Car Wrapping: Partial or Full?

Car wraps are a brilliant way to personalise your car, protect your paintwork, and even advertise your business. 

Understanding the Basics

A full car wrap, as the name suggests, covers the entire painted surface of your vehicle. This provides a complete colour change or design application, giving your car a new look. 

A partial wrap, on the other hand, covers only a portion of your vehicle, perhaps the bonnet, doors, or roof. This option allows for targeted design elements and is often a more cost-effective solution.

Full Car Wraps

A full car wrap in vinyl is like giving your vehicle brand-new skin. It's perfect if you want to completely change the colour of your car without the expense of a repaint. You might want to switch from a classic silver to a bold matte black, or perhaps you fancy a unique, custom-designed graphic covering every inch of your vehicle.

The process involves applying a high-quality vinyl film to every painted surface, including bumpers, mirrors, and door handles. The vinyl acts as a protective layer, shielding your original paint from scratches, stone chips, and UV damage. This means your car’s resale value could be preserved, which is always a bonus.

One of the big draws of a full wrap is the sheer level of customisation available. You can choose from so many colours, finishes (like gloss, matte, or satin), and textures (such as carbon fibre). 

If you’re running a business, a full wrap provides a fantastic platform for advertising. You can display your company logo, contact details, and promotional messages across the entire vehicle, creating a mobile billboard.

Full wraps typically require more time and materials, so they tend to be pricier than partial wraps. Also, if your original paintwork is damaged, the imperfections may be visible through the vinyl. A good preparation process is therefore important.

Partial Car Wraps

These are a great option if you want to add a bit of personality to your car without completely changing its appearance. You might choose to wrap the bonnet with a racing stripe, add a custom graphic to the doors, or apply a protective film to the roof.

Partial wraps are often used for advertising purposes as well. You can place your company logo and contact details on the side doors or rear window, creating a subtle yet effective mobile advertisement. This is a popular choice for small businesses looking to promote their services locally.

Partial wraps are generally more affordable than full wraps, making them a budget-friendly option. They also require less time to install, so you’ll be back on the road sooner. Because you’re only covering a portion of your vehicle, you have greater flexibility in terms of design.\

 You can mix and match colours and finishes to create a unique look that suits your style.

Of course, partial wraps do have some limitations. Because they don’t cover the entire vehicle, there might be a slight colour difference between the wrapped and unwrapped areas, especially if your car’s paint has faded over time. Getting a good colour match is therefore vital.

Making the Right Choice

So, how do you decide between a partial and full wrap? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. 

Budget

Cost is often a significant factor in decision-making. Partial wraps are generally more affordable, making them a great option if you’re on a tight budget. Full wraps, while offering a more comprehensive transformation, require a larger financial outlay.

Goals

What are you hoping to achieve with your car wrap? If you want to completely change the colour of your vehicle or create a bold, eye-catching design, a full wrap is the way to go. If you’re looking to add a bit of personality or promote your business, a partial wrap might be sufficient.

Condition

The condition of your car’s paintwork can also influence your decision. If your paint is in good condition, you can opt for either a partial or full wrap. If your paint is damaged, a full wrap might be necessary to conceal the imperfections.

Evaluate Your Design Preferences

Do you prefer a subtle, understated look, or do you want to make a bold statement? Partial wraps offer greater flexibility in terms of design, allowing you to mix and match colours and finishes. Full wraps provide a blank canvas for a complete transformation.

Weigh Up Installation Time

Full wraps take longer to install than partial wraps. If you need your car back on the road quickly, a partial wrap might be the better option.

Working with Professionals

No matter which option you choose, it's important to work with experienced professionals. A reputable wrapping company will use high-quality materials and employ skilled technicians to ensure a flawless finish. They can also provide advice on design, colour matching, and maintenance.

Finding a Reliable Wrapping Company

When selecting a wrapping company, look for one with a good reputation and plenty of positive reviews. Ask to see examples of their previous work, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good company will be happy to answer your queries and provide expert advice.

Understanding the Wrapping Process

Before you commit to a wrap, make sure you understand the process involved. A reputable company will explain the steps involved, from design and preparation to installation and aftercare. They should also provide a warranty or guarantee on their work.

Maintaining Your Car Wrap

To keep your car wrap looking its best, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, and always hand-wash your vehicle. Regular maintenance will help to prolong the life of your wrap and keep it looking fantastic.

Choosing between a partial and full car wrap is a personal decision. Both options offer unique benefits and can transform the look of your vehicle. Get in touch with us today and let us know your make and model of car and the type of car wrap you think would suit you.