Posted By Vinyl Frog On April 28, 2023

Vinyl Rim Wrap

Vinyl rim wraps are extremely popular among car enthusiasts as they transform the appearance of the vehicle while offering ultimate protection to the wheels. We have often discussed wrapping the doors, hood, trunk, roof and other parts of a car in vinyl for a chic and alluring exterior. In this blog, we will focus on how to install a rim wrap and make the wheels look distinctive and captivating on the road.

What Is A Vinyl Rim Wrap?

Rim wrap is a vinyl film used to cover the outer edge or ‘rim’ of a wheel providing a protective and decorative layer. The vinyl used for rim wraps is flexible and can be cut to fit the size and shape of the rim. The purpose of a rim wrap is to provide a layer of protection against scratches, chips, and other damage that can occur to the wheel over time.

Rim wraps can also be used to change the appearance of the wheels, providing a cost-effective and easy way to customize the look of your vehicle. They can come in a variety of colors and designs. Some popular options include carbon fiber, metallic and glossy vinyl.

When installed correctly, rim wraps can provide a sleek and professional look that is comparable to the factory finish. However, if not installed properly or if low-quality materials are used, rim wraps may peel, bubble, or discolor over time.

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Benefits Of Vinyl Rim Wraps

There are many benefits to using vinyl rim wraps that will certainly convince you to invest in them.

Cost Effective Option

Compared to purchasing new rims or having them professionally painted or powder-coated, rim wraps are a more affordable option for customizing the look of your vehicle. Rim painting can be expensive and requires a lot of time and effort to achieve a professional look. With vinyl rim wrap, you can get the same look at a fraction of cost and time.

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Reversible Option

Another benefit of vinyl rim wrap is that it is easy to remove. Unlike rim paint, which requires sanding and repainting if you want to change the color or design, vinyl rim wrap can be easily removed and replaced with a new design or color.

This reversibility makes it an excellent option for car enthusiasts who like to change the appearance of their vehicle frequently. Removing a wrap does not cause any damage to the underlying wheel. This provides a degree of flexibility and allows you to change the look of your vehicle as often as you like.

Protection For The Wheel

Once you apply the rim wrap, you can rest assured that your wheel will be protected from the damage caused by the effects of the environment. Vinyl wrap is a durable material that can help shield the rim from scratches, chips, and other types of physical damage that can occur when driving.

It is also resistant to many common chemicals, such as road salts and cleaning agents, which can cause corrosion and other forms of damage to the rim. UV rays from the sun can cause fading and discoloration over time. Vinyl wrap provides a layer of protection against these rays, helping to preserve the original appearance of the rim.

All in all, vinyl wrap acts as a barrier between the rim and the outside elements thus helping to maintain the appearance and value of the wheel. By preventing damage and corrosion, vinyl wrap can help extend the lifespan of the rim and save you money on expensive repairs or replacements.

Ease Of Installation

Rim wraps can be installed quickly and easily. If you have some information about wrapping, you may not need a professional to do the job for you. This makes it a convenient option for those who want to customize their rims without spending much.

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Numerous Customization Options

Vinyl wrapping allows for a wide range of customization options, including different colors, patterns, and textures, making it an excellent way to enhance the appearance of your wheel rims. Depending on the color and style of the vinyl you opt for, you can make a bold or neutral statement.

Increase The Resale Value Of The Vehicle

Having well-maintained and visually appealing rims wraps can potentially increase the resale value of your vehicle. It shows prospective buyers that you take good care of your car and are invested in its upkeep.

However, it is crucial to ensure that you use a high-quality vinyl wrap for your rims. This not only enhances the overall appearance of your car but also assures potential buyers that the vinyl can be safely removed without causing damage to the paint or metal of the rims. By choosing the right vinyl wrap, you can impress buyers and potentially receive a higher resale value for your vehicle.

Tools Needed For Installing The Vinyl Rim Wrap

Installing vinyl rim wrap is a straightforward process that can be completed at home with the right tools and materials. If you have a flat-face wheel, it is much easier to wrap it then the one with a lot of depth and grooves. Before we move on, let’s first collect the supplies that would be required for the installation of the wrap.

A Supreme Quality Vinyl Wrap: This is the main material used to wrap the wheel rims. Visit Vinyl Frog to choose the premium quality wrap that will give you good value for money and will last for long.
Heat Gun: A heat gun is used to apply heat to the vinyl wrap, which makes it easier to mold and stretch around the wheel rim. It also activates the adhesive and makes it bond strongly with the surface. Visit Vinyl Frog to get the professional heat gun that will make your job easy.
Cutting Tool: A sharp cutting tool such as a utility knife or razor blade is needed to cut the vinyl wrap to the right size and shape. Vinyl Frog offers a branded knife with an angular blade for precise cutting of the vinyl film for a rim wrap.
Squeegee: This is an important tool for smoothing out vinyl and tucking it in. At Vinyl Frog, we have squeegees of different shapes and sizes that will make wrapping your rims a breeze.
Cleaning Solution: Before applying the vinyl wrap, you'll need to clean the wheel rims thoroughly. Use a cleaning solution that is safe for use on automotive surfaces. You can use a mild soap and detergent for this. Also keep a mixture of 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and water to remove any final traces of dirt and grease.
Gloves: Wearing gloves can help protect your hands from cuts and scrapes as you work on the wheel rims. These will also protect the vinyl from getting fingerprints.
Microfiber Cloth: This is used to clean the rims and dry them after washing.
Tape Measure: You will need this to measure the rims and cut the wrap accordingly.

Step-By Step Guide To Installing The Vinyl Rim Wrap

Step 1 - Clean the Rims: Start by removing any loose dirt or debris from your rims using a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber towel. Wash the rims thoroughly with mild detergent and water. Use a soft-bristled brush or a wheel brush to scrub the cleaner into the rims, paying close attention to any areas with buildup or brake dust. Rinse the rims thoroughly with water. Dry the rims completely using a microfiber cloth.

Use isopropyl alcohol to remove any traces of grease and clean thoroughly. Right before applying the vinyl film, go over the entire rim with a heat gun so that there is no moisture left.

Step 2 - Measure and Cut the Rim Wrap: Measure the diameter of the rim to determine the size of the vinyl wrap needed. Cut the vinyl wrap keeping at least two inches extra.

Step 3: Apply the Rim Wrap: Remove the entire liner from the vinyl film and lay it on the rim. Lightly tack it in place from the top and bottom. Now using your fingers, tack down the film where you want it on the rim.

Step 4: Apply Heat and Squeegee the Vinyl in Place: Apply heat in a back and forth motion keeping the heat gun 12 inches away from the vinyl. Use a squeegee to push the vinyl in place where you want it on the rim.
Apply moderate pressure while doing so. Start from the middle and move outwards. In this way you also remove creases and push air out of the rim wrap. Using your squeegee, push the vinyl into bevels and crevices.

Step 5: Trim Excess Vinyl: Once the wrap has been pressed down into crevices, trim away all excess vinyl using a razor or a knife. It is important to use a sharp blade so that the cuts are clean and precise. A dull blade can cause the vinyl to tear or leave jagged edges. Be careful not to accidentally scratch the rim with the blade. It is easier to control the blade and achieve clean cuts when working in small sections. Cut a little bit at a time and gradually work your way around the rim.

Use a light touch with the blade and let the sharpness of the blade do the work. Avoid pushing too hard or sawing back and forth. Make sure the vinyl is securely adhered to the rim before trimming.

Step 6: Post Heating Rim Wrap: Once the vinyl is applied to the rim and trimmed properly, it is time to post heat it. By post-heating your rim wrap, you can ensure that the vinyl conforms to the shape of the rim, giving it a smooth and professional-looking finish. Additionally, this step helps to prolong the lifespan of the vinyl wrap and protect it from peeling or cracking over time.

Start by heating the vinyl wrap on one section of the rim at a time, holding the heat gun approximately 8-10 inches away from the vinyl. Use a circular motion to evenly distribute the heat over the vinyl. Keep the heat gun moving at all times to prevent overheating or burning the vinyl.

While heating the vinyl, use a squeegee or your fingers to press the vinyl onto the rim, ensuring that it conforms to the shape of the rim. This will help eliminate any remaining air bubbles or wrinkles that were not removed during the wrapping process.

Move on to the next section of the rim and repeat the process. Once all sections of the rim are done, check to ensure that the vinyl is securely adhered to the rim. If you notice any areas where the vinyl is not adhering properly, you may need to reapply heat and pressure to those sections.

This was the last step. You have now successfully applied the vinyl rim wrap. Leave the vinyl to set for at least 24-48 hours before driving the vehicle or exposing the rims to water or other harsh conditions.

Vinyl Rim Wrap Aftercare

Once the wrap is installed, it is essential to care for it to ensure it lasts for a long time. Here are a few aftercare tips for your rim wrap:

Wash the rims regularly with mild soap and water using two buckets to remove dirt and debris.
Avoid high-pressure car washes since they may damage your rim wrap.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the rim wrap. They can cause the vinyl to deteriorate or discolor.
Dry the rims thoroughly with a microfiber cloth after washing to prevent water spots from forming.
Use a protective layer, such as a ceramic coating, to help keep the vinyl wrap safe from UV rays and other environmental factors.
Avoid exposing rim wraps to extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight or extreme cold, as it can cause the vinyl to shrink or expand and lead to cracking or peeling.
If you notice any damage or lifting of the vinyl, repair it promptly to prevent further damage or exposure to the elements.

Popular Shades For Your Vinyl Rim Wrap

This is quite a predicament: which color of vinyl to choose for your rim wrap? It really comes down to your personal preference. You can either go in contrast with the color of your vehicle or choose the one that complements it. Contrasting shades in rim wraps make your vehicle highly distinctive on the road giving it a unique look. Here are a few options to make your choice easier:

Glossy Metallic Vampire Red adds a vibrant and bold look to the wheels of your vehicle. The metallic surface goes well with the exterior and the bright crimson shade adds a touch of glamor. Apply vampire red wrap in contrast if you have a black or white car.
Glitter Metallic Diamond Purple Blue looks best as a rim wrap. The gleaming shades of blue and purple add personality and make your car’s wheels look unique and different.
Matte Black vinyl wrap looks highly intriguing on the rims. No matter what the color of your vehicle, this vinyl will go with all shades. This is one of the favorite wraps opted by car enthusiasts.
Carbon Fiber Vinyl looks simply exquisite as a rim wrap. At Vinyl Frog, it is available in three variants: Super, Classic and Glossy Spiral Black. The weave pattern of the wrap imitates the original carbon fiber look making your vehicle stand out from the mundane crowd.
Super Glossy Thyme Green vinyl is for those who love to think out of the box. It is a unique shade of green for a rim wrap and will instantly add a kick of color to your wheels. It looks best against a white or a black vehicle. Get a full wrap on your vehicle and use it in contrast as a rim wrap for an artistic touch.
Two Toned Rim Wrap is another superb idea. You can choose two contrasting shades of vinyl to cover the rims of your wheels. You can unleash your creativity while choosing the colors of the vinyl films. The possibilities are endless. This rim wrap will make your vehicle look unique and eye-catching.

How Much Vinyl Is Needed For A Rim Wrap?

The amount of vinyl needed for a rim wrap depends on the size and shape of your rims. Use a measuring tape to measure the diameter of the rim from one edge to the other. This measurement will give you an idea of how much vinyl wrap you will need.

Once you have the diameter, multiply it by 3.14 to calculate the circumference of the rim. This will give you the length of vinyl wrap needed for one complete wrap around the rim. Multiply the circumference by the number of rims you plan to wrap. For example, if you have four rims, you will need to multiply the circumference by four.

It's always a good idea to have a little extra vinyl on hand in case of mistakes or if you need to reposition the vinyl during installation. Add 10-20% to your total vinyl calculation to ensure you have enough material.

These are just general guidelines, and the amount of vinyl needed may vary depending on the size and shape of your rims. It's always best to measure your rims and consult with a professional or the manufacturer of the vinyl wrap to determine the exact amount of vinyl needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s Time To Install Vinyl Rim Wraps

Vinyl rim wrap is an excellent option for car enthusiasts looking to customize the appearance of their vehicle without breaking the bank. With a little bit of time and effort, you can transform the look of your rims and give your vehicle a unique and personalized look. By following the installation and care tips, you can ensure the longevity of your vinyl wrapped rims.

Visit Vinyl Frog today and check out the numerous options available, both in colors and finishes, for a perfect, supreme quality rim wrap. You will get the best value for money while making your vehicle extremely captivating!