Risks of Vinyl Installation on Old Vehicles

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Vehicle Decals

What is Vinyl?
Vinyl is a man-made plastic commonly used to make records and vehicle wraps. Vinyl is a flexible and waterproof material that can easily bend around edges and curves. Additionally, vinyl installation is more cost-effective than repainting a car and easily installed and removed.

Reasons why older vehicles are risky to install vinyl on:

  • Less Durability and Longevity
  • Air Pockets
  • Vinyl Can’t Fix a Rough Paint Job

Less Durability and Longevity
The way that vinyl works on cars is that it binds with the paint layer of the vehicle. This is similar to how Velcro hooks attach to the loops. Vinyl creates a strong bond between itself and the paint of the car. While the paint on automobiles can last for 10 or more years, factors such as weathering, paint quality, and accidents can wear it down (PTC). Therefore, the durability of the vinyl installation highly depends on the condition of the vehicle.

Vinyl Can’t Fix a Rough Paint Job
Vinyl is the best solution for changing a vehicle’s appearance. However, it will not cover up scratches and bumps in the paint. Older cars are bound to have some nicks and scratches in the paint. Depending on the design and condition of the vehicle, the vinyl can exemplify the imperfections in the paint. 

Air Pockets
Air Pockets are little bubbles in the wrap. Despite a good installation job, air pockets can occur afterward. Because car wrap binds to the paint of the vehicle, older vehicles might have chipped paint. Chipping paint occurs when the paint loses its grip on the metal surface of the car. As a result, the vinyl will form pockets of trapped air under the vinyl. 

Conclusion
Take the condition of your vehicle into consideration before you buy and install vinyl. 

Installation

At ALTIUS, we print and install custom high-quality vinyl that lasts 5-7 years. We have a dedicated team of professionals that can design, print, and install vinyl. Visit our website at altiusgraphics.com or call (832)500-5160 to get a quote today!

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