprised of four phases. First is the consultation phase where we will inspect the vehicle, take measurements, and discuss the design. Next is the design phase, where we will layout the graphics for the wrap. Then comes the production phase, where the graphic is printed and then laminated to protect the vinyl from abrasions and UV rays that can cause the graphics to fade over time. The final phase is installation, where the vinyl is applied to your vehicle

What is the difference between a full and partial wrap?

Anything less than a full wrap is normally called a “partial wrap”. This might be done for cost or design reasons.

How long will the wrap last?

Under normal conditions, the wrap will last between 3-5 years. The life is dependent, however, on many factors. We use Avery Dennison films and laminates which carry the longest manufacturer’s warranty in the industry

Where do you wrap the vehicle?

We wrap vehicles in our warehouse at Vinyl Media, 8/55-57 Randor St, Campbellfield, Victoria.

Will a vehicle wrap damage my paint?

In most cases vehicle wraps will not damage factory paint jobs. Vinyl Media does a thorough study of the vehicle during the consultation phase to identify any potential problem areas. Paint in poor condition or a re-painted vehicle may peel when the vinyl is removed.

Do I need to wash my vehicle before installation?

Yes. All vehicles must be free of dirt, mud, and other agents that may prevent the vinyl from adhering to the vehicle surface. You may incur a cleaning fee if the vehicle is not up reasonably cleaned on the day of installation. Your installer will also do additional prep work to ensure the vehicle is ready for the vehicle wrap.

Do I need to bring my vehicle in for measurements?

We use a software program that has accurate dimensions of most standard production run cars, trucks, and vans that we can use to create a design proof for you. We will need the measurements of the bonnet, boot, (and possibly roof) however. We will also need to inspect the vehicle before production begins.

How long will it take to wrap my vehicle?

Every job is different, depending on the size and complexity of the vehicle. In general, wraps can be done in significantly less time than painting. Often a full wrap applied by two of our Avery Dennison Certified installers on a standard automobile can be done in one day. However, we would advise that you plan to leave the vehicle with us for two days.

If the graphics are damaged, can they be fixed?

Yes. You can normally have the damaged pieces or panels of your wrap replaced after your vehicle is repaired. You would not need to re-do the entire vehicle wrap if the damage is limited to certain areas of the vehicle.

How do I care for my wrap?

Hand washing is the best choice. Try to avoid high pressure washes, but choose touch-free if you must. Use your rear window defroster and not an ice scraper on window graphics as this will damage the print.

How do I justify the cost of a vehicle wrap?

If you are using your wrap as signage, there is no more cost-effective advertising method available! It has been proven that the cost-per-impression of wraps is less than other forms of advertising. If you are using the wrap to improve the appearance of your vehicle, the digitally printed wrap simply cannot be duplicated by more traditional methods like paint or airbrushing.

What is considered when calculating the cost of the wrap?

There are several things that come into consideration: design time, materials used, and installation. The surface complexity of the vehicle is also a factor. A vehicle with compound curves or indentions (like a VW Beetle or PT Cruiser) are more difficult and more expensive to wrap than a box van with flat surfaces.

Can you easily remove the vinyl graphics?

Yes, in most cases, the removal of the vinyl graphics goes fairly quickly. In general, vinyl wraps tend to be harder to remove the longer they remain on the vehicle because the adhesives tend to build up a bond over time. We laminate our graphics and use heat which also makes removal easier.

Can I see through the vinyl on the windows?

You can see through window graphics that are printed on perforated window film, commonly referred to as one-way vision. One-way vision is perforated with small holes that allow you to see out. From inside the vehicle, visibility is similar to regular window tint. From the outside, the graphic is visible. For safety reasons, the front windshield and forward driver and passenger windows should not have vinyl graphics.

Is it normal to have some bubbles or wrinkles?

Yes, on a full wrap it is normal to have an occasional wrinkle or bubble. There are many techniques to reduce imperfections when wrapping, but even the best vinyl wrappers cannot eliminate all wrinkles on concave or rounded surfaces. Normally on flat surfaces there should not be any wrinkles or bubbles.

What are the advantages to a wrap as opposed to cut vinyl or a traditional paint job?

With wraps, the design possibilities are endless. It is extremely difficult (and costly!) to attempt to paint a photograph, but easy to digitally reproduce it. Paint simply cannot duplicate what is possible with digitally printed wraps. Vinyl vehicle wraps are also a great way to protect your original paint underneath. Finally, it is much easier to change your wrap graphics than it is to change your paint job.

Can you wrap primered vehicles?

It is critical to test the surface of a primered vehicle. Some paint-primered surfaces do not have an acceptable bond to wrapping vinyls and need to be sanded or painted prior to installation.

Can you wrap anything other than vehicles?

Yes. We can wrap boats, jet skis, motorcycles, trailers, semis, 4-Wheelers, golf carts, buildings, appliances, children’s toys… the possibilities are endless.