A precise measurement is the first step to a successful vinyl film wrapping project. It is essential to know how much wrap material you need for the work. This can give you confidence and ensure a smooth application process.
However, do not measure from edge to edge. It is best to add an extra 3 inches to every side of each section, which is for pulling the wrap and ensuring full coverage. If you measure directly from the tip of the front fender to the rear of the back fender, add an extra 6 inches of material.
Vinyl material you need
The amount of vinyl you need can vary based on the type of film you use. If you use a chrome car wrap, add an extra 4 meters. And it is recommended to always leave 2 - 3 additional meters for future repairs, as the same batch of products might no longer be available, and the hue from a different pack can show a slight difference. If you are a beginning installer, getting an extra 3 yards of material is helpful to account for mistakes during the application.
For your reference, here are the data of some vehicles regarding how much material is needed:
- Motorcycles 10-16 feet (3-5 meters)
- Mini, small cars 42-45 feet (13-14 meters)
- Convertible 49-52 feet (15-16 meters)
- Coupe 55-59 feet (17-18 meters)
- Sedan 55-59 feet (17-18 meters)
- Hatchback 52-55 feet (16-17 meters)
- Sports Car 52-55 feet (16-17 meters)
- Station Wagon 59-65 feet (18-20 meters)
- Sport-utility Vehicle (SUV) 55-63 feet (17-19 meters)
- Minivan 65-80 feet (20-24 meters)
- Pickup Truck 72-92 feet (22-28 meters)
Cut in sections
As soon as you know how much material you need for the wrapping project, it is good to cut the vinyl film in sections. Doing this will boost your installation efficiency and reduce the chance of cutting mistakes. Thus, now it is time to do some precise measurements in detail, learning how much vinyl you need for each section of the vehicle.
Hood and fender
Starting from the hood, just measure it straight forward. But again, do not measure from edge to edge. Always add an extra three inches to all sides. Then, you can measure the fender in the same way.
The side
Next, you should measure the driver-and-passenger side. Instead of adding an extra three inches, make it 12 inches for this section. Make a mark on the front fender beforehand, and measure from this mark to the rear edge of the back fender. And you have the measurement.
Bumpers
Last but not least, you can move on to bumpers. Do not measure from the front bumper but do it from the back because the rear bumper is wider. When doing it, start your measurement from the middle of the back bumper, and go to the side. Remember to add an extra three inches. Then, double up the measurement, and you have the full width.
Once you have all these numbers, make sure you write them down. You can then separate the car wrap into sections in a safe space. And that is already a huge step towards success. Learn more about vinyl application at teckwrap.com
