What is car wrapping?

Car wrapping is a way of changing the look of your vehicle without the need for a complicated and potentially expensive paint respray. It involves completely or partially covering your vehicle with a vinyl film. This film can be used to overlay the vehicle with a different colour or design, add a gloss or matte finish, or simply add a protective layer.

A car wrap may also be known as a paint wrap, colour change wrap or paint protection film.

How does a car wrap work?

When a car is wrapped, a layer of plastic vinyl coating is stuck over the top of the vehicle’s paintwork.

There are normally three stages to car wrapping:

1. Taking accurate measurements of the car then choosing colours, finishes or graphics to fit.

2. Disassemble the vehicle ready for full deep clean and clay bar.

3. Applying the vinyl to your vehicle.

It can be a fiddly job that won’t look great if it’s not done correctly, so car wrapping should be done by a professionally trained technician. They will be able to properly prepare the surface of your car and ensure the plastic layer is cut to fit each panel.

yes. Vinyl car wrapping can help protect the vehicle’s original paintwork from light scratches and chips, and can also protect from UV damage.

Note though that car wrapping doesn’t offer the same level of defence as car paint protection treatments, in which a chemical topcoat is applied over the paint.

There are plenty of reasons for wanting a car wrap. It’s commonly used for advertising, as a custom wrap can display your business’s logo, contact details and graphics as you drive around.

Car wrapping can also just be used to personalise or freshen the appearance of a car. Often, a vinyl wrap proves cheaper than re-spraying a car. You can also experiment with different patterns and designs for a unique look.

When done properly, car wrapping shouldn’t damage the paint underneath, even when it is being removed, so it should not negatively affect the resale value of a car. In fact, the potential protection a wrap offers could keep the paintwork fresh and therefore increase its second-hand appeal.

There are several different types of car wrap to choose from. Three of the most common top-level choices are:

• Advertising wraps: used to showcase a business’s key information and brand. These are common on vans but can be used on the majority of vehicles.

• Clear vinyl wrapping: used to preserve and protect the original paintwork but keep the vehicle’s original colour and finish.

• Colour vinyl wrapping: an opaque film used to change a car’s colour or finish.

Common for advertising wraps, but also available to other drivers, are custom prints. With a custom print, you can have any image printed onto your wrap and then applied to your car. These are normally available in both matte and glossy finishes.

You do not have to wrap your entire car. Instead, you can opt to just re-colour or modify certain areas, like your wing mirrors, roof or door panels.

You may also simply choose to add a design or pattern to your car. This can be done using decals or stickers, which are cut out by a machine. The application process is much the same as a regular wrap.

Car wrapping maintenance

Can car wraps be washed?

Car wraps can be washed, and a hand wash is the least likely to cause any damage. Drive-through car washes may damage or peel the vinyl wrap. Depending on the wrap used, you may be able to use a pressure washer provided the pressure and temperature are low and you use a wide-angle spray. Regular and gentle washing is one of the best ways to extend the life of your car wrap. Can car wraps be polished? Many polishes contain abrasives that can damage the vinyl car wrap. There are polishes specially designed for wrapped cars, however, that take a softer approach. Can car wraps be waxed? Normally, there’ll be no reason to wax a wrapped car, as the vinyl will offer the same result. If you want to wax your vehicle, you should use pure wax, or a wax specially designed for car wrapping. Which you can buy directly from our online store or in store.

If you look after your vinyl car wrap, you can expect it to last for several years. That said, accidents and poor maintenance can reduce the lifespan. You may also find that natural wear and tear leads to the wrap looking old. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to repair a car wrap. Even full-vehicle vinyl wraps consist of different sections, so you don’t necessarily have to re-wrap your entire car if only one panel needs repairing.

Normally, the vinyl wrap is slowly removed using a heat source like a heat gun. It’s best to have your wrap removed professionally to ensure the car is left in the best possible state.

Paint Protection Film is a thermoplastic urethane often self healing film applied to painted surfaces of a new or used car in order to protect the paint from stone chips, bug splatters, and minor abrasions. This film is also used on airplanes, RVs, cell phones, electronics, screens, motorcycles and many other areas. Paint protection film is OEM approved by virtually all car manufacturers

Item descriptioCleaning vinyl wraps requires special care to maintain their appearance and longevity. Here's a step-by-step guide on the correct way to clean vinyl wraps, along with recommended products and methods to remove tar, bugs, and debris:

Gather the necessary supplies:

A soft microfiber wash mitt or sponge

Two buckets (one for soapy water and one for rinsing)

Vinyl wrap cleaner or a mild, pH-neutral automotive soap

A hose with a spray nozzle or a pressure washer (set at a low pressure)

Microfiber towels or a soft, lint-free cloth

Tar remover or adhesive remover (if necessary)

Bug and tar remover (if necessary)

Rinse the vinyl wrap: Begin by rinsing the entire surface of the vinyl wrap with plain water. This helps remove loose dirt and debris that could scratch the surface during cleaning.

Prepare the soapy water: Fill one of the buckets with water and add the recommended amount of KB Wraps vinyl wrap pH-neutral soap. Follow the product instructions for the proper dilution ratio.

Wash the vinyl wrap: Dunk the microfiber wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water and gently wash the vinyl wrap using a back-and-forth motion. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid dragging dirt onto already cleaned areas. Be gentle and avoid applying excessive pressure, as it could damage the wrap or cause it to peel. Rinse the mitt or sponge frequently in the clean water bucket to prevent dirt from spreading.

Rinse off the soap: After washing a section, immediately rinse it with clean water using a hose with a spray nozzle or a low-pressure setting on a pressure washer. Ensure all soap residue is thoroughly rinsed off to prevent streaking or spotting.

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Item descriCleaning paint protection film (PPF) requires a gentle approach to avoid damaging the film. Here's a step-by-step guide on the correct way to clean PPF, along with recommended products and methods to remove tar, bugs, and debris:

Gather the necessary supplies:

A soft microfiber wash mitt or sponge

Two buckets (one for soapy water and one for rinsing)

KB Wraps PPF-specific cleaner or a mild, pH-neutral ppf soap

A hose with a spray nozzle or a pressure washer (set at a low pressure)

Microfiber towels or a soft, lint-free cloth

KB Wraps Tar remover or adhesive remover (if necessary)

KB Wraps Bug and tar remover (if necessary)

Rinse the PPF: Begin by rinsing the entire surface of the PPF with plain water. This helps remove loose dirt and debris that could scratch the film during cleaning.

Prepare the soapy water: Fill one of the buckets with water and add the recommended amount of KB Wraps PPF-specific cleaner or a mild, pH-neutral ppf soap. Follow the product instructions for the proper dilution ratio.

Wash the PPF: Dunk the microfiber wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water and gently wash the PPF using a back-and-forth motion. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid dragging dirt onto already cleaned areas. Be gentle and avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent damaging the film. Rinse the mitt or sponge frequently in the clean water bucket to prevent dirt from spreading.

Rinse off the soap: After washing a section, immediately rinse it with clean water using a hose with a spray nozzle or a low-pressure setting on a pressure washer. Ensure all soap residue is thoroughly rinsed off to prevent streaking or spotting.

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Item descriptCeramic coatings are a great investment for protecting your vehicle's paint, leather, interior, wheels, and trim from various contaminants and UV rays. Here are some general guidelines on how to clean ceramic coatings for different applications:

Car Paint Ceramic Coating: To clean a car paint ceramic coating, use KB Wraps pH-neutral car wash shampoo, a microfiber wash mitt, and a bucket of water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, high-pressure washers, or abrasive brushes that can damage the coating. Rinse the car thoroughly with water to remove any loose dirt or debris. Then, wash the car in sections, starting from the top, and rinse off the soap with water after each section. Dry the car with a microfiber towel or air blower to prevent water spots.

To remove tar, bugs, or other stubborn contaminants, use a dedicated tar remover or bug and tar remover product. Spray the product on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to dissolve the contaminants. Then, wipe the area gently with a microfiber towel and rinse it off with water.

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Paint protection film creates a barrier between the vehicle's paint and the outside elements. It absorbs the impact of small stones, debris, and other objects, preventing them from directly hitting and damaging the paint. The film's self-healing properties allow it to repair minor scratches and swirl marks over time, keeping the paint surface looking pristine.

The main benefits of paint protection film include:

Protection against scratches, chips, and stains caused by road debris, rocks, insects, and environmental elements.

Self-healing properties that allow the film to repair minor damage and maintain a smooth appearance.

Preservation of the vehicle's resale value by keeping the paint in excellent condition.

Enhanced aesthetics, as the film is virtually invisible and maintains the original look of the vehicle.

Easy maintenance, as the film can be cleaned using standard car wash techniques.

The lifespan of paint protection film can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the film, environmental conditions, and maintenance. High-quality films typically come with warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years or more. Regular maintenance, including proper cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals, can help prolong the film's durability and effectiveness.

While some DIY kits are available, professional installation is highly recommended for optimal results. Professional installers have the expertise, experience, and tools to ensure proper install

It is recommended to apply paint protection film to a clean and undamaged surface. If there are existing scratches, chips, or paint repairs, it is best to have them addressed before applying the film. The film is intended to protect the paint, not cover up existing damage.

Paint protection film is designed to be virtually invisible when applied correctly. It retains the original look and colour of the vehicle while providing protection. The film is optically clear and does not affect the paint's gloss or finish.

PURE ZONE ® is a high-quality anti-microbial clear laminate, which provides effective and long-lasting protection from 99.9% of Germs. The film can be applied alone or accompanied with a custom digital print. It can be applied in all locations with high sanitary requirements or high traffic areas. PURE ZONE ® is used in hospitals, healthcare establishments, doctor offices, dental offices, gyms, schools, restaurants, banks and many other establishments where its necessary to maintain a clean facility. PURE ZONE ® adds that extra layer of protection we all need during these challenging times.

In a statement from its headquarters in Frontignan, France, Hexis said:

HEXIS Group announce that their patented PURE ZONE technology, developed and marketed since 2013, is active in combating the viral load of coronaviruses. The characteristics of PURE ZONE antimicrobial protective films reduce coronavirus viraemia by 95% after a contact of 15 minutes, and nearly 99.9% after a contact of one hour (compared to an untreated membrane).

enhances the performance of Paint Protection Film (PPF) and vinyl wraps. It’s a chemically bonding, ultra-dense flexible film that becomes the permanent surface of the film, protecting it from the elements a car faces daily.

The density of the coating improves dirt and water repellency of PPF or vinyl. It also helps to prevent staining from dirt, as well as reducing yellowing caused by UV.

Features & Benefits:

Makes PPF and Vinyl wrap surfaces easier to maintain

Durability 2-years

Can be used on gloss, satin and matte finishes

Safe on self-healing films

Helps prevent staining

Protects against UV

Only if the paintjob is defective or incorrectly prepped. When properly applied and removed, paint protection film (PPF) should not damage the paint on your vehicle. In fact, the primary purpose of PPF is to protect the underlying paint from damage.

Yes, paint protection film (PPF) and ceramic coating are different forms of vehicle protection, although they both serve the purpose of safeguarding the paintwork. Here are some key differences between PPF and ceramic coating:

Material: PPF is a physical film that is applied directly onto the vehicle's paint surface. It is typically made of a clear urethane material that provides a layer of protection against scratches, chips, and stains. On the other hand, ceramic coating is a liquid polymer that is applied as a thin, transparent layer onto the paint. It chemically bonds with the paint surface to create a protective and hydrophobic layer.

Protection Level: PPF offers a higher level of protection against physical damage such as rock chips, scratches, and insect stains. Its thick and resilient nature helps absorb impacts and prevent direct contact with the paint. Ceramic coating, while it provides some level of protection against light scratches and UV damage, primarily enhances the paint's gloss, makes it easier to clean, and provides hydrophobic properties.

Application Process: PPF is typically applied by professionals due to its precise fitting and installation requirements. The film is carefully cut and shaped to match the contours of the vehicle's panels. On the other hand, ceramic coating can be applied by professionals or as a DIY application. It involves thorough paint preparation, such as decontamination and polishing, followed by the application of the liquid coating and curing process.

Self-Healing Properties: PPF often has self-healing properties, meaning it can repair minor scratches and swirl marks over time. When exposed to heat, such as sunlight or warm water, the film's elastomeric properties help it revert to its original form, reducing the appearance of damage. Ceramic coating, on the other hand, does not possess self-healing properties.

Longevity: PPF tends to have a longer lifespan compared to ceramic coatings. PPF can last for several years, with some high-quality films offering warranties of 5 to 10 years or more. Ceramic coatings, depending on the brand and maintenance, can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years before requiring reapplication.

Cost: PPF is generally more expensive than ceramic coatings due to the cost of materials, installation labor, and the level of protection it offers. Ceramic coatings, while still an investment, are typically less expensive and can be a more cost-effective option for enhancing the appearance and maintaining the paintwork.

It's worth noting that PPF and ceramic coatings are not mutually exclusive. Some car owners opt for both forms of protection to maximize the benefits. The PPF provides physical protection against impacts, while the ceramic coating adds additional gloss, hydrophobicity, and ease of maintenance.

Ultimately, the choice between PPF and ceramic coating depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. It's advisable to consult with professionals in the automotive detailing industry to determine the best solution for your vehicle.