Most of the time, vehicle graphics are referred to as wraps. This implies an entire vehicle covered with vinyl. However, graphics do not have to cover the entire surface to be effectve. Other options include cut vinyl or full color decals. Partially wrapping your vehicle may also be an option to consider because while it saves money, it will still advertise just as effectively when executed properly.
As seen above, well positioned cut vinyl lettering and graphics can look just like a wrap. This type of application can reduce costs and still allow your message to be displayed effectively. While it does not have the same type of splash as a truck wrap, truck lettering and decals will let customers know who you are and what services or products you offer. If you currently have blank vehicles and want to test the market for this type of advertising, this may be a good way to do it. The key is to design the cut vinyl and the truck decals in a way that works with the vehicle, for example strategically placing the cut vinyl around hardware like plastic trim pieces and heavy body creases.
It is good to have a basic understanding of vinyl materials. There are many varieties used for specific applications so you should discuss these questions with your sign vendor to understand what type you would be getting for your
fleet graphics. There are two over arching types of vinyl availabale, cast and calendared. Cast vinyl begins with a list of ingredients being added to a mixing churn. This mixture is then poured onto a casting sheet and processed to allow for evaporation of solvents. After the solvents have evaporated, a solid film is left behind. This film is the vinyl that is used to create a beautiful advertisement for your company. Cast vinyl is wonderful for curved surfaces, though it is a bit higher in price than calendered. Calendered vinyl is formulated with similar materials as cast. However, instead of forming a liquid and being poured, the mixture forms a dough-like substance. It is then kneaded and rolled into a thin sheet in a process called calendering. Calendered vinyl is typically used for flat surfaces, and tends to be lower in price.
Now that we understand the structure of vinyl, we can understand how they are applied. When wrapping a vehicle, the vinyl needs to have the abilty to have some stretch. Cast vinyl is used for vehicle wraps since it can stretch and conform to the body easier, for example wrapping around a bumper. Part of the reason cast vinyl can stretch is because it tends to be thin compared to calendared, and so requires an experienced installer to get the cast vinyl to apply smooth. These factors increase application time in order to have a great looking wrap. Applying calendared vinyl usually does not involve curve surfaces, rather flat applications, like the sides of vehicles. Since this type of application does not require as much time to conform vinyl around curves, and because calendared vinyl is thicker, it tends to be a little easier to handle and leads to less labor time when compared to wrap labor time. This is a big contributor to a better price point for flat cut vinyl application.
These are only a few of the variables involved with vehicle graphics but hopefully this helps you understand there are differences and the case for well placed cut vinyl graphics and truck decals. If you are considering graphics for vans, box trucks, buses or any other type of people and material movers for that matter, consider cut vinyl and/or full color digitally printed decals.
Oh, by the way....we can help you with that! We use only the highest quality equipment, and state-of-the-art supplies. We have been busy designing and installing vehicle graphics this season, and a few recent customers include, Relmec, Cleveland Lumber Company, and our very own vehicle. Contact us today for a free quote, so we can begin designing your dream sign as soon as possible!
440-799-8235
