Are you considering a car wrap, but don’t know how it will hold up to regular cleaning? We’ve got some answers for you!

The Type of Car Wraps

Whether you want to get your car wrapped for aesthetic or marketing purposes, it is important to do extensive research on the company or person who you decide to go with! Wrapping your car gives you the ability to change up its whole look. Often for a better value than a new paint job. It’s also a great protection for your current paint job against outside elements.

But not all car wraps are created equal! High quality wraps can last five to seven years. Poor quality wraps can start showing wear in as little as a few months. Also, be aware that vinyl requires extra care. You don’t want to leave a wrapped car in our bright Colorado sun for long hours. Plus, vinyl really doesn’t respond well to extreme heat. You may want to rethink the wrap if you regularly drive through or live in an area that often gets temps above 90 degrees.

Quality Counts with Washing 

It is a common misconception that a car wash tunnel can cause damage to car wraps. If the car wrap is up to par and of good quality, there should never be any disturbances made to the wrap itself. That’s why it is important to invest in a quality wrap service to ensure it will last and keep its integrity for a longer period.

Look at the difference between a poorly wrapped car versus a quality wrap after the tunnel:

Notice the wrap starting to peel on the one on the left?

Caring for Your Wrapped Vehicle

Wrapped cars need regular cleaning to maintain its appearance, perhaps more than a standard paint job. Dirt, grime, and pollutants can build up and start fading or pitting the wrap. And don’t forget the salt that is put on Colorado roads during winter snow storms! This can particularly cause havoc with vinyl. The longer these pollutants remain on your car, the more difficult they are to remove and the more likely they are to cause a wrap tear when you try to remove them.

Waxing and sealants are also a good idea to maintain the integrity of a car wrap. These provide an added barrier to the elements, extending the life of the wrap.

Wrapping it Up

The bottom line? If you have a quality wrap, you don’t need to fear taking your car through a car wash. Regular washing is recommended to extend the life of your wrap and the wax options can help to extend its durability even more. If you have any questions about whether Gleam is a good option for your wrapped vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us!