Using More than One Type of Material for Vehicle Wraps

We’ve had several installers ask us if it’s ok to use more than one type of material for their vehicle wrap. Immediately our answer is no. The reason for this is that between two different materials, there is a possibility that the colors won’t match up correctly.

It’s not common to use more than one type of material when wrapping a vehicle, unless of course you’re doing a full coverage wrap and window perf is necessary. In this case, the window perf will naturally be a slightly different color than the rest of the wrap, however it shouldn’t be a drastic difference. If you’re noticing that there is a huge color shift between window perf and the rest of the wrap, you might want to consider the brand of material you are using.  3M™ for example, has gone through multiple tests to ensure that the color quality is maintained and similar from window perforation to 380 or 180.

Another reference we were given where two materials are used in a case of wrapping the bumper of a vehicle with one material and the rest of the car with another. Really, there isn’t a reason where this would be better. Although 380 doesn’t require Primer 94 before installation and its adhesion qualities are great for complex curves, it can still be used for the entire vehicle wrap. We see the issue being more around cost since 380 is about 30 percent more expensive than 180 and if the customer only has so much to spend, the installer may want to give them the best of both worlds without going over budget.

Our suggestion in this case would be to choose one material. While 180 does require primer before installation, it’s still a great material that has the same warranty as 380 does. However, if your customer is looking for ultimate quality or needs the wrap completed in a tight deadline you might sell them the 380 and explain why there is a price difference. You never know, maybe the customer will see the price benefit?

Moral of the story is- don’t use more than one type of material when wrapping a vehicle. It will cause more issues with color and quality than you want to run into. Second tid-bit, we highly recommend using 3M materials for your vehicle wraps as the warranty can’t be beat and because of the material quality, there isn’t a need to worry about using more than one type of vinyl material during a vehicle wrap.

We’re always here to help answer your questions. Visit our Facebook page or LinkedIn page, where a network of installers is always on hand to provide advice.