Car Wrapping in Nigeria: Is it Better Than Repainting Your Car?

There are many ways to switch up your car’s dull or damaged exterior look. Before now, fixing a car’s bad paint meant you had to repaint. But in the last few years, vinyl wraps have become a popular alternative many drivers use instead of changing car paint. Most commercial vehicles you see with company logos are mostly wraps and are not done with paints. 

Now, vehicle wrapping has become affordable for the average driver. Some use wrap technology for effects like mirror or matte finishes or wild graphic designs, but solid-colour vinyl wraps are available, too. 

Car Wrap Vs. Painting: When Is A Car Wrap Better?

Regarding doing a fast job, wraps are better than car paint. Paint jobs require prep time—sanding, primer, curing, and coat application—and drying time for the paint itself. A good, thorough paint job in Nigeria can leave your car in the shop for weeks, even months. Depending on the size of your vehicle, a wrap can be done from start to finish in a few days, and it’s out of the shop.

Care and maintenance after is another strong point regarding wraps. To keep the wrap longer, clean it with at least a weekly wash and promptly attend to any bugs, tree sap, or other stains—but waxing is never needed.

Car Wrap Vs. Painting: When Is Paint Better?

You can’t wrap a car with dents or peeling paint. Any physical imperfection underneath the car shows in the vinyl wrap, and the wrap job will not be smooth. It means the work necessary before a paint job (sanding, filling, rust removal) must be done before wrapping a vehicle.

A car wrap lasts almost five years, while a good paint job will shine for decades when it’s taken care of. And although you won’t have to wax the wrap or tend to it like the paint, an automated car wash with brushes or a power washer can tear the vinyl wrap. Additionally, parking the vehicle outdoors in direct sunlight will eventually result in UV rays fading and degrading the wrap.

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Wrapping is a great way to change the colour of a car you plan to keep. But car paint does a better job than car wraps. They last longer, even though they take time to be completed.  

Cost of Wrapping a Car in Nigeria

The cost of wrapping a car in Nigeria can vary depending on several factors such as the type of material used for the wrap, the size of the car, and the complexity of the design.

However, as a rough estimate, a full wrap for a small to medium-sized car using vinyl wrap can cost between ₦200,000 to ₦400,000. For larger cars, the cost can range from ₦350,000 to ₦500,000 or more. It’s important to note that the cost can also vary depending on the location and the reputation of the car wrapping company.

How Long Does It Take To Wrap A Car

The time it takes to wrap a car can vary depending on several factors such as the size and complexity of the design, the skill level of the installer, and the condition of the vehicle. As a rough estimate, a standard full car wrap can take anywhere from 1 to 3 days to complete, assuming the car is clean and in good condition, and the installer has the necessary skills and tools to complete the job efficiently.

However, if the design is more complex, involves custom graphics or requires more intricate cutting and installation, the time needed for the wrap to be completed may increase significantly.

Additionally, if the car requires extensive cleaning or repairs before the wrap can be applied, this can also add to the total time needed for the installation. It’s important to discuss the timeline for the project with the installer beforehand to get a more accurate estimate based on the specific needs of your vehicle and design.

Type of Car wrapping in Nigeria

Car wrapping has become increasingly popular in Nigeria as a way to personalize and protect a vehicle. There are several types of car wrapping materials and techniques available in Nigeria, including:

1. Vinyl Wrapping: This is the most popular type of car wrapping in Nigeria. It involves applying a vinyl film over the car’s paintwork to change its colour or add designs. Vinyl wrapping protects the car’s original paint from scratches and fading, and it is removable without damaging the paint.
2. Matte Wrapping: Matte wraps give the car a sleek and sophisticated look. The matte finish is popular among car enthusiasts who want to make a statement.
3. Glossy Wrapping: Glossy wraps have a shiny, reflective finish and are popular among car owners who want to make their cars stand out.
4. Chrome Wrapping: This type of wrapping adds a metallic finish to the car, giving it a shiny and reflective appearance.
5. Satin Wrapping: Satin wrapping is similar to matte wrapping, but it has a slightly shiny finish that adds depth to the car’s colour.
6. Carbon Fiber Wrapping: Carbon fibre wrapping mimics the look of real carbon fibre and is popular among car enthusiasts who want a high-tech and modern look.

There are several types of car wrapping materials and techniques available in Nigeria, and car owners can choose the one that suits their preferences and budget.

Conclusion 

Before deciding to go for a car wrap instead of a car repainting, consider the pros and cons of both of them. Mainly, car repaints cost more and take longer, but they last longer than car wraps. So, always make a smart decision when it comes to this. Only wrap a car you might be doing away within a few years.