On Calgary roads, you will find many vehicles with car wraps on the surface. It provides a protective coating for the car and makes it look good, too. However, not all people using a car wrap Calgary get the same experience or output. On average, a car wrap lasts for 5-7 years. At least, that’s what most shops advertise.
In reality, a section of car owners finds edge lifting, bubbling, or peeling within the first year or two. The warranty still exists on paper!
Why is surface preparation a must for a successful car wrap Calgary?
Vinyl wrap doesn’t stick to dirt, wax, grease, or damaged paint. The car surface needs to be clean, smooth, and non-sticky. The preparation is very important here. Steps such as decontamination and surface cleaning are necessary. That may add to your bill, but do not overlook these steps.
There should not be leftover wax or ceramic coating on the car’s paint. Check the panel edges for any damage, rust, or other issues. The harsh sunlight and temperature changes will quickly affect the weak spots.
The climate issues affect the car wrap
Calgary is known for its erratic weather patterns. In some months, the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures can be pretty high. Vinyl expands and contracts with temperature changes. If you park underground, your car undergoes significant temperature changes in some months of the year. The UV ray intensity can be too strong for a wrap that wasn’t properly installed.
The paint damage issues that remain unnoticed
If your car paint has scratches, chips, or oxidation underneath the wrap, these problems will still be present. Moisture can get trapped between the film and the damaged paint surface. What began as a small paint chip becomes a bubble under the film coat. So, paint correction before wrapping is more than just aesthetics. It helps create a surface that the adhesive can actually hold to, for a long time.
Why do warranty benefits not apply?
Most wrap warranties cover manufacturer defects in the vinyl film itself. They will not be useful if the surface preparation is improper. They do not cover existing paint damage underneath or that caused by automatic car washes or pressure washing.
So, when you see the wrap peeling off after 18 months or earlier, the brand points to any of these issues.
Things to analyze before booking a car wrap service
Before you go for a car wrap service in Calgary, ask these questions:
- Will you include paint correction before installation?
- What vinyl brand and grade will be used?
- How do you prepare the panel edges and door jambs?
- What are the warranty terms and exclusions?
A professional company offering premium Calgary car detailing services will not try to avoid such questions.
Summing it up
You will get decent performance from a car wrap in Calgary when the preparation is proper. Making the car surface ready for the job is a must, and you should hire a professional service provider. Even after installation is complete, proper maintenance and cleanup will be necessary.
