So wraps have caught your interest and you're now considering a car wrap? That's great! Car wraps are an excellent way to change up the look of your vehicle without having to go through a costly and time-consuming paint job.
There's gloss, there's chrome, and then there's matte. Among the many different types of car wraps and Window graphics available on the market, matte car wraps have become increasingly popular in recent years. But before you take the plunge, there are a few things you should know about matte car wraps.
What is a Car Wrap?
Car wraps are large vinyl decals that are applied to the surface of a car. They can be placed on all or just a portion of the car, and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Car wraps can be applied to both new and used cars, and are completely removable without damaging the paint beneath.
Unlike paint jobs, car wraps can be removed without damaging the underlying paint. That's because car wraps are made of a vinyl material that conforms to the contours of the car and can be removed without any adhesive residue. Check out car wrapping vs. painting to learn more about it.
What is a Matte Car Wrap?
A matte car wrap is simply a car wrap with a matte finish. Matte wraps have a unique, low-gloss look that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to their sleek and modern appearance.
What are matte car wraps made of?
Matte car wraps are made of the same vinyl material as other types of car wraps. However, the vinyl used for matte wraps has a specialized finish that gives it its unique look. It's made of a cast vinyl material that is printed and then laminated with a matte finish.
This material is also slightly thicker than other vinyl wraps, which helps to protect the underlying paint more from scratches and other damage. Read on effective ways to protect car paint for more.
What are the main features of a matte car wrap?
Some of the main features of a matte car wrap include:
A unique, low-gloss look
Probably the drawing card for most people considering a matte wrap, the low-gloss look of a matte car wrap is what sets it apart from other types of car wraps (and paint jobs).
Matte wraps have a sleek and modern appearance that is perfect for those who want to change up the look of their vehicle without going too crazy. In fact, it's sophisticated look has even led to matte wraps being used on high-end luxury cars.
A wide range of colors
Matte car wraps are available in a wide range of colors, from traditional black and white to more unique shades like blue, green, and even pink. And because they're made of vinyl, the color is embedded into the material so it won't fade over time.
Customizable
Another great thing about matte car wraps is that they're highly customizable. You can choose to wrap your entire car or just a portion of it, and you can even get creative with the design.
For example, you could have a graphic or pattern printed onto your wrap. The possibilities are endless!
Cost-effective
A car wrap is a much more cost-effective way to change up the look of your vehicle than a paint job. That's because wraps are less labor intensive and can be done in a fraction of the time.
And if you ever decide you want to go back to the original look of your car, all you have to do is remove the wrap.
Slightly thicker than other vinyl wraps
In terms of paint protection, matte car wraps are slightly thicker than other vinyl wraps. So your car's original paint will be better protected from scratches and other damage.
Better at hiding imperfections
If your car has a few scratches or dings, a matte wrap is a great way to hide them. The low-gloss finish of the wrap will help to camouflage any imperfections in the paint beneath.
On the flip side, however, this also means that any new additional scratches or dings will be more noticeable on a matte wrap than on a glossier wrap.
How do you clean and maintain matte car wrap?
To get the most out of your matte car wrap, it's important to clean and maintain it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
1. Wash your car regularly.
Just like with any other type of car wrap, you'll need to wash your matte wrap regularly to keep it looking its best. But because matte wraps are more susceptible to water spots, be sure to use a gentle soap and dry your car ASAP after washing.
To avoid water spots, you can also use a matte car wrap sealant. This will help to create a barrier between your wrap and the elements.
2. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Harsh chemicals can damage your matte car wrap, so it's important to avoid them. When washing your car, stick to gentle soaps and avoid using any harsh chemicals like degreasers or tire cleaners.
3. Don't wax your car.
Waxing is a no-no for matte car wraps. That's because the wax will create a glossy finish that takes away from the matte look. If you want to protect your wrap, use a sealant instead.
4. Be careful when pressure washing.
If you use a pressure washer to clean your car, be careful not to hold the nozzle too close to the wrap. The high-pressure stream of water can damage the material.
To be safe, hold the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the wrap and avoid using a nozzle with a narrower spray pattern.
5. Don't use an automatic car wash.
Automatic car washes are another nope for matte car wraps. The high-pressure brushes can damage the material. If you absolutely must use an automatic car wash, be sure to opt for a touchless option.
5. Park in the shade.
When parked in direct sunlight, your car's wrap can start to fade and become brittle. To help prevent this, try to park in the shade whenever possible. And if you can't avoid parking in the sun, be sure to cover your car with a tarp or car cover.
FAQs
Q: How do I remove a matte car wrap?
A: To remove your matte car wrap, start by heating up the material with a heat gun or hairdryer. This will help to loosen the adhesive and make removal easier. Once heated, slowly peel back the wrap starting at a corner.
Q: How long does a matte car wrap last?
A: A matte car wrap can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. But it's important to note that how long your wrap lasts will depend on how well you take care of it.
Wraps are susceptible to damage from the elements, so it's important to wash your car regularly and keep it covered when possible. With proper care, your wrap should last for many years to come.
Q: How much does a matte car wrap cost?
A: Matte car wraps typically cost between $2,000 and $5,000. The exact price will depend on the size of your car and the complexity of the design.
For example, a small car with a simple design will cost on the lower end of that range. Whereas a large SUV with a more complex design will cost on the higher end.
Conclusion
With its low-gloss finish, a matte car wrap is a great way to add style and personality to your ride. But it's important to keep in mind that this type of wrap requires more care and maintenance than other types of wraps.
If you're willing to put in the extra work, however, a matte car wrap can make your car look unique and stylish for many years to come. Thanks for reading!