If you want to safeguard your vehicle from scratches and minor accidents, vehicle wrapping could be a great solution. However, before you embark on this process, it’s crucial to understand the different types of vehicle wraps available.
The wrapping process can take a few hours to several days or weeks, depending on the design you choose and your vehicle’s model and brand.
In this article, I will explain how you can wrap your vehicle and share the information you need to know about the wrapping process.
How Long Does It Take to Wrap a Car?
Before wrapping your car, one important question that owners often ask is how long the process will take.
Custom wrapping your car can be time-consuming, depending on various factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle and the type of design you want. For instance, a single-colored plan will take less time than a two or multi-colored wrap.
Additionally, the car wrapping company you choose can also impact the duration of the process. Companies may use other tools and procedures, resulting in varying wrapping times. Therefore, selecting a reputable company that can provide a clear timeline for your car wrapping project is essential.
Three Steps to Wrap a Vehicle
1. The Design Process
Before beginning any preparation or wrapping work on your vehicle, it is crucial to collaborate with the art department of your chosen wrap company to create a custom design. Many design software options exist, and the wrap company can upload your vehicle model to aid in discussing and understanding where graphics will be placed and why.
Budget, practical design guidelines, and preferences will be negotiated between you and your vehicle graphics company to produce an attractive wrap that fits your financial plan.
The duration of the wrap design process depends on the number of colors required. A one or two-color wrap may take 1-2 hours, while a more complex and personalized design could take several hours.
2. Preparing the Vehicle for Wrapping
Once you have finalized the design for your vehicle wrap, the next step is to prepare your vehicle for the vinyl wrap. The preparation process involves a two-step cleaning process, which includes an initial cleaning by the vehicle owner and a secondary cleaning by the wrap company.
To begin the preparation process, you must give your vehicle a thorough hand wash, including all car parts, such as the wheels, and cover essential parts to remove all dirt, grime, and road debris. Depending on your vehicle size and work ethic, this step may take between half an hour to two hours.
After washing, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is completely dry before proceeding to the next step, which may take a few more hours, depending on the time of the year. To ensure that your vehicle is dry, it is recommended that you wash it a day before your wrap time.
Once you have given your vehicle an initial cleaning, the wrap company will perform a secondary cleaning using alcohol and other agents to ensure your car is fully prepared for the wrap. Depending on the size of your vehicle, this step may take anywhere from half an hour to three hours for the wrap company to complete. You may be charged extra for prep work if you do not wash your vehicle before dropping it off.
3. How Long do Different Wraps Take to Apply
Vehicle wraps are essentially large vinyl stickers that require skilled application with heat, plastic razors, and precision.
The size and complexity of the wrap and the make and model of the vehicle are crucial factors that determine how much time the installation process will take.
Your Vehicle and Time to Wrap
1. Partial Wraps and Lettering
Regarding vehicle wraps, partial wraps are quicker and more straightforward because they only cover a small area, such as the hood, or have customized lettering. An experienced wrap company can finish it off quickly.
It may take around 30 minutes to 2 hours for partial wraps and lettering. However, if you have longer lettering and graphics, it can extend the project’s duration.
2. Half Wrap
Half wraps require more time and effort compared to partial wraps and lettering. However, an experienced wrap company can still complete the job in two to four hours. Half wraps involve covering one or four sections of the vehicle.
3. Full Wraps
Applying a full wrap requires more expertise and effort to ensure a flawless finish. The time taken for a full wrap to be completed depends on the size and model of your vehicle. A full wrap can typically take one to two days at the installation shop. When you drop off your car, you can request an estimated completion time for your full wrap from the installer.
Time for Full Wrap vs. Custom Paint Job
Compared to a vehicle wrap, a custom paint job takes longer to complete because every paint detail must be meticulously laid out and applied by hand before it can dry. An average custom paint job can typically take days or even weeks to complete. Moreover, if a custom paint job has more colors, the duration can take at least a week.
In contrast, wraps offer more customization options and details at a better price point. Additionally, the vehicle does not have to stay in the shop for an extended period.
Figuring Out How Long a Wrap Takes
To get your vehicle wrapped, it is essential to understand that the process involves designing the wrap, prepping the car, and applying the graphics. Although several steps are involved, the entire process can be completed within a few hours or at least one week. Partial wraps usually take a couple of hours, while full wraps may take up to two days to apply.
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