We recently had an enquiry that made us smile and then quietly close the laptop. Without going into detail, it was one of those not-even-passive aggressive messages that tells you more about the sender than the project. It was a useful reminder: a great wrap can transform a surface but not every surface can be wrapped. Sometimes the right answer for your job is “Yes”, sometimes it’s “No” and occasionally it’s “Have you considered spray painting?”
That little story matters because it shows why the surface and the client expectations are as important as the graphics. A great wrap can transform a surface, but vinyl is not a miracle solution for everything. Here is the useful bit: what can be wrapped, what we avoid and a short checklist so you know what to send us.
Why the surface matters
Vinyl needs a compatible surface, proper preparation and the right film. Get those three things right and a wrap will look brilliant and last. Get them wrong and it will lift, bubble and fail, which costs time and money. And, quite possibly, a spike in our blood pressure!
What can be happily wrapped:
· Glass and glazed shopfronts. With the correct perforated or opaque films, glass is a brilliant canvas for branding and privacy.
· Flat or gently curved composite panels. ACM and dibond panels are stable when their finish is sound.
· Sealed and properly painted timber. Timber must be smooth, sealed and free of loose fibres.
· Certain plastics. ABS and painted PVC are usually fine after correct preparation. Polypropylene, polyethylene and similar low surface energy plastics typically need a primer or specialist system.
· Specialist floors. Floor films exist for retail and events but must have the right slip rating and be specified separately.
· Cars. Sound painted panels using cast conformable film are the usual choice for compound curves. NOTE: We don’t do car wrapping – we have enough on our books with Premier League football clubs and the like – but we thought we’d add it in as an example.
What we avoid
· Chalky, flaking or peeling paint that will not hold film.
· Highly textured surfaces such as brick, pebble dash or rough render that do not provide a continuous plane to bond to.
· Fresh paint that has not fully cured. Cure times vary with paint type and process, so check the paint maker’s guidance and perform a tack test.
· Rusty or corroded metal that has not been treated.
· Surfaces contaminated with silicone, wax or dressing that repel adhesives.
· Areas that flex, move or heat excessively such as hinges, continuous seals or close to industrial heat sources.
· Low surface energy plastics unless treated with a primer or specialist system.
Quick practical checklist
If you’re looking for a vinyl wrapping solution and you’re unsure if the surface is suitable, here’s what to do:
· Send clear photos including close ups, and tell us the substrate.
· Tell us if the surface was recently painted, powder coated or treated and give the date if you can.
· If you clean beforehand, use mild detergent and avoid silicone-based polishes.
· Be ready to consider spray painted panels, printed trays or magnetic signs as alternatives.
Maintenance and lifespan
Lifespan depends on film quality, installation and exposure. High quality cast films often last several years, and commercial wraps commonly perform for about three to seven years in real use. Regular gentle cleaning and prompt repairs will extend life.
If you are not sure, send photos and a few details and we will give you a straight answer. No fuss, no time-wasting and no need for any rage-filled emails! For more information about what we do, contact us here.