We get a lot of questions about carwraps. First we'll talk about the process from start to finish, followed by some general Q & A that we hope will fill you in on the subject.
Design – The design phase begins with a look at your vehicle to take pictures and measurements so we can create a well thought out design template to make a strong visual impact. You can either provide ready artwork or the inhouse can create the artwork for you.After the design elements have been gathered, the wrap must be properly sized to fit the vehicle using the templates, photos, logos, and measurements.
Proofing - Once the design is ready, the inhouse will provide a printed proof of what the vehicle wrap will look like. You will have the opportunity to look the proof over carefully to locate any mistakes and submit any changes before we create the finished wrap.
Printing – The artwork is then printed onto cast vinyl sheets using a high-resolution Roland 6 Color Solvent based printer. It's then laminated with a clear, glossy overlaminate to add a layer of protection to your digital print.
Installation – Lastly and maybe most importantly the vehicle needs to be properly cleaned and preped so the wrap can be installed correctly. You should have the vehicle washed the day before the scheduled install then parked indoors over night. The inhouse installers will carefully install the graphics to the surface of the vehicle.
Can unpainted vehicle surfaces, like plastic parts and fiberglass bumpers, be wrapped?
Unpainted vehicle surfaces can be wrapped; however, it is not recommended. Vinyl adhesives do not stick very well to unpainted surfaces, so there is always a chance that the wrap will fail.
How should I prep my vehicle for a wrap?
It is very important that your vehicle be thoroughly washed prior to installation so that the vehicle is free of road grime and dirt. Your vehicle must not be waxed. Wax creates adhesion problems, and therefore, vehicle wraps are more likely to fail.
Prior to installation of graphics on your vehicle at the inhouse, we will prep it to remove any oil residue or contaminants. We then perform a vehicle inspection and take note of places that have any kind of surface damage like paint scratches, dents, rust, etc. This inspection serves as a guideline to ensure that our clients know about any surface problems on the vehicle.
Do wraps damage paint?
No. We apply only quality materials from the best manufacturers, like 3M. If the paint is in good condition, it is our experience that wraps are completely harmless to vehicle paint. However, if paint is in poor condition, then the wrap can fail and may remove paint when graphics are removed.
How is the wrap installed?
The inhouse performs all installations following the industry’s highest standards and procedures established by 3M. During the installation process, the material is heated and applied so that it takes the shape of the vehicle body and achieves a paint-like finish. After the wrap is completed, post heat and pressure is used to ensure proper adhesion.
How can I maintain my wrap?
After installation, we advise not washing the vehicle for at least 3-4 days. When washing your vehicle, always use a brushless carwash or hand wash. Never use high-pressure hoses or caustic chemicals as these can void your warranty and cause failure of your wrap. Please do not use your normal car wax. Ask about our polishing wax made specifically for our digitally printed cast vinyl.
Can my graphics be removed?
Yes. Just as we recommend professional installation, professional removal is also recommended. If using quality vinyl such as 3M, graphic removal is relatively easy. In most cases, all it takes is a gentle application of heat to soften the adhesive, and the graphics can be pulled from the surface. Any remaining adhesive on the surface is cleaned up using regular citrus-based cleaners.
If you have additional questions, please contact us at info@theinhouse.com or give us a call 770.321.0557
