WELLINGTON COUNTY – When it comes to customizing a vehicle, two popular options are vehicle wrapping and painting.
Both methods can dramatically alter a car’s appearance, but they have distinct differences in terms of cost, durability, process and benefits.
For car owners looking to give their vehicles a fresh look, it’s important to understand the differences between these approaches to make the best decision.
Cost
“A high-quality paint job can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more,” said Jake Drexler, co-owner of Toykio Wraps, located between Mapleton and Minto, just outside Listowel.
“Depending on the type of paint, prep work and level of customization, a cheap paint job may cost as little as $1,000, but it often lacks durability.”
Drexler says a full wrap typically costs anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000.
“Wraps are generally cheaper because they don’t require extensive prep work, multiple coats, or drying time like paint does,” said Drexler.
“High-end paint jobs require sanding, priming, multiple layers and curing, which increases labour and material costs. Vinyl wrapping also does not require as much equipment to install.”
Process and time
The first step in wrapping a vehicle is to clean the car thoroughly, to ensure no dirt or debris remain.
“All painted surfaces are thoroughly cleaned before installing the vinyl film with an isopropyl alcohol mixture to ensure the vinyl adheres to a clean surface,” said Drexler.
The vehicle is then taken apart (if full coverage is needed) this includes badges and emblems, trim and molding, door handles, mirrors, bumpers, headlights and taillights as well as weather stripping and seals.
“Certain parts of the vehicle need to be removed or loosened to ensure a seamless and professional finish. This step helps eliminate visible seams, prevents peeling, and allows the wrap to fully adhere to the surface,” Drexler told the Advertiser.
The vinyl is then cut to fit the desired size and shape of the panel using a special adhesive and a variety of smoothing tools. Once installed the vinyl is heated to the proper temperature, allowing the glue underneath to cure.
The process of painting starts similarly but differs quite a bit.
First the vehicle is taken apart to meet maximum paint coverage, this includes all of the fixtures removed as listed above. The vehicle is then sanded down to remove the old paint and any imperfections.
A primer is then applied, followed by multiple coats of paint and left to dry and cure, a process Drexler says can take “many days”.
After the paint has dried and cured a clear coat is applied for protection and shine and the vehicle is polished and detailed.
“A full wrap typically takes two to seven days, depending on the complexity of the design, coverage and vehicle size,” said Drexler.
“A professional paint job can take one to three weeks, depending on the number of layers, drying time, and curing process.”
Durability
“When comparing durability, paint and vinyl wrap each have their strengths, but overall, paint tends to be more durable in the long term,” said Drexler.
Long-lasting and high-quality paint (such as OEM or professional-grade) can last 10 or more years if properly maintained. Paint resists fading from UV exposure, although it can still fade over time with prolonged sun exposure.
In terms of scratches and chips, paint is prone to damage from road debris, rock chips and scratches and may need touch ups.
On the other hand, Drexler says vinyl wraps can last from five to seven years with proper care.
Vinyl wraps provide protection against UV rays and can resist minor abrasions better than paint, however the wrap may fade over time.
Wraps are also more susceptible to damage and can tear or lift at the edges if exposed to harsh conditions or improper cleaning.
“While paint lasts longer, vinyl wraps offer better protection for the underlying paint, making them more durable against minor scratches and fading. However, for long-term durability, especially in extreme conditions, paint is generally more reliable,” said Drexler.
Maintenance
In terms of regular maintenance, painted vehicles require regular washing, waxing and polishing to maintain their shine and prevent fading.
Vinyl wrapped cars require a little more of a specialized upkeep routine.
When washing Drexler says it’s important to hand wash with mild, non-abrasive shampoo and a soft sponge or microfibre cloth.
Avoid automatic car washes with brushes and high-pressure washing directly on edges or seams.
If parking outdoors, it is recommended to use a car cover to protect from UV rays and in the case of bird droppings, tree sap or bug splatters, Drexler says it is important to immediately clean the affected area with isopropyl alcohol or a vinyl-safe cleaner to avoid staining or etching.
“These steps will help preserve the wrap for five to seven years while maintaining its appearance and durability,” he said.
Customization
“Wraps offer more customization because they come in a variety of colors, textures (matte, satin, gloss, chrome, carbon fiber, etc.), and can include complex designs or graphics,” said Drexler.
“The only limit to your design would be your imagination; your ideas are the limit.”
Drexler also says that paint is more limited and requires airbrushing or hand-painting for detailed designs, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
“Finding a good quality paint shop to do this type of work is hard to come by these days,” said Drexler.
Resale value
“Having a vehicle vinyl wrapped can positively impact resale value, especially if the wrap has been properly installed and maintained.
“Since wraps act as a protective layer, they help preserve the original paint, which is a key factor in a vehicle’s resale value,” Drexler told the Community News.
Drexler says a custom paint job may reduce resale value since it may not appeal to all buyers. He also noted that a properly installed and removed wrap does not damage the paint, as long as the paint was in good condition before the wrap was applied.
Ultimately, the choice between wrapping and painting your vehicle depends on your specific needs, budget and preferences.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, temporary solution with the ability to change your car’s look easily, vehicle wrapping may be the better option.
However, if you’re seeking a permanent, long-lasting change that requires less maintenance, painting may be your go-to choice.
