fleet wraps Archives - Installed Graphics

A Revolution in Car Wraps

June 14, 2024

Exploring the 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080: A Revolution in Car Wraps

Car enthusiasts and professional detailers alike know that transforming the look of a vehicle can be both an art and a science. The 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 offers an innovative solution that combines cutting-edge technology with a vibrant palette of colors, enabling users to achieve stunning visual results with ease. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the unique features of the 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 and explore the extensive range of colors available to suit every style and preference.

Why Choose 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080?

3M has long been a leader in the automotive film industry, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. The Wrap Film Series 2080 is no exception, boasting several key benefits:

Superior Conformability and Flexibility
- The 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 is engineered to conform to the most complex curves and contours of a vehicle, ensuring a smooth and seamless application. This makes it ideal for intricate designs and detailed work.
Durability and Longevity
- Designed to withstand the elements, the 2080 series offers excellent resistance to UV rays, moisture, and abrasions. This ensures that your car’s new look will stay vibrant and intact for years to come.
Innovative Protective Layer
- One of the standout features of the 2080 series is its unique protective film layer, which guards against scratches and handling marks during installation. This layer can be easily removed after application, revealing a pristine finish.
Easy Installation and Removal
- Thanks to 3M’s advanced adhesive technology, the Wrap Film Series 2080 allows for repositioning during application, reducing the risk of bubbles and wrinkles. Additionally, it can be removed cleanly without damaging the underlying paint, making it a great option for both temporary and permanent applications.

A Kaleidoscope of Colors

One of the most exciting aspects of the 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 is the extensive range of colors and finishes available. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or add a subtle touch of elegance, there’s a color for every taste. Here are some of the standout options:

Gloss Colors
1. Gloss Blue Fire: A vibrant and eye-catching shade that adds a pop of color.
2. Gloss Wicked: A deep, mysterious purple that commands attention.
3. Gloss White Gold Sparkle: Adds a touch of shimmer and sophistication.
Matte Colors
1. Matte Black: A classic choice for a sleek, modern look.
2. Matte Military Green: Perfect for an edgy, rugged appearance.
3. Matte Indigo: A unique blue hue that offers a softer alternative to gloss finishes.
Satin Colors
1. Satin Pearl White: A luxurious finish that exudes elegance.
2. Satin Key West: A calming, tropical blue-green that brings a sense of tranquility.
3. Satin Smoldering Red: A rich, fiery red that makes a bold statement.
Textured and Special Effects
1. Carbon Fiber Black: Offers a high-tech, textured look that mimics real carbon fiber.
2. Brushed Steel: Provides a metallic, industrial aesthetic.
3. Shadow Military Green: Combines a unique texture with a subdued, military-inspired color.

Conclusion

The 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 stands out as a premier choice for car wraps, offering unparalleled quality, durability, and ease of use. With a broad spectrum of colors and finishes to choose from, you can customize your vehicle to reflect your personal style and make a lasting impression on the road. Whether you’re a professional installer or a DIY enthusiast, the 2080 series promises to deliver exceptional results that will turn heads and inspire awe.

Explore the endless possibilities with the 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 and discover the perfect hue for your next automotive masterpiece.

The Power of Vehicle Branding: Why You Should Wrap Your Company Vehicle

by Justin Sims

May 17, 2024

Posted in Graphic Installation

Introduction

In today’s competitive business landscape, standing out is more important than ever. One of the most effective yet often overlooked marketing strategies is wrapping your company vehicle with your brand. A branded vehicle wrap transforms your car into a mobile billboard, offering numerous benefits that traditional advertising methods simply can’t match. In this post, we’ll explore the top reasons why you should consider wrapping your company vehicle with your brand and how it can help drive your business forward.

1. Unmatched Visibility

A vehicle wrap ensures your brand is seen by thousands of potential customers daily. Whether you’re parked in a busy shopping center, driving through urban areas, or simply stuck in traffic, your wrapped car catches the eyes of passersby. This constant visibility keeps your brand top-of-mind, increasing the likelihood of attracting new customers.

2. Cost-Effective Advertising

Compared to traditional advertising methods like billboards, TV ads, or print media, vehicle wraps offer a high return on investment. The initial cost of wrapping your company car is a one-time expense, but the wrap can last for several years with proper care. This means you get continuous advertising without the recurring costs associated with other forms of media.

3. Local Targeting

One of the biggest advantages of vehicle wraps is their ability to target local audiences. Your company car travels through the areas where your potential customers live, work, and shop. This localized exposure is particularly beneficial for small businesses looking to build a strong presence in their community.

4. Professional Appearance

A professionally wrapped company car enhances your brand’s image and credibility. It shows that you take your business seriously and are willing to invest in high-quality marketing. A well-designed wrap conveys professionalism and attention to detail, which can positively influence potential customers’ perception of your brand.

5. Protection for Your Vehicle

In addition to marketing benefits, vehicle wraps provide a protective layer for your car’s paintwork. The vinyl wrap shields the original paint from scratches, dings, and UV damage, helping to preserve the car’s resale value. When it’s time to remove the wrap, the paint underneath remains in excellent condition.

6. Customizable and Versatile

Vehicle wraps are highly customizable, allowing you to create a design that perfectly aligns with your brand identity. You can incorporate your logo, brand colors, contact information, and any other elements that represent your business. Additionally, wraps are versatile and can be applied to various types of vehicles, from cars and vans to trucks and trailers.

7. Non-Intrusive Advertising

Unlike traditional advertising that can sometimes feel invasive (think pop-up ads or telemarketing calls), vehicle wraps are a passive form of advertising. They don’t interrupt or annoy potential customers but still manage to capture their attention. This non-intrusive nature makes people more receptive to your brand message.

8. Measurable Impact

The impact of your vehicle wrap can be measured through various methods. You can track the number of impressions using GPS tracking and mileage logs, or monitor customer inquiries and sales spikes following the introduction of your branded vehicle. This data helps you gauge the effectiveness of your investment and refine your marketing strategies accordingly.

Conclusion

Wrapping your company car with your brand is a powerful and cost-effective marketing tool that offers unparalleled visibility and local targeting. It not only enhances your brand’s image but also protects your vehicle and provides a customizable platform for your marketing message. By investing in a vehicle wrap, you can drive your business forward, literally and figuratively, while making a lasting impression on your potential customers.

Choosing Between Vehicle Lettering, Partial Wraps, and Full Wraps

by Justin Sims

April 19, 2024

Posted in Graphic Installation

There are plenty of reasons to consider adding advertising to your car, truck, trailer, or even your bus, boat, motorcycle, or aircraft!

According to a study by 3M, fleet graphics are the most cost-effective outdoor advertising medium available, delivering greater value on a cost-per-thousand impressions basis than television, magazines, newspapers, prime-time television, radio, and outdoor billboards!

Another study found that vehicle lettering, car wraps, and similar graphics are as effective as they are economical. Their research showed that:

97% of survey respondents recalled the vehicle graphic on the truck.
98% thought the vehicle ads created a positive image of the advertiser.
96% believed fleet graphics had more impact than billboards.
One of the attractive features of vehicle graphics is their flexibility. They allow you to choose from a range of options depending on your business needs and marketing budget. Consider the following three primary vehicle graphic options:

Vehicle Lettering: This is the simplest and most economical choice. Vinyl letters and numerals can be applied to your vehicle. Use this option if your vehicles are not the primary promotional medium for your business but complement other advertising methods well. Most marketers use vehicle lettering to spell out their company name, slogan, phone number, address, and web address. These letters can be designed, fabricated, and installed quickly. They are often placed over side and rear windows for good contrast and excellent readability.
Partial Vehicle Wraps: These wraps cover part of your vehicle with a promotional message. They offer a higher visual impact than vehicle lettering but are less expensive than full wraps. They are a great option if your vehicles are extensively used for sales, service, or delivery calls.
Full Vehicle Wraps: These wraps deliver maximum visual impact by covering all four sides of your vehicle, and may even extend to the roof and bumpers. They are more expensive but are still less costly than a custom paint job. Full wraps are often used by businesses whose vehicles are their main option for promotions, such as carpet cleaning, HVAC, and florist vans. They can also provide a protective layer to your vehicle’s finish. Full vehicle wraps are also readily removable, making them suitable for leased vehicles or promotional purposes during events. Some companies even extend their designs to side and rear windows using perforated window graphics for additional visibility.

In conclusion, vehicle graphics offer a cost-effective and impactful way to promote your business, with options to suit various budgets and marketing needs.

Common Errors in Wrapping and How to Prevent Them

by Justin Sims

March 4, 2024

Posted in Graphic Installation

Few things are as frustrating and costly in the wrapping industry as having a $5,000 project returned to the shop due to failures. You’ve invested significant time, energy, and resources into creating the wrap, only to deal with an unhappy customer complaining about curling edges or pulling recesses. Unfortunately, failure may have been ingrained into your wrap from the start if you didn’t consider the entire process thoroughly.

ISSUE: Inaccurate or poorly-considered design

Incorrect sizing can force installers to stretch or manipulate the film excessively. Have you considered compound curves or transitions from sides? Have you allowed for extra printing around the perimeter of each side to give installers flexibility? Have you anticipated that hard lines may not align well running up, over, and around corners? Have you provided enough film for the installers to work with?
Avoid saving bits of film and ink to save costs, as this may ruin the project by putting installers in difficult situations.
Relying solely on digital vehicle templates can lead to unforeseen issues. While modern vehicle templating is generally accurate, slight changes to body styles, hardware add-ons, sports packages, etc., can significantly impact your wrap design. It’s a good practice to obtain straight-on images combined with detailed and accurate measurements of the vehicle to double-check the template.

SOLUTION: Make sure your designers are communicating with your installers and vice- versa. A little discussion about real-world scenarios might just save you from future headaches.

ISSUE: Chemistry and all its glory

All commonly used wrap printing technologies require curing or “outgassing.” Even latex inks come with a disclaimer warning printers to allow some time for the inks to cure before laminating. Solvent and eco-solvent inks are the biggest culprits of improper outgassing problems. The printing process uses solvent-based ink, which often requires 24 to 48 hours to cure, especially for highly saturated colors like Rich Black, which needs a lot of ink, resulting in a lot of solvent being dropped onto the film. Rushing the lamination time will trap these solvents. You cannot trick physics, so the trapped solvents will be forced to move through the path of least resistance, which unfortunately is right through the vinyl and into the adhesive. This causes the solvents to break down the glue, collapse the air-egress channels, and damage the repositionability properties of most modern wrapping films. Additionally, the solvents will break down the chemical properties of the adhesive and often create a tacky, more aggressive initial bond.
Improper curing will create an unpleasant situation that experienced installers should immediately reject. An experienced subcontracted installer, upon being hit in the face with solvent fumes as they open the box, will immediately report the situation and abstain from beginning the project.

In short, the warranty has already been compromised, the glue has been damaged, and installers will have no desire to be blamed for a faulty product that is out of their control.

SOLUTION: Follow the film manufacturer’s guidelines for proper curing time before laminating. Plan your printing schedule accordingly. For example, if you need to ship prints by the end of the day on Friday, ensure that printing is completed by Tuesday. This allows for the curing period on Wednesday and Thursday, with lamination, trimming, and boxing done on Friday. Proper, unrushed planning will help you avoid this pitfall.

ISSUE: Contaminated surfaces

Improper cleaning of wrapped surfaces is a recipe for failure. A new vehicle often has surface contaminants from the factory that help preserve the paint. These must be removed using a cleaner like Xylene or PrepSol, following proper health and safety guidelines.
An older vehicle accumulates road grime, salt, dust, and dirt over time. Most shops require clients to wash their vehicles thoroughly without waxes, sealers, or clear coats. Even a freshly washed vehicle needs thorough cleaning, including a final hand-wiping with 70% isopropyl alcohol. The wet/dry method is effective, where a wet rag loosens surface contaminants and a dry rag removes them. Simply using a wet or sprayed alcohol approach can swirl contaminants and leave issues behind.
Attention to detail is crucial. Dirt can collect in cracks, crevices, alongside panels, under seals, etc. It’s essential to clean these areas thoroughly for proper adhesion.

SOLUTION: To prevent wrap failures, it is absolutely essential to thoroughly and correctly clean surfaces.

ISSUE: Failure to dry fit the project

Inexperienced installers often make the mistake of skipping the dry-fitting step and proceeding directly to laying the new wrap. However, this can lead to wrapping failures. Without double-checking the sizes and positions of the graphic elements, installers risk creating issues. For example, aligning a panel too far to the rear may require overstretching an element farther forward to compensate.

SOLUTION: Organizing and dry-fitting all wrap elements allows you to anticipate and address potential issues before they become irreparable.

ISSUE: Oh so much overstretching!

Many installers tend to overestimate the stretchability of vinyl films when faced with challenging areas. While some stretch is possible, it is wiser to use proper installation techniques that minimize stretching. Heating the film excessively to pull it around curves or into recessed areas may seem effective initially, but it often leads to overstretching and subsequent failures. This can manifest as curled edges, wrinkles, and areas popping back out within days.
Consider this: a vinyl wrap consists of two primary layers, the film itself and the underlying adhesive. Stretching the film also stretches the adhesive, causing both layers to thin out. A 50% thinner adhesive layer means 50% less glue, reducing its bonding ability. Combining physical stress on the film with less adhesive to hold it in place creates conditions ripe for failure.

SOLUTION: Instead of relying on heat as a quick fix, reserve its use for the final finishing touches. Learn and practice “zero stretch” techniques.

ISSUE: Failure to post-heat

Post-heating involves applying the correct amount of additional heat to a completed installation, as specified by the manufacturer. This process achieves several important goals:
- It helps the film set into its final position.
- It can remove minor micro-scratches from the surface and restore the film’s gloss.
- During the installation and trimming of a wrap, the adhesive layer may slightly retract from the edges, leaving a small lip with no glue. Post-heating encourages the glue to flow back to the edges for a proper bond.

SOLUTION: Using a heat gun with adjustable heat or a propane torch, bring all surfaces up to the manufacturer’s specified temperature to set the film. A handheld infrared temperature reader/gun is very useful for identifying and controlling temperatures precisely. Consider this as giving your wrap a finishing touch.

Paying attention to these aspects of a wrap project will help predict and avoid most wrap failures. Preventing wrap failures contributes to keeping your clients happy, maintaining high morale among your designers and installers, and improving your bottom line.

Feed Your Advertising!

by Justin Sims

January 8, 2024

Posted in Graphic Installation

The rise of the food truck industry is happening at a frantic pace. Branding and re-branding has become a major business for Installed Graphics, Inc. Here are several things that have contributed to it:

Affordability: Food trucks offer freshly prepared food at lower prices than traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. This affordability makes them attractive to a broad range of customers.

Flexibility: Food trucks can quickly adapt to changing trends and consumer preferences. They can be wrapped and re-wrapped to fit today’s trends.

Accessibility: Food trucks can go to where the customers are, and with auxilary signage, can make their presence known immediately.

Social Media and Technology: The advent of social media has played a significant role in the success of food trucks. Many trucks use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to announce their locations, share daily specials, and engage with their customers. That’s why a freshly wrapped food truck has such social media appeal!

Low Overheads: Operating a food truck typically involves lower overhead costs than running a traditional restaurant. Also, it is a traveling adverstisement. There’s no need for expensive real estate, dining space, or extensive staffing. This allows food truck owners to invest more in quality ingredients and maintain competitive pricing, while presenting a professionally wrapped vehicle that advertises itself.

Popularity at Events: Food trucks are often invited to participate in events, festivals, and markets, further increasing their visibility and customer reach.

The rise of the food truck industry is a testament to the evolving preferences of consumers, and the entrereneurial spirt of their owners. Installed Graphics, Inc. is excited to be involved with this industry at such a dynamic time.

How does wrapping a vehicle enhance your company’s image?

by Justin Sims

December 4, 2023

Posted in Uncategorized

How does wrapping a vehicle enhance your company’s image?

Wrapping a vehicle with your company’s branding and messaging is an effective way to enhance your company’s image and promote your brand. Success depends on various factors, including your industry, target audience, and the quality of the design and execution.

Here are some considerations:

Brand Recognition: A well-designed vehicle wrap makes your brand more recognizable. When people see your wrapped vehicle on the road, they are more likely to remember your company’s name, logo, and message.
Professionalism: A professionally wrapped vehicle conveys a sense of professionalism and legitimacy. It shows your company is serious about its branding and image.
Mobile Advertising: Vehicle wraps serve as mobile advertisements. Your message is constantly on the move, potentially reaching a broader audience than traditional advertising methods.
Local Marketing: If your business operates in a specific geographic area, a wrapped vehicle serves as a localized marketing tool, especially if your service involves traveling to customer locations.
Competitive Advantage: A well-designed wrap helps you stand out from the competition and create a memorable impression on potential customers.
Consistency: Vehicle wraps should align with your overall branding and marketing strategy to maintain consistency in how your company is perceived.

It’s imperative your design is well thought out and professional. A poorly executed wrap can have a negative impact on your company’s image. Additionally, consider the cost, maintenance, and potential wear and tear on the vehicle.

What are the differences between the Industry standard 3M IJ180 and the new 3M IJ280?

by Justin Sims

November 10, 2023

Posted in Graphic Installation

3M™ IJ180 vs 3M™ IJ280 Vinyl

Installed Graphics compares the two for you in one simple page.

Durability:

3M™ IJ180: Is a durable, cast vinyl film designed for long-term outdoor use. It has a lifespan of up to 10 years and is known for its resistance to UV radiation and tough weather conditions. It's has been a reliable choice for vehicle wraps and outdoor graphics for many years.
3M™ IJ280: IJ280 is another cast vinyl film from 3M, but it is generally considered to be less durable compared to IJ180. It's designed for medium-term applications and typically has a lifespan of around 5-7 years. While it's still a good choice for outdoor use, it may not be as long-lasting as IJ180.

Conformability:

3M™ IJ180: Is known for its excellent conformability, making it a preferred choice for wrapping vehicles and applying graphics to complex curves and contours. It can stretch and conform to irregular surfaces with ease.
3M™ IJ280: Offers good conformability, it may not be as flexible as IJ180. It's more suitable for flat or slightly curved surfaces. IJ280 tends to conform better at room temperature.

Adhesive:

Both films come with 3M's proprietary Controltac™ and Comply™ adhesive technologies, which help with ease of application and bubble-free installation. They allow for repositioning during application, which is especially important for large-scale graphics.

Finish Options:

Both IJ180 and IJ280 are available in a variety of finishes, including gloss, matte, and satin, to suit different design preferences.

Compatibility:

Both vinyl films are compatible with solvent, latex, and UV-curable ink systems, making them versatile choices for various printing methods.

Cost:

3M™ IJ180 is generally considered a premium product, and it tends to be more expensive than IJ280. The choice between the two may depend on your specific project requirements and budget constraints.

Custom Fleet Wraps Will Get Your Company Noticed

by Installed Graphics

February 15, 2018

Posted in Graphic Installation

The art of marketing has changed over the years as companies look for ways to advertise beyond simply advertising in the newspaper or on the radio. One of the most powerful ways to advertise your company is with a custom fleet wrap. You already own the vehicles so why not use them to promote your company? Our vinyl graphic installers can set you apart from your competition with a professional, and effective, set of custom fleet wraps designed to make a positive visual impression with customers.

Fleet Graphics Will Target a Wide Audience

Whether you have a fleet of vans, or simply have a single car or truck, each moment that your fleet is out on the road is a branding opportunity for your business. Fleet graphics will target a wide audience just by driving your fleet vehicles. Your logo and message will be on full display in traffic while making thousands of impressions per day. You can send your message out on the road during a business call or even during your daily lunch hour.

Your company message and the branding behind it will go wherever you want when your custom fleet warps are on the road. Sending out vehicles with fleet graphics puts your advertising message directly in front of your local customers and any other areas targeted by your business. Bring your brand to life with vehicle graphics and fleet wraps.

Vinyl Graphics Make It Easy To Track the Effectiveness

Our vinyl graphics and custom vehicle wraps provide you the opportunity to market your business while also tracking the effectiveness of your branding. Here is how you can track the effectiveness of vinyl graphics and automotive wraps.

Phone Number On Your Fleet Wraps – Put a separate phone number on the wrap that is only advertised on the fleet vehicle.
Special Promotions – Promote a special deal that can only be redeemed by mentioning that the deal that was seen on the vehicle.
Promote Website Address – Fleet graphics are a great way to promote your website address.

The possibilities are endless and our team of vinyl graphic installers will help make your marketing ideas a reality.

Contact Us to Transform Your Fleet Graphics

The vinyl graphic installers at Installed Graphics are ready to transform your current fleet vehicles into powerful vehicles that will advertise you to a wider audience. Vehicle graphics are a cost-effective choice to target customers in your local advertising market. Contact us for a free quote or to let us answer any questions you have about custom fleet wraps.