Nothing makes a car really feel like it’s yours more than a custom car wrap. In Virginia, we’ve seen some amazing designs that really stand out on the road and turn heads wherever they go.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best custom car wraps Virginia has to offer. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and narrowed it down to these top 5 picks.
In this review we’ll cover:
- The top 5 custom car wrap providers in Virginia
- Comparing car wraps and painting jobs
- Tips for taking care of your car wrap
- Car wrap design ideas
- How car wraps affect resale value
P.S., if you want a custom car wrap for your personal or commercial needs, AP Graphics might be the provider you’re looking for. We’re a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about helping our clients create unique and eye-catching vehicle wraps that make a lasting impression.
The Top 5 Custom Car Wrap Services in Virginia
We’ve combed through the reviews and finally put together our top picks for custom car wrapping services in the state:
- AP Graphics
- Magnicolor Vinyl Wraps
- Laid Not Sprayed
- Night Ops Custom Shop
- RVA Graphics & Wraps
Let’s dive into the specifics of each one:
#1: AP Graphics
AP Graphics is a team of 3M-certified and endorsed experts specializing in designing, printing, and installing custom car wraps. From luxury cars to commercial fleets, AP Graphics has the experience and expertise to transform any vehicle into a mobile billboard or eye-catching work of art.
Best For: Commercial and personal custom car wraps that look great and last for years, particularly with challenging designs or multiple vehicles.
- Pricing: Ranges between $250 and $3,000 — we provide an easy-to-use calculator to estimate your wrap quote, or you can book a free consultation to learn more.
- Customer Reviews: “AP Graphics provided outstanding service from start to finish. Faced with rebranding of our entire company meant that our fleet of 36 vehicles had to be stripped and rebranded, quickly. Their talent, professionalism and kindness made working with them a pleasure. Five stars! Thank you!” — Kim Popowski, Marketing Director, PBI
- Warranty & Service Guarantees: AP Graphics offers a 2-year warranty covering most peeling and bubbling issues, along with 3M manufacturers’ warranties.
- Location & Contact Info:
- Phone number: (866) 390-6790
- Location: 5397 Enterprise St, Sykesville, MD 21784
Gallery:
#2: Magnicolor Vinyl Wraps
Magnicolor is a popular vinyl wrap and custom printing shop in the Newport News area. They offer various services, including lettering, logo design, and custom vehicle wraps.
Best For: Those looking for a comprehensive solution to their vehicle wrapping needs.
- Pricing: Like most vehicle wrapping services, you’ll need to get a custom quote. Other services have set prices: logo design is $100 and car washing (for wrapping preparation) is $100. ($100 hourly for large or commercial vehicles).
- Customer Reviews: “I love the work Magnicolor did on my car. It looks amazing. The quality of work was exceptional. The staff was very polite and professional. One of their staff, Jack helped me pick out colors, gave some ideas, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. The team at Magnicolor are truly a “cut above the rest”. If you want it done right, this is the place!”
- Warranty & Service Guarantees: Magnicolor offers quick fixes for installation malfunctions within the first years, along with the warranty that comes from the vinyl manufacturer.
- Location & Contact Info:
- Phone number: 757-273-2085
- Location: 241 Enterprise Drive Newport News, VA
Gallery:
#3: Laid Not Sprayed
Laid Not Sprayed is another local vinyl wrapping shop that prioritizes vehicle protection. The offer standard services like color changes, paint protection films (PPFs), and detailing.
Best For: Simpler custom jobs with an emphasis on protective effects for your vehicle.
- Pricing: Quotes are available upon request. For framing context, PPFs can range from $1,200 to $6,000.
- Customer Reviews: Love the work Randy and his team provide. Randy advised me up front with options and scenarios on how things would turn out. I have friends that have had their car wrapped and they agree that laid not sprayed did a great job on my cars. I highly recommend them! — Joela A. (From Yelp)
- Warranty & Service Guarantees: Your service guarantee will likely be covered by the vinyl manufacturer, but no specific mentions of a warranty from this service provider.
- Location & Contact Info:
- Phone number: 540-940-3798
- Location: 514 Lansdowne Rd., Suite F, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Portfolio:
#4: Night Ops Custom Shop
Night Ops is a well-respected local provider of liquid vehicle wraps. They offer a wide range of professional services with a personal touch.
Best For: If you’re looking for a liquid vehicle wrapper for your custom designs.
- Pricing: The full vehicle liquid wrap starts at $950 for solid colors, subject to change based on design and vehicle size.
- Customer Reviews: Amazing Service ! The owner was very informative about the process with any questions i had and kept me in the loop through the different stages with photos. My 96 impala now looks like something out of Forza ! — Marcus Timmson
- Warranty & Service Guarantees: Night Ops offers a warranty on all parts and labor for every service provided.
- Location & Contact Info:
- Phone number: +1 757-347-0586
- Location: 491 London Bridge Rd #104, Virginia Beach, VA 23454, United States
Portfolio:
#5: RVA Graphics & Wraps
Based in the Richmond area, RVA offers a range of services, spanning vehicle wraps and signage. They’re a strong choice for brands looking to get multiple graphics on different mediums.
Best For: Commercial players looking for signage on more than just vehicles.
- Pricing: Custom, based on square footage of wrapped areas.
- Customer Reviews: “Phenomenal work and punctual! Great job in keeping us updated on progress of the job. Highly recommended for all your vehicle wrapping needs!!” — William Smith, T-Wash Mobile Detail
- Warranty & Service Guarantees: Warranties will vary based on the material used in wrapping — but they are provided.
- Location & Contact Info:
- Phone number: (804) 510-1791
- Location: 1855 Boulevard W Building D, Richmond, VA 23230
Portfolio:
Custom Car Wraps vs Custom Paint Jobs
There are a few different ways we can differentiate between a wrap and a paint job when it comes to customizing your car:
- Price
- Timeframe
- Longevity
- Design options
- Reversibility
Let’s dive into each:
Price
Wraps:
- Generally, wraps are more cost-effective than a full custom paint job.
- Depending on the type of wrap and size of your vehicle, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.
- More intricate designs or larger vehicles will typically cost more.
Custom Paint Jobs:
- Custom paint jobs can be extremely expensive, especially if you’re looking for high-quality work with custom designs.
- Prices can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
- The type of paint used, the complexity of the design, and labor costs will all contribute to the final price.
Timeframe
Wraps:
- Wraps can typically be completed in a matter of days, depending on the size and complexity of the design.
- The installation process is relatively quick and can be done in a day or two.
Custom Paint Jobs:
- Custom paint jobs can take a few more days to complete.
- This is due to the level of detail and multiple layers of paint that are required for a high-quality finish.
Longevity
Wraps:
- Wraps typically have a shorter lifespan than custom paint jobs.
- They can last anywhere from 3-7 years, depending on the care and maintenance provided.
Custom Paint Jobs:
- With proper care and maintenance, a custom paint job can last for the lifetime of your vehicle.
Design Options
Wraps:
- When it comes to design options, wraps offer a seemingly endless variety.
- You can choose from solid colors, patterns, graphics, and even textured finishes.
- Wraps also allow for easy changes or updates to your design without the need for a full repaint.
Custom Paint Jobs:
- While custom paint jobs do offer some design flexibility, they are more limited compared to wraps.
- With paint, you are limited to the available colors and potential design limitations based on your vehicle’s shape.
- Making changes or updates to a custom paint job can also be more time-consuming and expensive compared to wraps.
Reversibility
Wraps:
- One of the benefits of wraps is their reversibility.
- If you decide to change or remove your wrap, it can be done without damaging your vehicle’s original paint.
Custom Paint Jobs:
- Custom paint jobs are not reversible and typically require a full repaint if you want to change the design or return to the original color.
How To Take Care of Your Custom Car Wrap
With the right care, your custom car wrap can last up to 7 years. But you need to take care of it properly — here are some pro tips on how to do that:
- Clean gently: Use mild soap and water to clean your wrap, and avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that can damage the vinyl.
- Avoid heat: Keep your wrapped vehicle out of direct sunlight for extended periods as heat can cause the vinyl to shrink or bubble.
- Handle with care: Be mindful when parking near other cars, trees, or sharp objects. A custom car wrap is durable but can still be punctured or scratched.
- Wash regularly: Frequent washing with mild soap and water helps to maintain the quality of the wrap and prevent dirt and debris from building up.
- Remove stains right away: If you notice any stains or spills on your wrap, remove them as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage.
Keep these tips in mind, and your custom car wrap will continue looking new for years to come.
Design Ideas for Your Custom Car Wrap
Trying to figure out what you want your custom car wrap to look like? Here are some ideas that take full advantage of everything wraps have to offer:
3D Illusions
This design uses 3D graphics to create optical illusions on the car, making it appear as if certain elements are protruding from or sinking into the vehicle. This could be geometric shapes, company logos, or any design that tricks the eye.
What you’ll need:
- High-quality vinyl capable of capturing detailed 3D graphics.
- A skilled designer experienced in creating optical illusions.
- A high-resolution printing process to ensure clarity and precision of the 3D effect.
Reflective Chrome Rainbow
A full-body chrome wrap that shifts color depending on the viewing angle and light. This wrap would turn the car into a vibrant spectrum of colors, reflecting its surroundings in a dazzling display.
What you’ll need:
- Specialized reflective chrome vinyl wrap.
- Expert application to ensure a seamless, mirror-like finish.
- A clear coat over the wrap to protect its reflective qualities and enhance durability.
Sleek Matte with Gloss Accents
Combine a matte finish with strategically placed gloss accents. This could be used to highlight design elements, logos, or to create subtle patterns that become visible as light hits the vehicle.
What you’ll need:
- High-quality matte vinyl wrap as the base layer.
- Gloss vinyl accents in complementary or contrasting colors.
- Precise plotting and cutting equipment to create intricate designs for the gloss accents.
How Custom Car Wraps Affect Resale Value
When it comes to selling a car, the first thing potential buyers see is the exterior. A custom wrap can either boost or hinder its resale value depending on several factors.
Here are some ways that custom car wraps can affect resale value:
- Increase visual appeal: A well-designed and professionally executed wrap can make your car stand out and attract more potential buyers.
- Protect paint: A car wrap can act as a protective layer against minor scratches and chips, preserving the original paint job and increasing its value.
- Personalization: Custom car wraps allow owners to express their individuality and make their vehicle unique. This can be appealing to some buyers, but it may limit the potential market for others.
- Branding: If the custom wrap features branding or logos, it may limit the potential resale value as some buyers may not want to promote a brand they don’t personally support.
- Quality of installation: A poorly installed wrap can have bubbles, wrinkles, and other imperfections that can decrease the overall appeal and value of the vehicle. It’s important to have a professional install the wrap to ensure a flawless finish.
Overall, custom car wraps can have a positive impact on resale value if done correctly, with high-quality materials and precise installation. However, it’s essential to consider the potential market for your vehicle and whether a custom wrap will appeal to potential buyers.
Design A Custom Car Wrap With AP Graphics
Custom car wraps can be a significant investment, but they can also be an effective way to personalize, protect, and increase the resale value of your vehicle. Let’s recap some of our key takeaways:
- AP Graphics is a top pick for personal and commercial custom car wraps in Virginia.
- Wraps are cost-effective and customizable compared to paint jobs.
- Proper care can extend wrap life up to 7 years.
- Custom wraps can boost or limit car resale value.
If you need a custom car wrap, it’s always nice to work with a reputable and experienced company like AP Graphics. We offer a wide range of design options for custom car wraps, allowing you to choose from various colors, patterns, and finishes to create a unique look for your vehicle.
Our team of professionals will ensure that the installation process is seamless, resulting in a flawless and high-quality finish. Book a consultation today to see if it’s the right fit for you.
