PPF or Vinyl Wrap? How to Choose the Correct Film

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When it comes to customizing and protecting your vehicle, multiple options are available. Our shop specializes in Paint Protection Film Wraps and Vinyl Wraps, so we often receive multiple questions as to which wrap option is the best, and how the two compare. In this blog post we are aiming to answer one question, – what’s better, PPF or Vinyl Wrap? We are hoping to help you find the film that works best for your specific needs.

We would like to begin the comparison between the two by first explaining what PPF and Vinyl Wraps are.

What is PPF:

PPF, which stands for Paint Protection Film (also known as clearbra) is a virtually invisible, typically 8 mil thick self-healing urethane film which is applied to the surface of your vehicle. It offers superior impact protection, keeping the paint of your car safe from scuffs, scratches and rock chips. In addition to impact protection it also helps keep the paint of your car from negative effects of the environment, such as oil spills, bird droppings, and water marks. It also keeps your car safe from negative effects of the UV light, protecting the paint from fading.

What is Vinyl Wrap:

Vinyl wrap is a thin and flexible material, made out of PVC. It is typically 3-4 mil thick, and it comes in different colours, finishes, and textures. Vinyl wrap film comes with a specially formulated adhesive in the back, which allows the material to safely adhere to the surface, and take the shape of whatever it is applied to. Vinyl wrap is mostly used for the purpose of altering the look of your car. Due to an extensive variety of colours and finishes your options are pretty much limitless. Vinyl wrap can also be used for accent pieces, meaning only certain part of the car are wrapped. One of the most popular partial wraps is a chromedelte, when all chrome surfaces of the vehicle are wrapped in vinyl (usually black, however options are not limited).

Now when we gave you a little bit of background of what each film does, it is time to move on to the comparison itself.

PPF or Vinyl Wrap Purpose:

As mentioned previously, PPF and Vinyl Wraps serve slightly different purposes. PPF’s main purpose is to protect the paint of the vehicle from damage. Since the film is clear (although different coloured variations of PPF are entering the market now), it does not make your vehicle look different. It might make it slightly more shiny, however, you wont see any major differences in appearance. Because the film is designed to protect the surface, it is thicker than vinyl, in order to be able to actually protect the paint from impact.

Vinyl wraps, on the other hand, drastically change the look of your car. Transformations that can be achieved with vinyl wraps are incredible. You an go from white to black, add custom accents, cover chrome areas, or add custom graphics. The main purpose of vinyl wraps is to customize the appearance of your vehicle, so the film is designed with this goal in mind. For that reason it is thinner than PPF, and is slightly more flexible.

Surface Protection:

While PPF is still the best way to protect the car from exterior damage, Vinyl Wrap can also serve similar purpose. Although not as thick, it still covers the paint of your car, creating a slight barrier. Obviously, vinyl wraps will not protect the paint from a deep scratch or a scuff, but they will protect it from minor rock chips, bird droppings and negative effects of UV light.

To put it simply, PPF is perfect if you are looking for an extensive protection. It is perfect for an off-road or highway driving. However, if you are mostly driving in the city, vinyl wraps are able to provide a degree of protection as well.

PPF or Vinyl Wrap Packages:

PPF and Vinyl Wrap Films offer slightly different packages, based on areas to cover. Since PPF is transparent, there is no problem in partially covering the car. In fact, the most popular PPF package is a Full Front package, which covers only the front of the vehicle (bumper, hood, fenders, and mirrors).

Vinyl wrap , on the other hand, is typically applied to the whole vehicle, unless a client is looking for a custom design.

Price:

PPF jobs usually cost more than vinyl wrap jobs. You can expect to pay around $5000+ for a full PPF wrap on a sedan. Meanwhile, a full vinyl wrap will typically cost you around $3400 for a similar sized vehicle. It is due to the material cost, which is much higher for PPF, and installation process, which can be a bit more complicated. If you are looking to get a quote for your wrap job, get in touch and we will be able to help you!

Installation:

PPF and Vinyl Wraps are installed differently. PPF uses wet installation, meaning the film needs to be wet in order to adhere to the surface of your car. Installers typically use a mix of soap and water, or an installation gel.

Vinyl wrap, on the other hand, installed dry. In fact, any water during installation process can make wrap job fail. The film does not stick to wet surfaces at all.

Another major difference between the two is how the material is cut. PPF films typically use special cutting software, which comes with a variety of patterns that fit each part of the vehicle. PPF is cut by a plotter, specifically to fit the part it is being applied to.

Vinyl Wraps are cut by hand. Installers normally cut a piece big enough to cover required area, and then trim it once the material is installed.

Paint Condition:

It is important to make sure your paint is in good condition prior to installing any type of wrap on your car. Since PPF is clear, it will show any paint imperfections that your car might have. We always recommend to get paint correction, if the paint is in bad condition. The ideal time to apply PPF is when the car was just picked up from the dealership. That way you can ensure you are protecting the paint which has not yet been damaged. Applying PPF after the car has been driven for some time will not give you the same results. It will protect the car from future damage, however it will not mask any damage that was previously done.

Vinyl wraps are a bit more forgiving. Since Vinyl Film is not transparent, it will hide any visual imperfections. However, if your car has rock chips or is missing paint, it will show through the film. Any textured imperfections will be noticeable through the vinyl.

Longevity:

Both, PPF and Vinyl Wrap Films, when installed properly, will last for a while.

Typically, when cared for properly, Paint Protection Films will last for about 10 years.

Vinyl wraps, if cared for properly, will last for about 5 years.

Both films, if they come from reputable manufacturer, will not damage your paint if its original condition was good.

Things To Keep In Mind:

There are several things you should keep in mind when making your decision on which film to go with.

Although PPF is transparent, overtime you might notice the edges of wrap are beginning to show more. PPF is typically not wrapped around the edge of the panel, so overtime the cut line might start to accumulate dirt and become slightly more visible. It is especially noticeable on partial PPF wraps, like partial hood for example.

In terms of Vinyl Wraps, you should always keep in mind that the original colour of paint might show through in the gaps between panels in some instances. Black Cars are usually the easiest ones to wrap, and this difference is not noticeable. However, if your car is going from white to black, you might still see some white peeking through the gaps. It happens because some areas between panels are simply not reachable, and there is no way to wrap them. We do, however, cover as much of the original colour in gaps as possible. We always aim to create a paint looking finish.

Conclusion: PPF or Vinyl Wrap?

In short, there is no way of saying which film is best. Both are great and are serving slightly different purposes.

If you are looking to change the look of your vehicle, and slightly protect it while driving in the city, Vinyl Wrap is your choice! It adds some level of protection, and allows you to save a couple extra thousands of dollars.

If you do need that full protection against pretty much anything the road can throw at you, and you do have the budget, – PPF is your choice! It is best to apply PPF on your car as soon as you pick it up from the dealership. That way you can ensure the original condition of your paint remains pristine for years to come!

July 29, 2020/by thewrapmaster

What is the Best Paint Protection Film?

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Paint Protection Film, also known as Clear Bra, is the best solution to keep the exterior of your paint looking brand new for longer. Due to its composition and self-healing properties, PPF protects your vehicle from scuffs, rock chips and scratches. In addition, it provides UV protection and keeps the paint safe from negative impact of salt, bird droppings and chemical stains. Due to its increased popularity, many companies nowadays produce Paint Protection Film. So the question becomes obvious, – what brand of paint protection films is the best and how to choose the correct film?

While all major films feature self healing properties, great clarity, reduced orange peel and superior impact protection, there are still some features that are unique to each brand. In this blog post we are giving you an overview of major PPF brands, and their key features.

XPEL

When it comes to Paint Protection Film, XPEL is usually the first name that comes to mind. Founded in 1997, XPEL is the world’s first heat activated self-healing PPF. It is an 8 mil thick film which heals on its own when the surface is exposed to heat. It provides superior surface protection against rock chips, scratches and scuffs.

Cutting Software

One of the major benefits of XPEL films is their own DAP software. It is a library of pre-cut PPF patterns for majority of car models. This software allows to cut pieces precisely for each part of the specific vehicle. In addition, this software allows an installer to customize each piece if desired, to achieve an extra coverage. So choosing an XPEL film usually means that each panel will be wrapped in a piece that fits it precisely.

Features

XPEL features non yellowing finish, and minimal orange peel, which means that the film will not yellow over time, and will keep its smooth texture. XPEL films edge seal technology also prevents the film from lifting, and keeps corners and sides adhered to the surface. The film has a low surface energy which allows it to resist staining and protect the surface from negative environmental conditions.

Options

When it comes to choosing the right type of XPEL film, you are provided with an extensive variety of options.

Ultimate Plus:

One of the most popular XPEL PPF films is XPEL Ultimate Plus. It is an invisible protective film featuring high gloss finish and extreme impact protection. This film also comes in 2 other varieties, – Ultimate Plus 7, and Ultimate Plus 10. Ultimate Plus 7 is a thinner version of Ultimate Plus. It is great for an interior use due to its thinner construction. Ultimate Plus 10, on the contrary, is a thicker film, used primarily for heavy duty off road vehicles, that are more susceptible to getting damaged.

Stealth

Stealth Paint Protection Film is designed specifically for matte or satin vehicles. It features flat finish while offering the same level of protection. So if you are looking to protect your matte vehicle, or turn your gloss paint into matte, – Stealth is your best choice.

Warranty

XPEL offers a 10 year manufacturing warranty from the date of purchase for all of its films. It covers manufacturing defects such as yellowing, cracking, staining, blistering and delaminating.

Kavaca by Ceramic Pro

A new generation of Paint Protection Films, Kavaca by Ceramic Pro, is a recent addition to the PPF family of products. Ceramic Pro is a world’s leader in Nanoceramic coatings, which has introduced a special kind of Paint Protection Film. In addition to regular features of Paint Protection films, such as non-yellowing, reduced orange peel, and chemical and physical protection, Kavaca PPF has the following unique features.

Instant Self-Healing

Unlike any other film, Kavaca PPF features an instant self-healing top coat. You no longer need to apply heat in order to remove scratches. They disappear on their own. This unique feature of Kavaca definitely sets it apart from its competitors. So if you are looking for an instant self-healing effect, – Kavaca is your choice.

Ceramic Pro Coated

Another unique feature of Kavaca is its Ceramic Pro infused top coat. Kavaca comes with a factory applied layer of ceramic Pro Coating, which adds hydrophobic properties to the film. Hydrophobic properties make Kavaca very easy to clean, and prevent dirt and mud from sticking onto the surface. Consequently, your car stays clean for longer, which saves you time and money. The washing of a Kavaca wrapped car is also easier and quicker, because less dirt sticks to the surface.

Another benefit of an added layer of Ceramic Pro is its shine. Kavaca film makes your car look super shiny, and helps it to stay in a showroom like condition for longer!

In addition, Kavaca PPF comes with a protective layer which installers remove during installation. This protective layer helps protect the film from any installation related accidents, perfecting the final look.

Options:

For now Kavaca only comes in gloss finish, meaning you can’t use it for your matte vehicle if you want to keep the finish flat. So if you are looking to protect your matte vehicle, unfortunately Kavaca won’t work for you. However, Ceramic Pro announced that they are working on creating a matte version of Kavaca PPF, which is supposed to be released by the end of the year. So if you are looking for a Ceramic Pro coated PPF for your matte vehicle, you might have to wait just a little bit longer.

Warranty

Ceramic Pro offers a 12 year manufacturing warranty for Kavaca PPF, which is a bit better than XPEL warranty.

Cutting Software

Unfortunately, at this moment there is no cutting software designed specifically for Kavaca film. Installers get a discounted access to a software called True Cut, which is used by another PPF manufacturer, Suntek. However, the library of patterns is limited, and some patterns are not available. In this case, installers typically free cut pieces, and use technique called “bulking”.

SunTek

Another manufacturer of protective films we are going to talk about today is SunTek. SunTek films contain a proprietary top-coat which protects the urethane against surface scratches. This film also possess self-healing qualities, and will self-heal when exposed to heat. Similarly to other paint protection films on the market, SunTek prevents yellowing of film, and minimizes orange peel.

Options:

When it comes to finishes, SunTek also offers you a variety of choices depending on a protection level and the look you are going for.

Paint Protection Film Clear

SunTek Paint Protection Film Clear is a nearly invisible paint protection film, featuring high shine finish. It protects the car from rock chips and light scratches, while adding shine to the look of your vehicle.

Paint Protection Film Matte

Matte Paint Protection Film has the same benefits of Clear PPF, but in a stylish matte look. This film can be applied to satin, matte or “frozen” finishes to protect them from damage of daily driving.

Paint Protection Film Ultra

This is a premium level PPF, which comes in both, gloss and matte finishes. One of its key differences is its HydroResist top coat layer, which increases stain resistance and limits water and dirt accumulation on the car surface.Superior protection with added hydrophobic features.

Cutting Software

SunTek provides installers with access to a TruCut cutting software and pattern library. However, having personally used it, we found that pattern options were a bit limited.

Warranty:

SunTek offers different types of warranties for different types of finishes. 10 years manufacturing warranty for the Ultra line, and 5 years manufacturing warranty for the Matte and Clear lines.

3M

You have probably heard of 3M Vinyl Wraps. However, the company also established great reputation in Paint Protection Film World as well.

Options

3M offers 3 categories of Paint Protection Films, depending on durability level.

3M Surface Protection Film

The most cost effective option out of the three, it is also the thinnest one. At only 6 mil thick, it is ideal for a variety of surfaces. However, we would’t recommend using it for the exterior due to its thinner complexion. It has a good scratch and stain resistance, however is the least durable out of the three. It is available in Gloss finish only.

Scotchguard Paint Protection Film

Medium range film, Scotchguard PPF is extremely durable film applied to high impact areas. One of its key features is its clear coat with UV inhibitors, which helps maintain clarity.

Scotchguard Paint Protection Film Pro Series

The name speaks for itself. The Pro Series is the most advanced line of 3M Paint Protection Films. It features self-healing technology that makes most scratches to disappear. This film also comes in Matte and Gloss finishes, to allow for a wider range of applications.

Cutting Software

3M has their own pattern cutting software, which features an extensive portfolio of cutting patterns. One of the great things about this software is that your installer can create custom patterns with “design and edit” option. This function allows to modify patterns, and cut pieces for custom made body parts, as well as increase area of coverage.

Warranty

3M warranty covers manufacturing defects, however the warranty period varies based on the film series:

10 years for Scotchguard PPF Pro Series

7 years for Scotchguard PPF

5 years for Surface Protecton Film

So as you can see, it is hard to say exactly what brand of paint protection films is the best. There is a lot of factors to consider when picking the right film. All of the above films are relatively similar in terms of impact protection, so it does come down to special features each one has. We always recommend to talk to your installer and see what they recommend for your specific project.

Talk to us if you have any more questions in regards to the best brand of paint protection films for your project! We hope you enjoyed this blog post and found some new information!

May 27, 2020/by thewrapmaster

What is Ceramic Pro

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Ceramic Coatings are gaining their popularity among car enthusiasts. A solution that keeps your vehicle smooth and clean is saving car owners lots of time when it comes to car washing and maintenance. One of the global leaders in Nanoceramic Surface Protection Technology is Ceramic Pro. It has become widely popular and took a detailing world by a storm. But what exactly is Ceramic Pro, and what makes it so special? In this blog post we attempt to answer this question.

What is Ceramic Pro

It is a multi-layerable, clear, liquid nano-ceramic coating. When cured, it transforms into a permanent, durable glass shield. It is a clear coat reinforcer, with 3 times the hardness and self-cleaning properties. It enhances the colour of your car, makes it very shiny, and helps keep your vehicle clean by repelling dirt and grease.

Why Ceramic Pro?

Ceramic Pro has numerous benefits, including the following:

Creating a barrier against water damage
Protecting your car from negative environmental conditions
Preventing corrosion and oxidation
Protecting the surface against negative effects of UV rays
Adding permanent gloss and shine
Significantly easing maintenance
Preventing dirt, grease and dust from sticking to your vehicle
Making the surface extremely hydrophobic

Ceramic Pro System

Ceramic Pro is applied in multiple layers, with 8-10 hours of curing time in between. It is important to make sure the previous layer is fully cured prior to applying the next one. A complete application usually consists of the following products:

Nano Primer:

Firstly, application begins with Nano Primer. It serves as a base prior to applying coating. It prepares the surface for coating, and increases coating bonding strength.

Key Features:

Non-abbrasive
Sillicon-free
Water-based
Wax-Free

Ceramic Pro 9H:

Secondly, 9H application begins once the primer cures. It is a highly durable protective coating that protects the surface from damaging contaminants. It contains silica dioxide and titanium dioxide and the secret sauce – the solvents. When exposed to air, this solution will dry to about 65% hard glass. When cured, it forms a permanent bond with the surface, which can only be removed by abrasion. Ceramic Pro 9H can be applied in layers, which means the thickness of the coating can be increased by adding additional layers of the product. The name 9H refers to the measurement of hardness which is achieved after the product is applied. In comparison, regular hardness of automotive pant is 3H. In addition, Ceramic Pro 9H is very flexible, which means it will not shutter.

Key Features:

Scratch Resistance (Above 9H)
Super Hydrophobic Effect
Weather & UV Resistance
Thermal Resistance (up to 1200°C)
Anti-Graffiti
Advanced Chemical Resistance
Oxidation & Corrosion Resistant
High Gloss Finish

Top Coat:

Finally, Top coat (a finishing layer) is applied after 9H layering is done. It allows surface to stay cleaner, since dirt and dust do not easily stick to it. Due to its super hydrophobic effect, water simply beads up on the surface, and rolls off. Top Coat also enhances gloss depth on all painted surfaces to achieve the wet look.

Key Features:

Super Hydrophobic Effect
Weather & UV Resistance
High Gloss Finish
Anti-Graffiti
Advanced Chemical Resistance
Oxidation & Corrosion Resistance

Vinyl Wrap and PPF Application

Ceramic Pro application is not limited to paint surfaces only. It can also be applied to a Vinyl Wrap or Paint Protection Film. Ceramic Pro has created a line of products designed specifically for polyurethane and vinyl films. Ceramic Pro PPF & Vinyl protects the film from contamination and weathering, resulting in a film thats much easier to clean! Key features of the product include:

Super Hydrophobic Effect
Weather and UV resistance
Anti-Graffiti
Reduced Orange Peel
Ease of Maintenance

Ceramic Pro Technology Explained

So how does this product actually work? Well, the surface of your paint or vinyl wrap is porous. Those pores are not visible to the naked eye, due to their microscopic size. Ceramic Pro particles form a covalent bond and fill in those pores using very small particles of silica dioxide and titanium dioxide, creating a permanent protective filler. This is your protection against UV light, heat, and other negative environmental conditions. This layer is permanent, because it fills in the pores. The only way to remove it is by abrasion.

Other Automotive Applications

Vehicle exterior is not the only area suitable for the treatment. Ceramic Pro makes multiple products for different types of applications that allow you to protect the whole vehicle.

CP Sport:

This product is usually used on previously treated surfaces in order to freshen up their Hydrophobic Top Coat. It can also be applied on its own for a short 6 months long result.

CP Rain:

Used to treat glass areas, this product significantly improves visibility when driving in the rain due to its hydrophobic qualities. It also helps keep your windshield clean for much longer.

CP Leather:

Interior protector, Leather protects seats and dashboard from spills, stains and dye transfer. It minimizes aging of leather, and keeps the interior of your car looking brand new.

CP Tag:

A purifying system, this product kills bacteria and microbes on any water absorbent surfaces and keeps them pathogens free for up to 6 months.

CP Wheel and Caliper:

This product is designed specifically for wheels and exhaust pipes. It helps keep them clean and dirt free, while adding a hydrophobic effect.

Ceramic Pro Packages

We offer multiple Ceramic Pro packages based on your needs and budget:

Gold Package:

This package includes 4 layers of 9H applied to the surface of the vehicle, providing a lifetime protection. The package includes:

4 layers of 9H
1 extra layer on exposed areas
1 layer of Top Coat
lifetime warranty
1 layer of Top Coat on plastic and wheels
1 layer of CP Rain on windshield and windows

Silver Package

Silver package includes a layer of 9H applied to the surface of the vehicle, providing a 5 year protections. This package includes:

1 layer of 9H
1 layer of Top Coat
5 year warranty
1 layer of 9H on plastic and wheels
1 layer of CP Rain on windshield and windows

Bronze Package

Bronze package includes a layer of top coat applied to the surface of the vehicle, providing protection against light scratches for 2 years. This package includes:

1 layer of top coat
1 layer of top Coat on plastic and wheels
2 year warranty
1 layer of CP Rain on windows and windshield

Toxicity Tests

Ceramic Pro products have undergone SGS testings. SGS is the world’s leading independent testing body. All of the products within the line have been tested and certified as non-toxic while achieving the highest possible results in all tests.

When tested for Heavy Metal Lead, Antimony, Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium, Mercury, Selenium, – none were detected in all tested substances. Ceramic Pro has been tested against 144 substances of very high concern (SVHC) screening. As a result, none were detected in all tested substances.

Ceramic Pro Myths

As with any product on the market, there are different myths and misconceptions surrounding Ceramic Pro coating. In this section we are aiming to dispel some of the most common ceramic Pro myths.

It fills in scratches

Unfortunately not. Ceramic Pro is not a solution to fix scratches. It does not fill them in, or make them disappear. The only effective way to remove the majority of scratches is Paint Correction. No other coatings or solutions will be as effective.

It protects paint from damage

Many believe that ceramic Coatings can protect the paint from scratches, however, this is not exactly true. While adding some degree of protection, Ceramic Pro is by no means comparable to Paint Protection Film. While Paint Protection film is your shield against exterior damage. Ceramic Pro, on the other hand, will only be able to withstand a very small amount of impact. We never recommend it to clients as a solution to protect their car from rock chips and scuffs.

It replaces maintenance

While Ceramic Pro does make your car hydrophobic, shiny, and keeps it clean for longer, regular maintenance is still a necessity. You still need to wash your car regularly with proper solutions. What Ceramic Pro does is makes this process very easy and quick, but it does not replace it.

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Ceramic Pro. If you still have more questions, feel free to reach out to us!

May 13, 2020/by thewrapmaster

What is Paint Protection Film and is it worth the hype?

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Paint Protection Film has become a popular solution for protecting vehicle exteriors from negative impact of daily driving. In this blog post we dive deeper into understanding what Paint Protection Film is, and if it’s worth getting.

What is Paint Protection Film:

Paint Protection Film (PPF), also known as Clear Bra, is an 8mil thick clear flexible film, made out of polyurethane. It comes with a specially formulated adhesive in the back, which safely adheres to the surface of your car. PPF can be applied on top of existing paint, or vinyl wrap to protect it from harsh driving conditions. Typically, Paint Protection Films posses heat activating self healing properties, meaning scratches heal on their own when some heat is applied.

One of the greatest features of paint protection film is that it saves you money when it comes to a panel repair. If something happens and your car gets scratched, you won’t need to replace the whole car part, or get it repainted. If your car is protected with PPF, a team of trained installers will simply remove the film, and get it replaced with a new piece. Typically, PPF withstands general damage occurring during daily driving.

Obviously, if your car got into a major accident, PPF won’t be able to protect the paint, since the impact is too strong.

Key Features:

Self Healing – most scratches will disappear with heat
Explicit Texture – high gloss and matte finishes
Discolouration and Stain Resistance – film remains clear under the harshest conditions
Non yellowing – film will not yellow from UV exposure
Edge Seal Technology – film will not start lifting on edges
Mirror Smooth Finish – protection should be indistinguishable from factory paint
Durability – superior impact protection

Paint Protection Film Benefits:

Protection against rock chips, scuffs and scratches
Protection against stains, spills, bird droppings, and bug guts
Protecting from negative effects of UV light
Ease of repairability
Preserveness of resale value
Extensive product warranty

Installation Process

Installation process starts with an extensive wash and exterior detailing. It is important to make sure that the surface of the car is absolutely clean and free of dust particles. We use clay bar to ensure the surface of your vehicle is free of especially stubborn contaminants.

After that, installation begins. Paint Protection Film is installed using a wet installation method. First, the surface of the car is generously sprayed with installation gel or soap solution. After that, each piece of the material is also sprayed, and applied to the panel. The spray solution activates the adhesive, and allows for an easier movement and placement of the material.

Once all of the pieces are installed, the car is left inside for a 12 hour curing process, to ensure everything dries and the adhesive cures properly.

Installation Methods:

There are two ways to install paint protection film.

Pre-cut (DAP)

Typically, Paint Protection film pieces are pre-cut on a plotter, using DAP software. Each piece is cut to specifically fit the part it is being applied to. DAP software features an extensive library of PPF templates made for every individual part of each vehicle. During this installation there is no trimming required, since pieces of the material fit each panel precisely.

Bulking

There is another method that installers sometimes use. It is called bulking. In case of bulking the film is applied directly to the car part, and it is then trimmed around the edges. Similar installation method is used in Vinyl Wraps. Bulking is normally used on areas that require more coverage, or when working with areas for which pre-cut option is not available, like custom body kits, for example.

Types of Paint Protection Films:

Paint Protection Films are designed be transparent to allow the original paint colour to show. However, a new series of coloured paint protection films has been launched recently. In this section we will talk about the most popular types of Paint Protection Films that currently exist on the market.

Gloss PPF

One of the most common used types of Paint Protection Film is a Gloss Finish Film. It is clear and transparent, and features high gloss finish. This type of film is normally applied to a gloss car.

Matte PPF (Stealth)

Matte finish PPF is another type of film. It is used on two occasions, – when the car is matte, and the owner is looking to protect it. Or when the car is gloss, but the owner wants to change the look as well as add protection. In case of matte PPF on a gloss car Partial PPF wrap is out of the question, since wrapped parts will look completely different from non wrapped.

Coloured PPF

You are no longer limited to transparent clear Paint Protection Films. Recently a series of coloured and textured Paint Protection Films was launched by a number of companies. PPF no longer serves a sole purpose of protecting your vehicle from damage. Coloured and textured films are doing it in a fashionable matter, by allowing you to customize the exterior of your vehicle while keeping it safe.

Application Areas:

Paint Protection Films can be applied on any exterior area of your car. Some interior applications are also available for an enhanced protection. One of the most popular areas of coverage is full front. It includes Front Bumper, Hood, Fenders and headlights. Since this area is getting the most amount of damage during driving, it is the first area you would want to protect.

Paint Protection Film Packages:

We offer multiple packages to satisfy your needs. Below is a list of our most popular Paint Protection Film Packages

Partial Front End:

partial Hood
full front bumper
partial fenders

Full Front End:

full front bumper
mirrors
full hood
A-pillars
full front fenders
headlights

Full Car:

the whole car is protected with PPF

Custom Package:

We can create a custom package to fit your needs, or customize any of our existing packages . Contact us today to get a free tailored quote for your PPF Project.

Interior Package:

Central console
Dashboard (when able)
Screen

What package to choose:

Picking the right PPF package is an important decision, since it determines how much protection your car will get. Below we have outlined a a brief set of factors to consider that might help you pick the package that suits you best.

What type of driving do you normally do? Are you a highway driver? Do you tend to avoid overcrowded city areas? Do you have your own parking garage? If the answer to these questions is yes, then you can probably get away with Full Front Package. If you tend to avoid busy city streets, and don’t have to park very close to your neighbour on the parking lot, your risks of getting other parts of your car damaged are lower. Although we always recommend going for a full protection, full front package is a great alternative for those who avoid the majority of risks, and want to save a bit of money.

Are you a city driver? Do you often park in tight shopping malls and grocery stores parking stalls? Are you often surrounded by people with shopping carts? In this case we would definitely recommend going for a full PPF wrap. Parking and driving in the city can cause lots of damage to your car, due to high traffic. Full PPF wrap will protect your car top to bottom, and keep it scratch and scuffs free.

Paint Protection Film Cost:

Depending on the package you choose, the size of your vehicle and the type of film, PPF packages on average can vary between 1500$ – 7000$. Let us help create a free estimate for your vehicle

Timeline:

PPF installation is typically taking more time than a vinyl wrap installation. Because liquid solutions are used during installation, we need some extra time to make sure everything is dried properly, and the film has fully cured. For that reason we typically budget about about 2 days for a partial PPF wrap, and 4-7 days for a full PPF wrap.

Materials We Use:

We work with world’s leaders in Paint Protection Film industry, such as XPEL and Kavaca,

XPEL

XPEL film is the world’s first self-healing Paint Protection Film. This film features an increased impact protection against rock chips, scratches and scuffs. It features a heat activating self healing top layer, which heals scratches when heat is applied. The film does not yellow with time and is stain resistant. XPEL films come in Gloss and Matte Finish to offer a protection option for any vehicle. In addition, XPEL offers a 10 year warranty for its products.

Kavaca

Paint Protection Film of new generation, Kavaca PPF comes with a factory added layer of Ceramic Pro coating, and has instant self-healing properties. Kavaca films do not need heat in order to heal scratches. They self heal on their own! A factory added layer of ceramic Pro helps add shine and eases mainatanace. Due to its hydrophobic properties, Ceramic Pro prevents dust and dirt from sticking onto the surface of the film. So in addition to scratch and scuffs protection, your vehicle is also getting protection from debris and rain! It also offers limited lifetime warranty.

Paint Protection Film vs Ceramic Pro Coating:

Paint Protection Film is often compared with Ceramic Pro Coating, however the two are quite different and serve different purposes. CeramicPro, while adding a minor level of protection to your vehicle’s paint, still isn’t able to protect it from rock chips and scratches. Paint Protection film on the other hand, is designed to provide your vehicle with this protection. Because of its thickness and composition, small rocks and other road debris are not able to break through the film.

So in summary, Ceramic Pro, while adding a little protection, is mostly used for the ease of maintenance and improved looks. Whereas PPF is used for protection.

If you are looking to get both, you could choose to get your vehicle wrapped with PPF, and coated with Ceramic Pro. Or you could choose to go with Kavaca PPF, which already has a layer of Ceramic Pro coating applied.

Paint Protection Film Limitations:

As good as Paint Protection film is, unfortunately it isn’t a perfect solution against any type of damage. Paint Protection Film has its limitations as well.

Paint Protection Film has a limit as to how much impact it can take. High impact collision will almost certainly damage and break the film. While you are safe from the majority of slow speed accidents, higher speed collisions or high impact can definitely cause film to fail.

If after reading this blog you still have some unanswered questions, please feel free to reach out!

May 7, 2020/by thewrapmaster

Vinyl Wraps – Factors to Consider Before Wrapping Your Car

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Vinyl wraps have become significantly more popular over the last few years. What started as a simple alternative to paint, has grown into a massive multibillion dollar industry. Many people nowadays think Vinyl Wrap when it comes to exterior customization options for their vehicles. However, everything has its pros and cons. So in this blog post we outlined some major benefits and things to consider prior to getting your car wrapped, all in hopes of helping you make an informative decision.

What is Vinyl Wrap

Vinyl Wrap is an alternative to car paint. It is a thin flexible film that comes from the factory with specially formulated adhesive on the back that safely adheres to the surface of the car. The film is very flexible, and with certain manipulations it takes shape of whatever it is applied to. It comes in a variety of colours and finishes, which allows you to fully customize the exterior of your vehicle. The film is fully removable, and leaves no damage on the vehicle if installation was performed correctly, the material was removed within the warranty period, and high quality materials were used.

Vinyl Wraps Cost

While many still believe Vinyl Wraps to be cheap, with higher quality materials, more skilled and qualified installers, and an increased demand prices vary greatly. Yet, in general Vinyl Wraps still cost less than a paint job. For example, it would cost you around 3000$-3500$ to get a high quality Matte Wrap on a mid sized sedan. Whereas high quality Matte Paint job would cost you anywhere from 5000$ and up. Prices of wrap jobs will also vary based on the size of your vehicle and the type of material you are going for. However in general Vinyl Wraps will still cost you less than an equivalent paint job.

Extensive Variety of Options

Vinyl Wrap Films come in a great variety of options. There are multiple colours, finishes and textures for you to choose from. From simple gloss wraps, to sophisticated mattes, to head turning chromes. Vinyl Film manufacturers release new colours on a half a year basis, which means your options are only growing. Do you want something more unique? Go for embossing, which will add a touch of character to your wrap. There are also options of brushed or carbon fibre wraps, which make for perfect accent pieces. The sky is the limit. If you are struggling to make the right choice, check out our blog post on What Wrap To Choose to best express your personality and style.

Longevity

High quality Vinyl Wraps that are properly cared for will last you for up to 5 years.

No Commitment

One of the greatest features of Vinyl Wraps is its low commitment. If you are bored of the colour of your car, but don’t want to go to an extend of repainting it, vinyl wraps are perfect for you. Since the film can be taken off the car anytime, there is absolutely no commitment to keep it for longer than desired. The removal process is performed by certified installers, and usually takes a few hours, if the correct film was used.

Safe for Paint

If you are using a high quality Vinyl Wrap from trusted manufacturers like 3M or Avery, Vinyl Wrap is completely safe for your paint. Considering that your paint is in good condition, Vinyl will not peel off or damage the paint. Many Vinyl Wraps manufacturers provide an extensive warranty for their films. Additional warranty is provided by a wrap shop performing the job. At Aegis Paint Shield we offer our clients a lifetime installation warranty, meaning we will fix al installation related issues for as long as you keep the car.

Quick Instal

Vinyl wraps are quicker to instal, when compared to paint. We’ve had Vinyl Wrap projects that were completed in 2 days, and the car was ready to be returned to the client. As opposed to paint, wrapped cars don’t need to be kept at the shop for an extensive period of time, since vinyl does not have a long curing period. So if you are willing to get your car wrapped over the weekend, you can have it ready by Monday morning for your commute to work. You’ll get lots of attention from your coworkers on the parking lot!

Resale Value

Vinyl Wraps also help to preserve resale value of your car, as opposed to paint. The film helps protect the paint from minor exterior damage and environmental conditions affecting the paint. It is by no means an equivalent to Paint Protection Film, however it still serves as a thin barrier between your paint and harmful conditions of daily driving.

Vinyl Wrap Repairability

If we were to compare the ease and cost of repairability, vinyl wraps are relatively easy and cheap to repair. If the panel is scratched, all it takes is for the damaged vinyl to be removed, and new one installed. It can be easily done in a day, and you can have your car back looking brand new.

Things To Consider

As great as Vinyl Wraps are, they are not perfect. There is a few factors you should consider prior to wrapping your car

Paint Condition

In order to get the best quality Vinyl Wrap it is important to make sure your paint is in good condition. Due to its nature Vinyl Wraps do not hide paint defects, but sometimes accentuate them. So if your paint is peeling off, or some major surface damage is present, Vinyl Wrap is not recommended until the paint is fixed. If applied to damaged paint, Vinyl Wrap might peel it off when removed.

Material Quality

It is very important to only use high quality Vinyl Films. We work with trusted and industry recognized Vinyl Film manufacturers like 3M and Avery. Low quality cheap films are harder to manipulate, which results in poor installation quality, bubbles and wrinkles. In addition, cheap films typically use poorly formulated adhesive, which damages the paint and makes a removal process a nightmare.

Installer Skills

Picking the right shop and the right installer for your project is also highly important. Many inexperienced installers leave visible seams on parts of your vehicle, which clearly makes it look DIY’ish. In addition, poorly wrapped corners and untucked edges lead to vinyl lifting and wrinkles. At Aegis Paint Shield we perform a seamless installation, making sure each panel is wrapped in one piece, unless it is absolutely impossible. In those rare cases, we hide the seam to make it almost invisible.

Visible Gaps

Because Vinyl Wrap is only applied to the exterior of your vehicle, on some occasions the original colour will show in panel gaps. This is especially true if your vehicle is white. Although installers do their best to hide as much of the original colour as possible, sometimes there is just no way to stick vinyl to the area between panels. In this case you might notice the original colour still showing through. It is not always the case, but it is a factor you should keep in mind when going with Vinyl Wraps.

Care Routine

If you are wrapping your car, your car care routine will have to change. We do not recommend using automatic car washes, since brushes can scratch the vinyl. Avoid using any brushes on your wrapped vehicle. The best way to care for your wrap is to hand wash it with a microfibre and some soap. For more care instructions check out our blog post on How To Care For Your Wrap .

Environmental Conditions

Vinyl Wrap is vulnerable to environmental conditions. In order to prolong the life of your wrap we recommend you protect your car from an extensive sun exposure. If you live in a hot and sunny climate, try to avoid parking your car in the sun for a long period of time. Sun will make the adhesive bond to the surface of the car, which will cause issues during removal process. Extensive exposure to UV light might also accelerate colour fading process. In this case we recommend that you protect your car with Ceramic Pro Coating, a coating solution which protects your wrap from negative effects of UV light. In addition, Ceramic Pro eases maintenance of your vehicle, and keeps it clean for longer by preventing dirt and dust from sticking to your wrap.

Another way to protect your wrap from damage and negative effects of the environment is Paint Protection Film. It is applied directly on Vinyl to protect it from scratches, rock chips and minor dents.

We hope you find this information useful, and that we helped you to understand all of the necessary factors to consider prior to getting your car wrapped. If you have any further questions, reach out to us!

April 28, 2020/by thewrapmaster

What Is CeramicPro Tag

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CeramicPro Tag

With an increased spread of COVID-19, many businesses and individuals are looking for ways to protect themselves and their loved ones. While there is still no vaccine, disinfecting and sanitizing highly touched surfaces has become one of the methods to try and prevent the spread of the virus. While sanitizing surfaces with isopropyl alcohol is one of the frequently used solutions, it unfortunately is not stopping the bacteria from growing on the treated surface again. CeramicPro has come up with a solution that does not only kill the bacteria on the surface, but it also prevents it from growing on it again. Introducing CeramicPro Tag.

What is CeramicPro Tag

CeramicPro Tag is a Titanium Dioxide progressive purification system based on photocatalytic effect designed to kill pathogens such as bacteria, microbes and viruses, which are a common cause of diseases, foul odours and mold. It is a completely safe and non-toxic water-based self cleaning solution with photocatalytic self cleaning properties. Photocatalytic properties mean that when Ceramic Pro Tag is applied to a surface and exposed to UV light such as the sun, it kills 99.9 % of present pathogens.

How It Works

When applied to the surface, the solution is activated by UV rays, which react with titanium dioxide and break down microbes which cause deceases and foul odour. This photocatalytic effect is similar to electrolysis. It breaks down the molecules of water into hydrogen and hydroxide, destroying membranes of bacteria, microbes and structural elements of viruses causing them to decompose or loose structural and functional integrity. CeramicPro Tag can also be activated by indoor LED lighting, since it produces some UV lighting, which is sufficient enough to activate it.

How Long Does It Last

Traditional alcohol based solutions that people typically use for sanitization kill the majority of bacteria and microbes. However, right after sterilization the pathogens resume reproduction until the surface is clean again. The purifying effect of Ceramic Pro TAG on the other hand is long-lasting. It keeps working for up to 6 months due to the constant UV rays exposure. So in other words, the solution is constantly being activated to protect surfaces from bacteria and viruses.

CeramicPro Tag Application

CeramicPro Tag can be applied on any surface. Some of the most common applications include, but are not limited to the following:

car interiors
textiles
office spaces
restaurants
bars
children playgrounds
public spaces

Any high traffic area that is often exposed to bacteria and viruses is a perfect application for CeramicPro Tag.

Benefits Of CeramicPro Tag

99.9% efficiency against pathogens
Keeps environment free of pathogens
kills microbes, bacteria and viruses
Removes foul odor
Over 6 months of purifying effect

Testing

Ceramic Pro Tag has been exposed to SGS testing. SGS is the world’s largest and leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company, which ensures that products and services comply with global standards and local regulations. CeramicPro Tag was found to have no toxic substances.

How To Order

Protect yourself and your businesses today. Contact us to book your CeramicPro Tag treatment, and eliminate bacteria and viruses for up to 6 months!

March 30, 2020/by thewrapmaster

Ceramic Pro FAQ

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Ceramic Pro: All You Need to Know

What is Ceramic Pro?

It is a clear liquid nano-ceramic coating that creates an extra protective layer once applied to the surface of your vehicle. It protects the surface of the car, extends its longevity, and significantly eases maintenance.

What is Ceramic Pro Used For?

It is used to improve and protect the exterior of your vehicle in multiple ways:

1. Extreme gloss:

CP deepens the colour and flattens the clear coat, which results in enhanced shine of the car.

2. Protection:

CP protects the surface of the car from elements of the environment that can damage the paint, such as acid, iron, bird dropping, and UV light.

3. Scratch Resistance:

CP hardens the clear coat of the car which results in higher resistance against light scratches.

4. Water Stains:

CP prevents formation of water stains, keeping the exterior of your car looking brand new.

5. Hydrophobicity:

Due to its hydrophobic effect, Ceramic Pro significantly reduces the amount of time needed to wash your vehicle. Because of lower surface energy, dirt, dust and tar don’t stick to the surface, keeping your car clean for longer.

How Long Does It Take to Apply?

Application of CP is a multistage process with curing time required in between stages. Depending on the package you choose, installation will take from 6 to 18 hours (1 to 3 business days).

How Long Does Ceramic Pro Last?

Depending on the package you choose, CP coating will stay on your car from 6 month to 5+ years.

What Does Ceramic Pro Cost?

We offer different packages to meet different budgets. Price of CP ranges from $350 to $2500, depending on size of vehicle and selected package. Please note that paint correction is an additional cost, it may be required/recommended prior to CP installation

Is It Safe for Paint?

Ceramic Pro is completely safe for paint. Moreover, it is beneficial to have CP on your paint, because it helps keep its original condition.

Can It Be Applied on Vinyl or Paint Protection Film?

There is a line of Ceramic Pro products designed specifically for Vinyl Wrap and Paint Protection Film applications. However, this product cannot be applied to Matte Vinyl Wrap and Matte PPF, because Matte effect will be altered by CP high gloss properties.

What Else Can Be Treated?

CP can be applied on almost anything. In fact, all exterior packages include application on wheels, exhaust tips and windows. Entire interior of the car can also be treated with CP to protect it from spills and dye transfer.

What is Ceramic Pro Rain?

It is a product that was specifically designed to treat glass surfaces. It provides very high hydrophobic effect that improves visibility while driving in rain. CP Rain also makes it easier to remove ice from windows, and keeps your windshield significantly cleaner.

Does Ceramic Pro Protect the Car from Scratches?

While CP makes surface of the car scratch resistant, it doesn’t make it scratch proof. If you are looking for a solution to protect your car from rock chips and deep scratches, consider using Paint Protection Film, which specifically designed for that.

Does Ceramic Pro Help Heal Scratches?

CP does not fix existing scratches, swirls or dents on the car. Surface of the car may need to be polished (paint correction process) to ensure best results.

Where to Buy?

CP is only sold to certified installers and shops through CeramicPro distribution channel. It’s unavailable to general public or in retail stores.

Can I Apply Ceramic Pro Myself?

Absolutely not. It is a professional product that is sold only to specialists that are trained to work with it. If you somehow get a hold of CP to install it yourself, chances of bad installation are extremely high. We strongly recommend to not instal Ceramic Pro yourself, since chances of mishandling it are quite high.

Who Can Install Ceramic Pro?

Only installers certified by Ceramic Pro can perform installation. We have completed such certification, and have worked on multiple projects. Contact us to get a FREE QUOTE for your Ceramic Pro needs.

How do I Maintain a Coated Vehicle?

There is no special maintenance required. Usual maintenance of the car still applies to CP treated car. You can safely use same soaps and procedures to wash your car… only it will be much easier to do!

How Does Ceramic Pro Compare to Wax?

CP provides a much longer lasting effects. It seals the clear coat much better than wax. It also provides a longer lasting self cleaning effect.

Do I need to Reapply CP and How Often

The shortest lasting CP package will stay on your car for 6 month. After 6 month expire, you can bring your car back for another application of the same package, or you can choose to upgrade for a longer lasting effect.

Can I Wrap a Coated Vehicle?

You cannot wrap over Ceramic Pro, since due to its low surface energy Vinyl Wrap simply won’t stick. You need to make sure the coating is removed before wrapping your car.

If we haven’t answered all of your questions, and you still need more information about the service, please feel free to get in touch with us, as we will answer all of your questions!

February 7, 2020/by thewrapmaster

Vinyl for Wrapping Cars: What to Choose?

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Vinyl For Wrapping Cars

When it comes to vinyl for wrapping cars, there are multiple options for you to choose from. There is a great number of manufacturers, colours, textures and finishes that can truly transform the look of your vehicle. It can be hard to navigate through them and find the perfect one for you. In this blog post we talk about different types of vinyl wraps that exist on the market, their benefits and disadvantages, all in hopes to help you find the wrap that’s perfect for your needs.

Vinyl Wrap Finishes

When it comes to finishes, there is a wide selection for you to choose from. The most popular finishes of Vinyl Wraps are Gloss, Gloss Metallic, Matte, Matte Metallic, and Satin.

Gloss

Gloss wraps are by far the most popular type of vinyl for wrapping cars. It is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a paint like finish. They come in a wide range of colours, and look like paint once installed. Solid colours with no sparkles or flakes, they reflect a lot of light and make your car shine even on a gloomy day. Gloss wraps work perfectly for those who are looking for a uniform and coherent look. Luckily, vinyl wrap manufacturers constantly update and increase their library of Gloss Wraps, so that you can stand out even when going for the most popular finish. Gloss Wraps are relatively easy to maintain. You can wax or treat Gloss Wrap with CeramicPro to increase its durability and enhance the colour.

Gloss Metallic

Gloss Metallic wraps are a slightly modified version of Gloss Wraps. When you look at gloss metallic wrap closely, you can notice tiny little metallic flakes, which are added to vinyl during manufacturing process. The effect that flakes create is especially noticeable when you look at the car under direct sunlight. This finish adds more depth to the surface, and replicates the look of metallic paint.

Matte

Matte Wraps are exactly that, – matte. They absorb light, and typically don’t reflect much. Although gaining more popularity, matte wraps are still more rare than their glossy alternatives. Due to matte finish, colours of matte wraps tend to be less vivid and not as pronounced. Because the surface reflects little amount of light, matte wraps tend to accentuate body lines better, and draw more attention to curves. Something to keep in mind when going with matte wraps is that the maintenance is a little different. Matte wraps cannot be waxed or coated with CeramicPro or any other type of sealant, or else they will loose their matte appearance. Matte wraps also tend to show marks and fingerprints easier, so if you are picking a matte wrap, you should be ready to clean your car more frequently. On a positive note, we have noticed that matte wraps have a lower surface energy in comparison to gloss wraps, therefore, water and snow don’t stick to the surface as easily.

Matte Metallic

If you want a metallic look, but can’t stand the gloss finish, – matte metallic is your choice! While still relatively non reflective, matte metallic wraps feature tiny metallic particles, which add an extra depth to the colour of your wrap, making it appear more interesting and dimensional.

Satin

Satin wraps stand somewhere in between gloss and matte wraps. If you can’t decide between gloss or matte, definitely go with a satin finish. It is the best of both worlds. Satin wraps are not as shiny as gloss wraps, but they reflect more light than matte wraps. Satin wraps in a way resemble a look of a satin shirt, making your car look very sophisticated and classy. It is almost as if your car was wrapped in silk. Satin wraps reflect some light, but in a subtle manner, which accentuates its sleek look. The maintenance of satin wrap is also relatively easy, since there is a much lower chance of fingerprints staying on the surface. Similar to gloss wraps, satin wraps can be coated with ceramic solutions or waxed.

Vinyl Wrap Textures

For those looking for something even more unique, vinyl wrap manufacturers have developed a series of textured wraps, with Brushed Metal and Carbon Fibre vinyl being the most common ones.

Carbon Fibre

Carbon Fibre vinyl wraps resemble the look of carbon fibre material, so widely popular among car enthusiasts. There is now an option of grey, black and white carbon fibre. Although it is hard to imagine a whole car wrapped in this material, it is quite popular to wrap mirrors, spoilers or hoods in carbon fibre to create that look without breaking the bank. While installing, carbon fibre has to be handled carefully, as it is easy to disturb the pattern by overstitching the material, or not aligning it properly. There is nothing worse than a poorly installed carbon fibre wrap.

Brushed Metal

Another not so commonly used material, brushed metal wraps have a metallic appearance with added texture, that resembles scraped metal. Brushed metal wraps make for a cool accent pieces, and are available in a limited variety of colours. Unique three dimensional light reflection of brushed wraps creates an expensive look.

Specialty Films Series

Colour Flip Wraps

Recently, vinyl wrap manufacturers came up with a new type of vinyl wraps, – colour flip wraps. These wraps feature not one solid colour, but a combination of multiple colours, that change depending on the angle you look at the car. Colour flip wraps have to be handled very carefully, as they are directional. Depending on the material orientation, different hue will be more or less pronounced. An installer has to keep this nature of material in mind, and instal all pieces unidirectionally. If mishandled, a colour will not be flowing in one direction, and it might look like parts of the car are wrapped in different colours. It is a definite show stopper when installed properly!

Chrome Vinyl Wraps

Chrome vinyl wraps are the most expensive wraps on the market. They are completely reflective, and look like your car is wrapped in glass! Chrome wraps tend to be hard to install, can get scratched easily, and are harder to handle during the installation. If you are going with a chrome wrap, make sure you are dealing with a highly skilled installer who handled chrome wraps before. Chrome wraps also tend to show fingerprints, so you need to spend extra time to make sure your car looks clean. When installed, chrome wraps look absolutely beautiful! Paint Protection Film and CeramicPro are highly recommended to preserve its mirror like finish.

Diamond

Avery recently introduced a new line of finishes for those who are not afraid to stand out. Diamond wraps are gloss wraps with an extreme amount of sparkles! Diamond wraps reflect a lot of light, and sparkles shine in the sunlight making your car turn heads and stop traffic. You might want to wear sunglasses when looking at it on a summer day!

Regardless of what type of vinyl for wrapping cars you pick, we can help you bring your vision to reality! Contact us today, and lets create something beautiful together.

January 30, 2020/by thewrapmaster

What is CeramicPro

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What Is CeramicPro

CeramicPro is a clear liquid nano-ceramic coating that creates an extra protective layer once applied to the surface of your vehicle. When cured, it forms an invisible shield that makes the surface of your car extremely shiny and hydrophobic. It can be applied as a finishing procedure for your Paint, Vinyl Wrap, or Paint Protection Film.

CeramicPro Technology Explained

Once cured, CeramicPro creates a clear glass shield, which has a hardness above 9H. In comparison, a regular clear coat has a hardness between 2H and 4H. CeramicPro nanoparticles fill in the smallest pores in the paint, making the surface shiny, smooth and slick. The glass shield created by it protects the paint from fading and aging due to its UV and anti-oxidization protection.

CeramicPro Benefits

Clients often ask us about the benefits of CeramicPro, and if it is a treatment worth getting. Our answer is it depends on your expectations. If you are looking to extend the life of your paint, increase the shine, make the surface slick and glossy, protect the car from water marks and significantly cut down the maintenance time, – then the answer is definitely yes!

Self-Cleaning:

One of the primary benefits of CeramicPro is that it cuts down the washing time and frequency due to its self-cleaning effect. The treatment significantly reduces surface energy, making it much easier to maintain your car. Dirt, dust, bugs and bird droppings won’t easily stick to the surface of your car, and if they do, is is very easy to simply wipe them off.

Water Resistance:

Decreased surface energy after CeramicPro treatment results in surface becoming extremely hydrophobic. As a result, water and everything it could be mixed with (salt, dirt, debris) will start beading off the surface as opposed to staying on it. As a result, your vehicle will come out clean even when driving on a very rainy day.

Extreme Shine:

After the coating is applied, you will see a difference in appearance of your car. CeramicPro makes the surface of your car shiny and glossy, while also making the colour pop!

UV Protection:

Another great feature of CeramicPro is that it protects the colour of your vehicle from aging and fading. The exterior of your vehicle will remain looking brand new for years, when properly cared for.

CeramicPro and Vinyl Wrap

CeramicPro can be applied not only over paint, but also over Vinyl Wrap. When applied as a finishing procedure after your wrap is complete, it helps to preserve the original colour and finish, and extends the life of your wrap. It will not only protect the condition of your wrap, but will also make it significantly easier to maintain by adding hydrophobic feature to the surface of your wrap.

CeramicPro and Paint Protection Film

CeramicPro also works great when applied over Paint Protection Film. While the two have some similar properties, they are not identical, and do serve different purposes. Paint Protection Film protects your vehicle from scratches and rock chips. CeramicPro, while providing some degree of protection, won’t sustain the same amount of damage as PPF. We often add CeramicPro as an extra procedure on top of PPF, to create an extra glass shield, and prolong the life of your Paint Protection Film. It also adds self cleaning and hydrophobic properties to your PPF.

CeramicPro Application

CeramicPro has a variety of applications, providing you with a solution not only for your exterior, but for the whole vehicle.

Glass

CeramicPro Rain can be applied to all glass surfaces of your vehicle. It allows water to roll off glass, drastically increasing visibility. It keeps glass cleaner for longer. Prevents icing due to lower surface energy. Fills scratches and swirl marks. CeramicPro Rain makes it significantly easier to drive in the rain, as water simply rolls off glass.

Interior

CeramicPro is also great for the interior of your car. It repels liquids, protecting your seats from accidental spills. Protects the colour from fading. Minimizes aging of leather. Prevents seats from stains, and stops dye transfer from your clothes onto the seats. It comes especially handy when the interior of your car is light in colour.

Wheels

CeramicPro, when applied to wheels and callipers, reduces the amount of dirt and dust that typically accumulate in these areas.

CeramicPro Packages

We offer 3 CeramicPro Packages based on your needs and expectations.

Gold Package consists of 4 layers of Ceramic Pro 9H applied to the vehicle’s paint, providing permanent protection with a lifetime warranty.

Silver Package includes 1 layer of Ceramic Pro 9H applied over the vehicle’s paint, providing protection from the elements and a 5 year warranty.

Bronze Package consists of 1 layer of Ceramic Pro Top Coat applied over the vehicle’s paint. This coating protects against light scratching and provides a beautiful glossy finish with a 2 year warranty.

All three packages come with an additional layer of protection is added to exposed areas including windshield and wheels.

Let us know what level of protection you’re looking for, and we will find the best package for your needs!

What It Doesn’t do

It is important to know that CeramicPro is not a solution to protect your vehicle from major scratches or rock chips. It can protect the exterior of your car from minor scratches, however Paint Protection Film is a better solution for someone looking for a higher level of surface protection.

December 6, 2019/by thewrapmaster

How to Clean Your Car for a Vinyl Wrap

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How to Clean Your Car for a Vinyl Wrap.

Clean car is essential for a great looking wrap. A multi-stage washing process must be performed in order to ensure the surface is well prepared. In this blog post we outline how to properly clean your car for a vinyl wrap job.

Step 1: General Wash.

The very first step in preparation for Vinyl Installation is a general wash. This step helps to get rid of any loose contaminants, and is performed outside. First, the car is thoroughly rinsed with water. Second, soap and water solution is applied to the surface of the car, and the car is being washed with microfibre towels. We always recommend using microfibre towels, since they won’t scratch or damage the paint. Also, aim for a soap with a neutral pH balance. High pH balance may lead to corrosion, and low pH balance tends to damage the surface. The process is finished with another thorough rinse to flush the soap residue and get the car ready for the next step.

Step 2: Degreasing.

After the general wash is performed, and the car is free of loose contaminants, it is time for a more thorough cleaning. In this next step the car is moved inside the shop. We then use isopropyl alcohol to remove oils and grease from the surface of the car. Extra attention is needed for panel edges and corners. This step removes excessive soap residue, as well as oils that lower surface energy of the car. Since vinyl is under some tension on edges and corners, it is crucial to pay special attention to the cleanliness of those areas to ensure vinyl sticks properly, and to avoid lifting off of the material.

Step 3: Clay Bar.

After the surface of the car is completely free of loose contaminants and grease, we move on to clay bar. Clay bar helps to further clean the surface of the car and gets rid of any particles stuck on the surface. This is especially common on lower sections of the car and close to the wheels, where the car gets the most exposure to dirt. Clay bar is also essential to ensure the complete smoothness of the surface. We always recommend to use a soap solution to allow clay bar to glide better.

Step 4: Isopropyl Wipedown.

In this final step we wipe the whole car with more Isopropyl Alcohol. This step is needed to remove all the soapy residue and also helps to increase the surface energy.

As you can see, it is a multi-step process that must be performed prior to any Vinyl Wrap Installation. This cleaning process ensures the surface of the car is ready for a wrap, and helps to avoid any installation related issues and mistakes.

November 21, 2019/by thewrapmaster