
The short answer is that vehicle wraps typically last approximately 5 years.
Although some vehicle wraps can last longer or shorter depending on how they’re installed (who installs them) and other variables.
FACTORS THAT IMPACT HOW LONG VEHICLE WRAPS LAST
While the average life span of vehicle wrapping is around 5 years, how long your vehicle wraps last is mostly up to you and how you choose to install and maintain them.
Quality of Vehicle Wrap Materials:
Using a high quality vinyl material helps ensure your vehicle wrap lasts for 7+ years while the cheaper stuff may start to show signs of failure after only a couple years.
We here at 1 Hour Signs Niagara use only the best quality vinyl for our vehicle wrap projects.
We currently use two primary types of wrapping material:
- 3M IJ180 with 3M Gloss Lamination (sourced from WRI supply in Toronto)
- Avery 1105 Wrapping film with Avery Gloss Lamination (sourced from ND Graphics in Canada)
For deep edges that require an extra bite, we use 3M 94 primer.
For applications where we can’t use a blade to trim the vinyl, we use 3M knifeless tape.
Vehicle Wrap Installation Quality:
The best vinyl wrap material won’t do much good if it’s installed without fine attention to detail by an experienced installer.
The procedure we use to install your vehicle wrap will make sure you’re getting the most out of your install.
- Thorough clean and prep to ensure the vehicles surface is free of dirt, grease and debris
- Laminate layer added over the print to help protect it from UV rays, scratches and other elements
- To avoid bubbles we use an air release technology
- We then seal the wraps adhesive with heat to “set” the vinyl in place
Learn more about our vehicle wrap installation process here.
Exposure to Elements Affects the Lifespan of Vehicle Wraps
The Niagara Region is a beautiful place to live because we get the best of all 4 seasons, but this also means our vehicles are exposed to the full gambit of environmental factors like sun, road salt, hail, freezing rain and snow scrapers.
These weather elements can result in quicker wear of your vehicle wrap which is why doing things like storing your vehicle in a garage when not in use can help increase the life of your wrap.
Vehicle Wrap Color/Finish
Matte, chrome or textured vehicle wrap finishes may degrade faster than gloss finishes and black tends to attract more UV rays, which could accelerate the degradation of vehicle wraps.
HOW YOU CAN MAXIMIZE THE LIFESPAN OF YOUR VEHICLE WRAP
As we’ve discussed above, how long your vehicle wrap can last depends on you and some of the things you can do to maximize its life span include:
- Regular cleaningusing soft cloths (avoiding harsh chemicals or pressure washers)
- Parking your vehicle in the shadeas often as possible (e.g. in a garage)
- Addressing any damage promptly so it doesn’t become a larger problem (e.g. lifting of vinyl)
If you have any questions about how best to maintain the vehicle wrap we have installed for you please reach out any time and we’ll be happy to offer more tips and suggestions based on your situation.
SIGNS IT’S TIME TO REPLACE YOUR VEHICLE WRAP
Not sure if your vehicle wrap is looking it’s best? Worried it’s failing too soon?
Keep an eye out for 3 telltale signs that it may be time to have your vehicle wrap inspected and potentially re-installed:
- Fading or discoloration
- Peeling or lifting edges
- Cracking or bubbling