Color & Material Options for Color-Change Wraps
The Materials
Before we hit brands, let’s talk about the different types of material available. There are two major types of vinyl film: Calendared and Cast vinyl. While both are made primarily from PVC (polyvinylchloride), a variety of plastic polymers, the manufacturing process differs.
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Calendared vinyl is made by rolling and heat-pressing solid PVC material through rollers to flatten the film, similar to making pasta. This process, called “calendaring,” produces a thicker and less expensive film that is not as stretchy or conformable as cast vinyl. These films are trickier to install because they are not as flexible, and the amount of “factory stretch” in the film can lead to post-install peeling and other failures if not considered. These films may also fade or discolor more quickly than cast vinyl films and generally have a short lifespan of 6 months to 2 years. For this reason, we do not generally recommend this type of film.
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Cast vinyl films are made through a casting process that involves pouring a liquid mixture of PVC material and other ingredients onto a moving matrix. This is heated to evaporate solvents, leaving behind a solid film that is thin, stretchy, and conformable. This is the most flexible and durable type of vinyl film. Lifespan can range from 2-5 years. Brands include 3M, Avery, Evolv, Hexis, KPMF, & Orafol.
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NOTE: We do not install this type of film.
Paint Protection Film (PPF) or clear bra is traditionally a transparent urethane film. It is thicker and more durable than any vinyl film and is known for providing the best surface protection. There are a handful of brands that have taken this technology and successfully injected color into this usually transparent film. Enter “Cosmetic PPF” - a color-change experience with added protection against rock chips, scratches, and other hazards.
The Colors
There are various brands, each with a unique assortment of color options. Tap the images below to view our curated list of colors - you’ll have a much easier time navigating the multitude of Cast and PPF color choices this way.
Note: It is generally recommended to use these cast vinyl brands for longevity; however, if you can’t find the right color amongst those brands and are okay with the shorter lifespan, calendared film might be the way to go. Calendared film is mainly distributed directly from the brand - you’ll find some options in the gallery, but more are under their respective brands below.
Chrome & PPF are tagged since they cost considerably more. We will also include select Aura and Techwrap colors here, and they will be labeled as such since we recommend them last.
Alternatively, you can view the complete selection for a number of brands at metrorestyling.com - 3M, Avery, Hexis, KPMF, & Orafol.
Read about our current favorite and least favorite vinyl brands.