Sanding a vehicle is necassary in some instances of customisation, but does the same ring true for wrapping? Or can a vehicle wrap cover any sort of surface regardless of its state?
In this blog, we will answer the question ‘Do you have to sand a car before wrapping it?’
The UK automotive aftermarket industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.
That’s why we at Car Specialist Customs are here to provide you with all the information you require to get the best car customisation possible, whilst being as informed as possible.
Can you wrap any vehicle?
While it’s generally possible to apply a vehicle wrap to most vehicles, there are certain factors that can influence the suitability and outcome of the process. However, when it comes to a type of vehicle, a vehicle wrap can generally be applied to any vehicle. Possible exceptions would be leased vehicles or government operated vehicles such as a police car or ambulance etc.
Factors Affecting Vehicle Wrap Applicability
- Vehicle Surface Condition: The vehicle’s surface should be clean, smooth, and free from major imperfections like dents or scratches. Any significant damage could affect the adhesion of the wrap and its overall appearance.
- Vehicle Material: Most modern vehicles have surfaces suitable for wrapping, but older vehicles or those with unique materials (like fiberglass or carbon fiber) might require special considerations.
- Wrap Type: The type of wrap you choose can also impact applicability. Some wraps are more forgiving of surface imperfections than others.
- Installer Expertise: A skilled installer can overcome many challenges and achieve excellent results, even on difficult vehicles.
Potential Challenges
- Complex Curves: Vehicles with intricate curves or sharp edges can be more challenging to wrap. It requires expertise to ensure a seamless finish.
- Vehicle Age: Older vehicles might have weathered paint or oxidation, which can affect the wrap’s adhesion. Proper preparation is crucial in these cases.
- Custom Parts: Vehicles with aftermarket parts or custom body kits might require additional care during the wrapping process.
Do you have to sand a car before wrapping it?
The short answer is: generally, no. Sanding a car before wrapping it is not a standard practice and, in most cases, is unnecessary. However, there are specific circumstances where it might be considered.
Why Sanding is Typically Unnecessary
- Adhesion: Modern vinyl wraps are designed to adhere strongly to factory paint finishes. The adhesive used in high-quality vinyl films is specifically formulated to create a durable bond with automotive surfaces.
- Surface Preparation: Proper cleaning and degreasing of the car’s surface is the key to ensuring optimal adhesion.Removing contaminants like wax, grease, and dirt is crucial.
- Risk of Damage: Sanding can introduce imperfections into the paintwork, which may become more visible under the wrap. Any scratches or blemishes will be accentuated.
When Sanding Might Be Considered
There are specific scenarios where sanding could be beneficial, but these are exceptions rather than the rule:
- Severe Paint Imperfections: If the car has significant scratches, dents, or orange peel, sanding might be necessary to create a smoother surface for the wrap. However, in most cases, it’s often more practical to address these issues before wrapping.
- Primer or Bare Metal: If you’re wrapping a car that has been primed or is bare metal, sanding is essential to create a suitable surface for the adhesive to bond to.
- Specific Wrap Types: Some high-performance wraps or those with intricate designs might require a smoother surface for optimal results.
Although not all installers may offer or have the equipment on hand to sand your vehicle, if required, this may add a further cost to your installation service. Please keep this in mind if your vehicle does need sanding.
The Importance of Proper Preparation
Regardless of whether you sand or not, meticulous preparation is essential for a successful wrap. This includes:
- Washing: Thoroughly cleaning the car to remove dirt, grime, and debris.
- Degreasing: Using a specialised degreaser to remove wax, oils, and other contaminants.
- Inspection: Carefully examining the paintwork for any imperfections that might affect the wrap’s appearance.
- Masking: Protecting areas like rubber seals, lights, and badges from the adhesive.
While sanding a car before wrapping it is possible, it’s generally not recommended. In most cases, proper cleaning and preparation are sufficient to achieve excellent results. If you’re unsure about the condition of your car’s paint or the specific requirements of the wrap you’re considering, consulting with a professional installer is always advisable.
By following these guidelines and working with experienced professionals, you can ensure that your vehicle wrap looks fantastic and lasts for years to come.
Professional vehicle wrapping
The best way to apply a vehicle wrap is through a professional, as their expertise, equipment, and experience will secure a perfect and professional placement quickly.
If you want a quality vehicle wrap to be applied professionally, it is worth visiting a reputable installer such as Car Specialist Customs. There are many benefits gained from getting a professional installation from a service like ours. This includes…
- Pricing is relevant to the size and shape of the car.
- Professional installation ensures complete coverage, or to specification.
- Use of the right equipment and type of wrap, ensuring a lasting, top-quality paint protection film.
- Answers to any queries, including maintenance/dos and don’ts.
- A quick installation (depending on the vehicle size and customisations).
- Installation takes place in a clean indoor space, which is the optimum environment for PPF installation.
- You have a point of reference to return to should any issues arise.
Get your vehicle wrapped today
Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Tints:
Wrapping and PPF:
- Paint Protection Film — PPF
- Exo Shield Window Tint
- Black Packs
- Dechroming
- Custom Decals
- Commercial Wrapping
- Vehicle Wrapping
Interior customisation/ technology:
- Starlights
- Apple Play/ Android Autos
- Android Screen Upgrades
- Parking Sensors
- Reverse Cameras
- Rear Seat Entertainment
Wheel refurbishment:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We will always go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we hope the details we shared have helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.
In this blog, we aimed to have provided insight by answering the question ‘Do you have to sand a car before wrapping it?’. Whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.
Want to get in touch? You can find us right here:
WORKSHOP:
Unit 30
Caldershaw Centre
Ings Ln
Rochdale
OL12 7LQ
OPENING TIMES:
Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM—7 PM
Thursday – Closed
Friday to Sunday – 11 AM—7 PM
TELEPHONE:
07523 971347 (Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm)
EMAIL:
info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk