Carwrap and damaged paint: risks and solutions

Introduction

In this article, you will read why the surface is so decisive for the quality, durability and appearance of a car wrap and how carwrap and damaged paint can bring risks.

A car wrap gives vehicles a fresh appearance, offers protection and makes it possible to apply eye-catching designs or company branding. However, the importance of the condition of the underlying surface for the final result is often underestimated. After all, a wrap can only perform optimally if the base on which it is applied is in good condition.

Summary of this article

• A clean, grease-free, and smooth surface is essential for optimal adhesion.
  
• Damaged or uneven paint can lead to peeling film or paint damage.
  
• Inspection and repair of the surface improve the result and lifespan.
  
• Proper preparation prevents air bubbles and visible irregularities.
  
• Even a less-than-perfect surface can still provide years of enjoyment from a wrap and in many cases can still be removed without causing damage.
  

The Importance of a Clean and Smooth Surface

For a perfect car wrap, a clean, grease-free and smooth surface is essential. Dirt, dust, grease and residues from for example old stickers can prevent the film from adhering properly and leaves visible marks through the film. This can lead to air bubbles, lifting edges or even the wrap coming off over time. That’s why the vehicle is always thoroughly cleaned and degreased before wrapping. Even small imperfections, such as stone chips or scratches, can affect the final result: these will show through the film and can shorten the lifespan of the wrap.

Influence of Carwrap and damaged paint

The condition of the paint is an important factor in wrapping. A wrap adheres best to original, undamaged factory paint. Damages such as rust, deep scratches, blisters, or poorly repaired spots are weak points where the film will not adhere well. In some cases, removing the wrap can even cause paint damage, especially if the surface was already suboptimal. It is therefore recommended to have damages professionally repaired before applying the wrap.

Preparation: Inspection and Repair

A thorough inspection beforehand is standard in professional wrapping. The vehicle is checked for damage, old glue residues, rust spots and other imperfections. If necessary, these areas need to be repaired or touched up. This creates an optimal base for the wrap, which benefits not only the appearance but also the lifespan and adhesion of the film. Sign District pays a lot of attention to this preparatory phase to prevent disappointment afterwards. Surfaces with imperfections can still be wrapped, wrap can even be a great mid to long term solution to sub-optimal cars since a whole respray is often more expensive.

Result and Maintenance

A wrap applied to a good surface looks tighter, lasts longer and is more resistant to weather and daily use. The maintenance of the wrap is easier, and the risk of peeling film or visible damage is minimal. By investing in good preparation and repairing the surface, you get the most out of your car wrap and keep your vehicle looking representative.

In short:

The quality of a car wrap stands or falls with the condition of the surface. Only on a clean, smooth and undamaged base can a wrap and its installer achieve perfection. Even a less-than-perfect surface can still provide years of enjoyment from a wrap and in many cases can still be removed without causing damage. However, Sign District puts information and honesty first, so that customers always know exactly what to expect. Are you considering a car wrap or want to know if your vehicle is suitable for wrapping? Feel free to contact Sign District for an inspection, advice, and an honest assessment of the possibilities.

Sources

1. 3M Nederland – Car Wrap Ondergrond

2. Avery Dennison – Surface Preparation for Wrapping

3. FESPA – Importance of Substrate in Wrapping

4. Hexis Graphics – Preparing the Car for Wrapping

5. Signcraft Magazine – Surface Prep for Vehicle Wraps

6. Premiumvinyls – Ondergrond auto wrappen

7. Foliewereld – Voorbereiding carwrap

8. Bensign – Belang van ondergrond bij wrappen

9. Wrap Institute – Surface Preparation

10. NLsigning – Carwrapping en ondergrond