Vehicle Wraps vs. Paint Jobs: Which Is Better?

When it comes to customizing the look of your vehicle, the decision often boils down to two popular options: car wrap and paintwork. Both have their unique benefits and can suit people’s needs and wants on what their vehicle will look like. If you are thinking about changing the appearance of your car, it is important to know the key difference between vehicle wraps and paint. Below is a breakdown of the key differences that will assist you in deciding which option is the best for you.

Cost

Cost is one of the key differentiators when it comes to deciding on using car wraps or painting the car. On most occasions, vehicle wraps are cheaper than a high-quality paint job, even though both offer the same quality of work. It is often cheaper to have basic car wrap than a premium paint job which is time-consuming and sometimes involves painting over another layer of paint. Though it may not be cheap to hire someone to paint your car, vehicle wraps can be a way to give your vehicle a new look at a relatively low cost. However, if you need a perfect custom job that requires finer details, then the price will be considerably higher.

Time and Convenience

Car wraps can be provided in a shorter time than paint jobs, therefore making it an ideal option. A vehicle wrap usually lasts for a few days while professional painting may take weeks depending on the number of coats to be applied and the difficulty of the surface. Furthermore, car wraps do not have restrictions on paint curing and drying time as would be required when applying paint. In terms of convenience, a vehicle wrap is better when you want to get your car back on the roads as soon as possible.

Customization and Design Flexibility

Car wraps and paint jobs are very similar in terms of customization where the car owner can choose a wide range of designs, but in flexibility, they are quite different. Vehicle wraps are also very flexible and can be produced in a variety of colors and designs on different types of materials and with different types of finishes like matte gloss or metallic. They also can be unbolted or unscrewed with ease, thus making a change to a new design or going back to the original design seamlessly.

Durability and Maintenance

In the area of durability, high-quality paint jobs are known to provide enhanced protection against harsh environmental conditions. Paint lasts longer and is less likely to get scratched, chipped, or faded from exposure to UV light. Still, vehicle wraps have advanced in terms of how long-lasting they are. Present-day car wraps are designed to be durable and can last 5-7 years if well taken care of. They are also UV-protected and can offer your automobile’s factory paint some protection from minor scratches. Vehicle wraps can be cleaned with water and soap, while power washing, abrasive material, and chemicals should not be used for cleaning vehicle wraps because they may require waxing and touch-up now and then.

Resale Value

In this regard, paint jobs may have the advantage, provided resale value is a consideration. A good paint job, particularly in a standard or generic color, is an added value to the car and will attract a bigger market. Car wraps, on the other hand, can be removed and it does not damage the cars’ exterior as much, which can lead to the car being resold in its original condition. However, with professionally done vehicle wrap and good care, the value of the vehicle may not be reduced considerably.

Protection

Another benefit that is associated with vehicle wraps is the fact that they come in handy in protecting the original paint of your car. This layer may be useful in protecting the primary paint from abrasion, minor impacts, and other types of wear and tear that may be incurred from the environment. Paint jobs, on the other hand, though protective, do not provide this extra layer and may get damaged with time especially if they are not well maintained.

Key Takeaways

Car wraps and painting are two different services that come with their advantages and meet different needs. Car wraps are relatively cheaper, easy to install, flexible in design, and easily reusable. As for painting jobs, they are comparatively more costly and take more time but offer a better and longer-lasting finish, and can increase the value of a property. Your decision will be based on the amount of money you want to spend, the level of personalization required, and how many years you intend to use the car. By balancing these factors, you should be in a position to choose the option that best suits your needs and desire for a certain look for your vehicle.

Are you looking for expert vehicle wraps around the Las Vegas area? Look no further, Bagwear Screen Printing is here to provide you a unique look for your ride! Call us at 760.400.6110 or email us at today to learn more. 

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