Car wrapping explained: a new colour for your car
Fancy a different colour for your car without having it fully resprayed? Or do you want to make your van recognisable with your logo? Then car wrapping may be for you. With a wrap you give your car a new look while protecting the original paint at the same time. In this article, XCS Automotive in Merchtem explains what wrapping is, what is possible and what to look out for.
What is car wrapping?
With car wrapping, your car's bodywork is covered with a thin, flexible film. The film is carefully laid over the panels and finished around the edges and in the seams. The result looks like a new coat of paint, but the original paint is preserved underneath.
You can have the whole car wrapped, or just parts, such as the roof, the mirror caps, the bonnet or trim strips.
What is possible?
A new colour
Film comes in countless colours and in different finishes: gloss, matte, satin or with a special effect. That lets you choose a look that would be difficult or expensive to achieve with paint.
Accents
A black roof, black mirror caps or covering chrome parts give your car a sportier look, without wrapping the whole car.
Lettering and advertising
For commercial vehicles, film is a popular way to apply your logo, contact details or full advertising. Your van becomes a moving billboard.
Protection
There is also transparent film that protects the paint without changing the colour, for example in places exposed to a lot of stone chips. Feel free to ask us what is possible for your car.
The benefits of a wrap
- New colour, original paint protected: with a wrap you give your car a new look without changing the original paint.
- Protection of the original paint: the film protects the paint underneath against light scratches, dirt and the effects of the sun.
- Reversible: the film can be removed later, revealing the original colour again.
- Choice: colours and finishes that are rare or expensive in paint.
What should you look out for?
The condition of the paint
Film follows the shape of the surface beneath. Dents, rust or peeling paint show through the film and can affect the result and adhesion. So have any damage repaired first. For damage repair we work with Carrosserie Bury.
Craftsmanship
A good wrap stands or falls with the preparation and finishing: thorough cleaning, the right film, neat edges and seams. That is why we work exclusively with professional detailers.
Care
Preferably wash a wrapped car by hand, with a mild shampoo. Avoid using pressure washers close to the film edges and aggressive brushes. Matte film needs extra attention. Do not use wax or polish intended for gloss paint.
Removal
If you want to remove the film later, have that done by a professional too. That way you avoid adhesive residue or damage to the paint.
Does a colour change need to be reported?
If you change the colour of your car completely, find out in advance which formalities apply, for example with your insurer. If in doubt, the official government information applies.
Wrapping or coating?
Wrapping and coating are different treatments. A coating is a hard, smooth protective layer on the paint that preserves the shine and makes dirt stick less, but does not change the colour. A wrap changes the colour and protects the paint with a film. Read more on our page detailing, coating and wrapping.
Commercial vehicles
Want to have your van lettered or wrapped? Ask us what is possible. At the same time, think about the equipment you need, such as a load area fit-out, a tow bar or extra lighting. See the options on our page van equipment. If you have several vehicles, also read our page fleet and company vehicles.
Wrapping at XCS
With a wrap you give your car a new colour or finish, while protecting the original paint at the same time. We work exclusively with professional detailers. The price depends on your vehicle and the chosen film and finish. You receive a clear, tailored quote in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Does a wrap damage my paint?
On paint in good condition, the film protects the paint underneath. Do have it applied and removed by a professional.
Can I have just part of my car wrapped?
Yes. For example the roof, the mirror caps or the bonnet.
How much does a wrap cost?
That depends on your vehicle, the film and the finish. You receive a tailored quote.
Can I take a wrapped car through the car wash?
Hand washing is the best choice. Avoid aggressive brushes and pressure washers close to the edges.
Have your car wrapped?
Book your appointment online via make an appointment or call Jorne on 0471 46 40 17 or Quinten on 0470 56 61 21. You will find us at Stoofstraat 43 in Merchtem, open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm and on Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Anywhere in Merchtem, we collect your car and bring it back free of charge.