What is our cancellation policy?

We require 72 hours notice prior to your scheduled installation date to avoid a cancellation fee of $250.

What is our drop-off policy?

We ask that any vehicles being dropped off are washed within 24-48 hours prior to drop off. This ensures our ability to complete your job in a timely manner. Any vehicle that arrives in a condition that we deem should be cleaned will have a cleaning fee assessed ($85/hour). Drop-off dates are discussed during scheduling and we ask that you do your best to arrive on the discussed date.

How long does it take to wrap a vehicle?

On average the design process can take 7-14 business days. Once the design is completed production will begin and can take up to 48 hours to fulfill the order. After production is complete your wrap will be scheduled for installation which can take 3-5 days to complete (on average). The entire process can vary depending on the exact type of wrap product being purchased. For more detailed information on your specific needs please reach out to your Sales Representative.

What if I get into an accident or the wrap needs to be replaced?

All wrap products are created digitally which allows us to reprint and install any section of the graphics that may be damaged on your vehicle. We save all client artwork in the event that it ever needs to be reprinted. Oftentimes this is even covered by your insurance should you get into an accident. Please reach out to your insurance provider to learn more on coverage.

Could a wrap hurt the paint of my vehicle?

If all manufacturer procedures are followed the answer is no. The paint under the wrap is protected from the harsh UV rays of the sun exposure to the elements and minor scratches. Think of it as driving around with the world’s tightest car cover. Rest assured knowing that with Wraps Direct we will only select the best-of-the-best installation professionals that are certified by the product manufacturers that we use to ensure best practices and complete customer satisfaction 100% of the time.

Yes. We recommend that you bring your vehicle to us or a wrap shop that is knowledgeable about the wrap removal process. Removing a wrap requires a large amount of heat and various tools such as torches and heat guns. To avoid damage to your vehicle and injury to yourself it is recommended that you pay a professional to remove the wrap.

How long do vehicle wraps last?

Generally a wrap will last 5 years depending on the care of the vehicle and environments that it is exposed to. We use industry standard known and trusted films and laminate; the manufacturer of the material estimates the durability of the wrap to last 5 years on vertical surfaces. We recommend that you re-wrap your vehicle in 3 years to allow the wrap to be removed with ease. Washing the vehicle on a regular basis will prolong the life of the wrap. We recommend that vehicle wraps be hand washed as some pressure washers and automatic car wash machines can damage the wrap.

Why should I get a vehicle wrap instead of cut vinyl or paint?

A vehicle wrap provides maximum exposure for your business and brings it to life with eye-catching crystal clear graphics. With a vehicle wrap the amount of color or creativity you want is never limited. We do provide cut vinyl; however a vehicle wrap lasts much longer than cut vinyl and protects your paint from the harsh rays of the sun. Often when you remove cut vinyl the lines from it will still be visible on the vehicle due to fading of the paint. A vehicle wrap is better than paint because it is more cost effective and can be changed if your company’s details change. It can also be easily removed should you decide to sell your vehicle.

What else can you wrap?

Wraps Direct can wrap cars trucks boats helmets 18 wheelers car haulers race cars concept cars tour buses trailers cargo vans box trucks SUVs shipping containers walls windows store-fronts golf carts vending machines even buildings! You name it and we can wrap it. If you have something you need wrapped and we have NOT wrapped it before we are thrilled to have the opportunity to pioneer new wrap styles.

How much does it cost to wrap a vehicle?

Wraps are priced by the square foot. A full wrap on a vehicle can range from $1000 to $5000. That’s much less than the cost of having a billboard that you must rent every month or a tv/radio ad that you pay for monthly. You buy a wrap one time and it pays for itself over the span of three years or more. To get an accurate price on your vehicle click to Request a Quote. We are not always the cheapest wrap provider; in this industry you definitely get what you pay for. We invite you to stop by our shop to see for yourself what we can do for you.

Racing Stripes Reloaded: The Allure of Vinyl Racing Stripes- WRAPS DIRECT

August 17, 2023

The sleek, aerodynamic lines of a high-performance vehicle evoke a sense of exhilaration and power, but for those who want to take their car’s aesthetics to the next level, vinyl racing stripes are the epitome of dynamic style. These captivating, bold stripes have been a mainstay in the automotive world for decades, symbolizing speed, performance, and a touch of nostalgia. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating history, versatile designs, application process, and benefits of vinyl racing stripes, uncovering the enduring charm that makes them a classic choice for automotive enthusiasts.

Why racing stripes?

Racing stripes also referred to as Le Mans, were used to identify racecars during field races. Although they no longer have the same meaning, racing stripes now offer a psychological effect of a specific type of car appearing to be fast. Racing stripes allow anyone with any type of vehicle to give off the same effect to passersby and other car enthusiasts.

A Brief History: Origins and Evolution

The genesis of vinyl racing stripes can be traced back to the racetracks of the mid-20th century. Initially introduced for practical purposes, these stripes served as a means of distinguishing different race cars hurtling around the track at high speeds. Spectators and drivers alike could easily identify and follow specific vehicles, adding an element of safety to the intense world of motorsports.

As racing stripes grew in popularity, they transcended their utilitarian beginnings and became a hallmark of speed and style. The 1960s and 1970s marked a golden era for vinyl racing stripes, as muscle cars and sports cars embraced these striking accents to complement their powerful engines. Legendary models such as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Charger sported iconic dual stripes that not only enhanced their visual appeal but also solidified their status as automotive icons.

What do different racing stripes mean?

In the ’60s and ’70s racing teams were required to use colors that represented their countries: Italian teams were red (think Ferrari), British – green (Lotus), Germans – silver (Mercedes), and Americans – white. Nowadays these colors don’t have the same standing and Wraps Direct offers racing stripes in any color and design you can imagine.

The Enduring Allure

Despite the passage of time and ever-evolving automotive trends, vinyl racing stripes have retained their timeless allure.

Visual Dynamism and Sporty Elegance: Vinyl racing stripes inject an undeniable sense of movement and energy into a vehicle’s exterior. Even when stationary, the elongated lines create an illusion of speed and power, instantly imbuing the car with a sporty, dynamic character.

Customization Beyond Boundaries: The versatility of vinyl racing stripes is a key factor in their enduring popularity. From classic dual stripes to single pinstripes and elaborate modern designs, the range of customization options knows no bounds. Enthusiasts can tailor the width, color, placement, and pattern of the stripes to align perfectly with their individual style and the car’s unique aesthetics.

Nostalgia and Automotive Heritage: Vinyl racing stripes carry a touch of nostalgia, conjuring images of classic racing films, vintage racetracks, and timeless automotive elegance. By adorning your vehicle with racing stripes, you pay homage to a rich history of motorsport and performance, bridging the gap between past and present.

Easy Application and Removal: Unlike permanent paint modifications, vinyl racing stripes offer a practical advantage in their ease of application and removal. This allows for experimentation with various designs and colors, granting the freedom to refresh your car’s appearance as frequently as your creative spirit desires.

Broad Appeal and Versatility: Vinyl racing stripes aren’t confined to a specific type of vehicle. They seamlessly enhance the aesthetics of sports cars, muscle cars, SUVs, trucks, and more, making them a versatile choice for car enthusiasts across diverse automotive preferences.

Design Possibilities: From Classic to Contemporary

Vinyl racing stripes encompass a wide array of design possibilities, ranging from classic styles that pay homage to the golden era of racing, to contemporary patterns that merge innovation with tradition. Some popular design options include:

Classic Dual Stripes: The timeless appeal of classic dual stripes, running down the center of the vehicle, evokes a sense of elegance and simplicity. This design harkens back to the iconic racing heritage that paved the way for today’s automotive aesthetics. The classic racing stripe can be made from two perpendicular lines or one large line, different colors running down the middle or sides. Wraps Direct not only offers various color stripes but different textures as well.

Pinstripes and Accents: Delicate pinstripes or subtle accent lines offer a touch of understated sophistication. These stripes can be strategically placed along curves, edges, or contours to enhance the car’s overall shape and create a harmonious visual flow.

Modern Twists and Custom Creations: For those seeking a contemporary take on racing stripes, modern designs that incorporate asymmetry, geometric shapes, and intricate patterns provide a fresh perspective. Custom creations allow enthusiasts to showcase their individuality and push the boundaries of traditional aesthetics.

Full-Length Stripes: Also referred to as “bumblebee stripes,” cover the entire length of the vehicle, these bold, uninterrupted stripes make a striking statement, these were made popular by the Dodge Charger Daytona. This design choice draws attention to the vehicle’s sleek silhouette and amplifies its sense of speed and movement. Side stripes can also tie into a spoiler for a more dramatic effect.

Application Process: Precision and Expertise

Applying vinyl racing stripes requires precision, patience, and a steady hand. While some automotive enthusiasts opt for DIY installation, seeking professional assistance ensures a flawless finish that aligns perfectly with the car’s contours and edges. The typical application process involves the following steps:

Surface Preparation: The vehicle’s surface must be thoroughly cleaned and prepped to ensure proper adhesion. Any debris, dust, or contaminants can affect the longevity of the stripes.

Measuring and Alignment: Precise measurements and alignment markers are crucial for achieving symmetrical and balanced stripes. These measurements serve as guides for accurately placing the vinyl.

Application of Vinyl: The vinyl racing stripes are carefully laid onto the vehicle’s surface, adhering to the measured alignment points. Special tools are often used to smooth out any air bubbles or creases.

Trimming and Finishing: Once the vinyl is in place, excess material is trimmed to achieve clean edges and a polished appearance. Special attention is paid to corners, curves, and intricate details to ensure seamless integration.

Final Inspection: A meticulous final inspection is conducted to verify the accuracy of alignment, smoothness of application, and overall visual harmony. Any imperfections are corrected before the installation is deemed complete.

For a more in-depth look into the application process, check out our blog The Art of Vinyl Wrap Application!

Can you wax over vinyl stripes?

Wraps Direct recommends waxing vinyl stripes after application by hand so you don’t accidentally pick up the vinyl at the corners of racing stripes. For any vinyl wrap, you can use your favorite car wax, Wraps Direct recommends using the “Car Guys” all-surface wax that you can buy from Amazon https://amzn.to/45fjEO8.

Can you put a ceramic coating on vinyl stripes?

Yes! Here at Wraps Direct, we not only recommend using ceramic coating for the benefit of protecting your vehicle, but ceramic coating also protects the vinyl. We offer This service to many of our clients looking for a low-maintenance way of taking care of their investment. Wraps Direct recommends using https://amzn.to/3KGF26v ceramic coating from Amazon.

How do you take care of vinyl stripes?

Racing stripes allow for easy care; with only water and an ammonia-free cleaner, you can restore and keep your vinyl stripes lasting for years to come. Wraps Direct recommends using these microfiber cloths from Amazon https://amzn.to/3OWUhe4 to clean vinyl wrap.

You can also check out our blog Vinyl Wrap Care 101, for additional information on caring for your vinyl racing stripes.

Benefits Beyond Aesthetics

Beyond their striking visual impact, vinyl racing stripes offer a range of benefits that contribute to their enduring popularity:

Protection and Preservation: Vinyl racing stripes can act as a protective layer, shielding the car’s paint from minor abrasions, stone chips, and other road debris. This layer of defense helps maintain the vehicle’s resale value and overall appearance.

Temporary Transformation: Unlike permanent paint modifications, vinyl racing stripes allow for a temporary transformation of the vehicle’s appearance. This flexibility enables enthusiasts to switch up their style without committing to a permanent change.

Affordability and Accessibility: Vinyl racing stripes are a cost-effective way to elevate a car’s aesthetics. They offer a high impact at a fraction of the cost of a complete paint job, making them accessible to many car owners.

Enhanced Resale Value: Well-maintained vinyl racing stripes can improve a vehicle’s resale value by contributing to its unique and eye-catching appeal. A visually striking car is likely to attract more attention from potential buyers.

Do racing stripes add horsepower?

Unfortunately, adding racing stripes to a vehicle’s exterior does not increase an engine’s power. Racing stripes are aesthetically pleasing for car enthusiasts and offer the psychological effect of being a faster vehicle.

Conclusion: A Timeless Expression of Automotive Passion

Vinyl racing stripes are a testament to the connection between automotive heritage and contemporary design. These bold accents encapsulate the spirit of speed, style, and personal expression, making them an ageless choice for car enthusiasts across generations. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of dual stripes, the intricacies of modern designs, or the nostalgia-infused aura of racing heritage, vinyl racing stripes offer a canvas through which you can transform your vehicle into a unique masterpiece that roars with the spirit of the open road. As automotive trends evolve, vinyl racing stripes remain a steadfast symbol of individuality and passion in a world of shifting aesthetics.

By choosing Wraps Direct, you gain the assurance and peace of mind that comes with entrusting your vinyl wrap needs to specialists in the field. We strive to provide the best in customer service satisfaction, top-quality materials, expert installations, and back up everything we do with our warranties. Let Wraps Directhandle your vinyl wrap installation projects to ensure a flawless finish and deliver a vehicle that will turn heads.