Vehicles with standard paint jobs are common, but many people want something that makes their car stand out. If you want a unique car, compare the options of a car wrap vs. paint.
Theauto painting experts in Tucsonat Cutting Edge Collision Center offer cosmetic vehicle upgrades, including paint jobs, car wraps, and everything in between. Call 520-339-6901 to schedule an appointment today.
Car Wrap
Car wraps (also known as vinyl vehicle wraps) are decals that cover a car’s natural paint. Auto experts use heat treatments to seal these wraps to the car body. They’re temporary and come off cleanly when the time comes.
Wraps are popular because they come in a wide variety of textures, colors, and designs. For example, high-quality wraps include gradients, matte finishes, and other designs. You can also choose to wrap your entire vehicle or just a few panels.
Full car wraps cost between $2,500 and $5,000, but partial wraps may be cheaper. It also costs about $500 to remove the wrap.
Wrap jobs only take a few days to apply, and they can last between two and ten years. You need to keep the vehicle clean, but you won’t have to wax it.
Unfortunately, wraps don’t work as well on damaged vehicles. Any dents or dings can ruin the application process. Therefore, you may need to spend money on vehicle repairs before you invest in a wrap. These outer layers can also rip and fade over time.
Car Paint
If you’re looking for a more permanent option, you can choose a paint job instead. Properly applied car paint can last a lifetime as long as it’s well-maintained.
However, painting takes much longer than wrapping. This is because the vehicle requires cleaning, degreasing, and sanding. When you factor in the necessary time for painting and curing, the process often takes a week or more.
Car wraps and paint jobs have similar pricing on the upper end. Amateur paint jobs with cheap materials cost around $500, while high-quality paint and labor costs might run $5,000 or more.
As a downside, there’s not as much customization for paint jobs. You are usually limited to one or two colors. If you change their mind, you’ll have to repeat the whole process to repaint the vehicle.
You may need torestore car paintafter UV damage, road salt, and poor maintenance, which can also shorten the paint’s lifespan. Although vehicular paint is hardier than wraps, it can still chip and fade.
Car Wrap vs. Paint Job
As you make your decision between car wraps and paint, consider the long-term results of each process.
Paint jobs are the best permanent solution. If you invest the necessary time, money, and effort, a high-quality paint job can last a lifetime.
On the other hand, wraps are better for stylistic expression or business promotions. They’re popular options because they’re not a permanent commitment.
Get Your Vehicle Recolored Today
Whether you’re looking for a vinyl wrap,paint used on alloy wheels, or dent removal, Cutting Edge Collision Center can help. Call 520-339-6901 to get your vehicle wrapped or painted today.
FAQs
Cost is a likely factor in a wrapping vs painting decision: is it cheaper to wrap or paint a car? Paint jobs run from $500 (low quality) or anywhere between $1,000-$5,000 (high-quality). A professional wrap runs between $2,500 to $5,000. There is also a labor cost to remove the wrap that may range between $500-$600.
Is it cheaper to get your car wrapped or painted? ›
A paint job is typically cheaper than a car wrap. Price is only one factor you should consider when deciding which one is right for your vehicle. There are a number of benefits to getting a car wrap rather than a paint job, including: Removable.
What is the downside of wrapping a car? ›
The vinyl wears away over time, as the glue hardens. There are also lots of strict rules surrounding the upkeep. Vinyl wrapped cars cannot spend too long in the sun. Any pollutants or contaminants, such as bird droppings, tree sap or mud needs to be cleared off immediately.
What lasts longer car wrap or paint? ›
In general, the average car wrap lasts around five years before requiring light maintenance or replacing, whereas a paint job can last between ten to fifteen years, in theory.
Can a car wrap look as good as paint? ›
Yes, a car wrap can be made to look very similar to paint. Generally, glossy wraps look more like polished paintwork. However, the quality of the wrap and the expertise of the installer determine whether your wrap will have a paint-like appearance or not.
How to wash a wrapped car? ›
Using soft sponge or non abrasive cloth, hand wash wrapped vehicle with car wash solution. Rinse soapy water off with water and dry using synthetic shammy or low microfiber fabric. Gentle wiping of sensitive areas such as door handles, moldings, mirrors and seams is highly recommended.
Does wrapping a car devalue it? ›
When a car is wrapped, the resale value is considerably greater than for a car that has been repainted. This is primarily because the wrapper can be removed without damaging the car. Since the wrap preserved the paint, the value of your car is higher because it still looks new.
What is the life expectancy of a car wrap? ›
Under normal conditions, the average lifespan of a vehicle wrap is about five years. Another factor that can impact wrap lifespan is the installation process. A wrap that's not properly installed can quickly start showing signs of wear, conditions like peeling or getting dirty under the wrap.
Do car wraps scratch easily? ›
Made from premium materials, they're designed to withstand everyday driving challenges while preserving their aesthetic appeal. A car wrap, when cared for correctly, can remain vibrant and scratch-free for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for vehicle owners.
What is the hardest part of wrapping a car? ›
What is the hardest part to vinyl wrap on a car? The little parts over the body, like the bumper, side view mirrors, handles, and so on are the harder parts for vinyl application.
A vinyl car wrap can save you quite a bit of money, and still look good. Compared to the quality you would get from a cheaper, “budget” paint job, going with vinyl is a no brainer.
What color vinyl wrap lasts the longest? ›
The most long-lasting color of the vinyl wrap is white. It is the safest bet. Other colors may last as well if the vinyl is of premium quality.
How to tell if a car is wrapped or painted? ›
The main difference between a wrap vs paint is that paint is permanent and a vinyl wrap is removable.
What color car wrap is best? ›
If you want to appear classic, sophisticated, and in control, black is the color for you. White: White works for those wanting to appear young, fresh, and economical. It is a neutral color, so also works well as a secondary accent. Gray: Gray is the perfect middle ground between black and white.
Do you have to sand a car before wrapping it? ›
Flaws also work against complete adhesion of the wrap to the car. That means it's likely that much of the work necessary prior to a paint job (sanding, filling, rust removal) would need to be done before wrapping a vehicle as well.
Can you wrap a car with bad paint? ›
Anything that is under the wrap will show through so if you don't want to scratch or dent to show through, you need to get it repaired and painted before wrapping. Regarding inferior paint, either when the paint has become chalky, or the clear coat has started to separate it is near impossible to wrap these areas.
How long does a car wrap last? ›
Under normal conditions, the average lifespan of a vehicle wrap is about five years. Another factor that can impact wrap lifespan is the installation process. A wrap that's not properly installed can quickly start showing signs of wear, conditions like peeling or getting dirty under the wrap.
Do car wraps damage paint? ›
That's the beauty of a car wrap. Although they've been around for quite some time, many vehicle owners often ask us, does a car wrap damage paint? The truth is that a vinyl wrap or car wrap as some call it, is completely safe to be applied to any type of paint – whether it's gloss or a matte finish.
How long do car wraps last in Michigan? ›
How long do car wraps last in Michigan? Generally, a car wrap lasts anywhere from 5 to 7 years. It depends on the quality of the wrap as well as how well you take care of it.
