How do you distinguish between a low-quality garment and a high-quality one? Why do people prefer some brands over others? Yes, you probably know the answer already- it’s the finish! When it comes to vehicle car wraps, too, the finish makes all the difference.
Vehicle car wraps are not only about changing the colour of your car. They come in different finishes such as matte, gloss, and satin. These finishes can change the look and feel of a vehicle dramatically.
If vehicle car wraps are something new for you, then this blog is just what you need to understand this concept. Let’s explore this topic and compare matte, gloss, and satin wraps in detail.
What are Vehicle Car Wraps?
Vehicle car wraps are thin adhesive vinyl films applied to the exterior of the car. They can be a complete body wrap or a partial one. They are meant to change the visual and tactile appearance of the vehicle. Car wraps are used to change the vehicle’s colour, add custom graphics, or protect the original paint. They are not permanent and can be removed if you change your mind. Removal of the car wrap will not damage the underlying paint.
Car wraps allow customisation, paint protection, reversibility, and versatility of the vehicle’s exterior. They are beneficial for car branding, aesthetic customisation, and paint protection.
Vehicle car wraps come in various finishes that alter their surface quality and reflectivity. They are matte, gloss, satin, chrome, textured, metallic, and iridescent. In this blog, we will dive deeper into matte, gloss, and satin finishes.
Gloss Wraps
Gloss vehicle car wraps are self-adhesive vinyl films that mimic a factory paint job. They are highly reflective and provide high shine. They come in a myriad of colours and are best if you fancy a total colour revamp of your car. You can choose from a wide palette of colours. Your car will look brand new with a new colour, and you can enjoy the envious glances of your neighbours!
Gloss car wraps also offer clean finishes that mimic a factory paint job. Even a trained eye will find it challenging to distinguish a gloss wrap from factory paint. They are easy to maintain and clean. A simple hand wash will suffice to keep the exterior clean.
These wraps are also widely available and are pretty popular. One reason could be the affordability factor. They are economical and can last for years with a one-time investment.
The drawback of gloss wraps is that light scratches, swirl marks and fingerprints are easily visible on the clean finish of the wrap. Cars with wraps cannot be cleaned at a regular car wash because it can damage the wrap. Automated washes can also damage the vehicle wrap. Car washes use brushes and high-pressure jets that can be detrimental to the wrap. They are a good option for those who want to try a new traditional look. They are not for those who want a statement appearance. Gloss wraps will also work for car branding. They can offer a bold, attention-grabbing detail to a fleet of cars for businesses.
Matte Wraps
If you like to be the centre of attention, then matte car wrap is for you. Matte car wraps will have everyone stop in their tracks and stare at your ride. They are not very commonly seen. They are flat and non-reflective. The matte car wrap is unique in its ability to absorb light. They are usually used on high-end custom-built vehicles and for stealth aesthetics.
They offer the vehicle a unique and modern appearance. They stand out in a fleet of cars with the usual factory paint. They do not reflect light, reducing glare and giving the vehicle a rich yet subdued look. They exude exclusivity and elegance. They are better at hiding imperfections such as light scratches, dents and smudges.
The drawback of matte vehicle car wraps is that they can be harder to clean. Oil stains, dust, dry rub marks and handprints show on matte surfaces. Cleaning them needs specific products. Wax and polishes cannot be used on matte wraps. Without proper maintenance and careful cleaning, they can discolour and fade over time. When compared to gloss wraps, the colour palette options available can be limited.
They are best for car enthusiasts who prefer a distinctive, sleek look. They are the preferred choice of luxury vehicle owners who seek a unique, understated appearance.
Satin Wraps
They are vehicle car wraps that are a blend of gloss and matte wrap. They offer a smooth, semi-matte finish that gives the vehicle a soft sheen that is less reflective than a gloss finish and less flat than a matte one. They are popular because of the way they highlight a car’s contours without too much gloss or the dullness of a matte finish.
The aesthetic appeal of satin car wraps is balanced. They strike a balance between the pros and cons of the gloss and matte car wraps. They are not as flashy as the gloss wrap and more forgiving than the matte one. They reflect light softly and enhance the depth of the colour without causing glare. They are also easier to clean than the matte car wrap.
They may not be bold enough for people who like a bold finish. They strike a balance between being bold and quiet that is just right. They are not available in as many colours as the gloss wraps.
They are best recommended to car owners who want something sleek without being flashy. They are ideal for business car branding that needs a professional and modern look.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Finish
Now that the perks and pitfalls of all three vehicle car wraps have been explained, you can make an informed decision. If you are still pondering how to make the call, here is a list of questions that can guide you:
Personal Style
What kind of look are you going for? Bold? Subtle? Or balanced? It is better to be clear about the outcome you expect to help decide on the finish of the car wrap.
Maintenance Habits
How do you maintain your vehicle? How often do you clean it? Each finish has a different maintenance regime, and you need to see if it suits you.
Type of Vehicle
What type of vehicle do you want to get wrapped? The finish you like should align with the type of vehicle that is to be wrapped.
Climate/ Location
What is the general climate of your area? The reflectivity of different wraps is different. Dark matte wraps can get hotter, and gloss will reflect more light.
Purpose
What is the purpose of the vehicle car wrap? Is it to boost a business? Or is it for a new look? Or is it for a show car? Different finishes can accomplish whichever purpose you have in mind.
Final Draw
This blog has explored three main types of finishes of car wraps. Each offers a unique finish and appeals to different kinds of people. They also each serve various purposes. They each have their pros and cons. If you haven’t seen the car wrap finishes in person, visit a car detailing place near you and see for yourself. If you are in Toronto, visit Colibri Car Wrap and Detailing to see the best results of car wrapping.
