Car wraps (Maryland)

Imagine a car that doesn’t just look great, but is protected from the wear and tear of daily use — that’s the magic of a car wrap. The right provider can help your vehicle look brand new for years to come, but how do you know which one to choose?

That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • The 5 best car wrap services in Maryland
  • How to design, customize, and take care of your wrap
  • The car wrapping process
  • Legal best practices for car wraps in Maryland.

Let’s jump into it!

Heads up — have you checked out AP Graphics? We’re a team of highly experienced, 3M-certified and endorsed vehicle wrap technicians with a passion for cars and customer satisfaction. With our years of experience, we’ve got you covered for all your car wrapping needs in Maryland.

The 5 Best Services for Car Wraps in Maryland

We’ve done the digging: here are the car wrap providers in Maryland most worth your time:

  1. AP Graphics: The best, with premium-quality wraps for any use.
  2. Tint World: Known for its exceptional customer service.
  3. RoadRunner: A general-purpose shop for car wraps and other vehicle customization services.
  4. Baltimore Graphics: For full-service graphic design, wraps, and signage.
  5. Full Throttle Wraps & Graphics: For a straightforward, affordable option.

When it comes to car wraps, Maryland offers some of the best services in the country. Whether you’re looking for a high-end, premium wrap or a budget-friendly option, there’s something for everyone — let’s dive deeper into each one:

#1: AP Graphics

AP Graphics is a leading custom car wrap company servicing Maryland. We’ve been in business for years and have built a reputation for providing high-quality, innovative designs for our clients’ vehicles. Our team of 3M-certified experts uses state-of-the-art technology and materials to create eye-catching wraps certain turn heads on the road.

Best For: Custom, premium-quality wraps for commercial or personal use.

  • Pricing: Book a free consultation to get a quote today.
  • Customer Reviews: “I’m continually impressed with the consistency in design, production and installation of our fleet vehicles over time. AP gets it right, time and time again. I’m getting ready to drop off my 25th vehicle with them!” — Andrew Fitzhugh, Sr. President, Amazing HVAC
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: Wraps are protected and guaranteed by the official 3M MCS Warranty.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (866) 390-6790
    • Location: 5397 Enterprise St, Sykesville, MD 21784

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#2: Tint World

Tint World is a chain of automotive styling centers, with a location in Baltimore, Maryland. They specialize in general-purpose vehicle customizations, like vinyl graphics and lettering.

Best For: When you need several other customizations along with your vehicle wrap, especially tinting.

  • Pricing: Like many automotive stylers, your price will depend on a custom quote from Tint World.
  • Customer Reviews: While most reviews gear towards their tinting services, there is a pattern of quality service.
    One of the best customer service experiences I’ve ever had. I had my windows tinted on my truck. The quality is excellent, and the customer service was amazing. — TYSON N.
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: Most services and products are warrantied, for a minimum of 90 days.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (410) 388-0282
    • Location: 717 North Point Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA

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#3: RoadRunner

RoadRunner is another player in the DC vehicle wrapping business, offering a wide array of vinyl wrap services.

Best For: Reliable vehicle wraps from a team with years of combined experience.

  • Pricing:
    • Partial wrap: can start around $500
    • Full wrap: can range from $1,500 to $3,500.
  • Customer Reviews (only available for Beltsville location): Just had my logos put on the van at their shop in Beltsville. The whole process was pretty quick and easy. They worked with my logos and came up with the layout for me. I will be bringing my other work vans to them in the future. Nice work. Thanks guys — David L. (Greenbelt, MD).
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: RoadRunner offers print and install warranties.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: 301-937-3777
    • Location: Kwik Signs 11215 Old Baltimore Pike, Beltsville, MD 20705

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#4: Baltimore Graphics

Baltimore Graphics is a local graphic design and vinyl wrapping provider that also offers end-to-end services in logo design, brand identity, and even apparel.

Best For: If you need a partner for a large brand launch, with design, clothing, and signage.

  • Pricing: This will depend on the size of the vehicle, as well as your graphic design needs.
  • Customer Reviews: “As a new business owner, I needed guidance on branding, logo design and marketing support. I was fortunate enough to find Baltimore Graphics. Baltimore Graphics designed my logo and wrapped my trucks, allowing my business to hit the ground running… Incredible company!!!” — David A. (Sunrise Lawn Care)
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: No formal warranties or guarantees can be found.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: 410-768-3500
    • Location: 200 Penrod Court, Ste E Glen Burnie, MD 21061

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#5: Full Throttle Wraps & Graphics

Full Throttle is another service provider in Maryland that specializes more toward custom wraps and signage, with options for personalized lettering and designs.

Best For: A simple fulfillment process without too many frills or extras.

  • Pricing: Requires a custom quote.
  • Customer Reviews: “We had a awesome experience! Our sign turned out exactly the way we wanted and just in time for opening day! They were very professional and we will definitely recommend them to anyone needing their services.” — Heather H
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: No explicit warranties were mentioned, but your wrap is likely covered by the manufacturer.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (484) 584-5607
    • Location:  2744 Pulaski Hwy, Newark, DE 19702

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How to Design & Customize Your Car Wrap

When you’re designing a new car warp, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Color: Choose a color that reflects your personality or represents your brand.
  • Graphics/Designs: Consider adding graphics or designs to make your car wrap stand out even more. This could be anything from simple stripes to full custom artwork.
  • Font & Text: If you want to include any text on your car wrap, make sure to choose a legible font and keep the text to a minimum for maximum impact.
  • Contrast: Make sure there is enough contrast between your chosen colors and designs to ensure your car wrap is easily visible from a distance.
  • Size & Placement: Consider the size and placement of your graphics and designs to ensure they are visible and not obstructing any important information or features on your car.

Now that you know what to keep in mind when designing your car wrap, let’s understand more about how the wrapping process works:

How Car Wrapping Works Step-by-Step

Let’s break down the process of getting your car wrapped, from start to finish — with some expert tips along the way:

Design

The first step is creating a design for your car wrap using various software and tools.

  • Aim for brand synergy: Incorporate your brand logo, colors, and design elements to create a cohesive and professional look.
  • Take advantage of custom graphics: Stand out with unique and eye-catching designs that can be printed on your car wrap.
  • Consider the color psychology: Different colors convey different emotions and messages, so choose wisely according to the image you want to project.

Preparation

Once the design is finalized, it’s time to prepare your car for wrapping.

  • Clean the exterior thoroughly: Remove any dirt, debris, and grease from your car’s surface for a smooth application.
  • Examine for any damages: It’s best to fix any dents or scratches before wrapping to ensure a seamless finish.
  • Remove any accessories or fixtures: Take off any accessories or fixtures that may hinder the wrapping process.

Installation

With the design finalized and your car prepped, it’s time for the actual installation.

  • Professional installation is key: For best results, hire a professional local car wrapping service like AP Graphics to ensure proper technique and application.
  • Application methods vary: There are different methods for applying car wraps, such as full wrap, partial wrap, and spot graphics. Discuss with your service provider to determine the best method for your needs.
  • Application time: The time it takes to install a car wrap varies depending on the size of the vehicle and complexity of the design. However, it typically takes around 1-3 days.

Application

The actual process of applying the car wrap involves:

  1. Carefully measuring and cutting the vinyl wrap to fit your car’s dimensions.
  2. Using heat and a squeegee to smooth out the wrap and remove any air bubbles for a seamless finish.
  3. Making precise cuts around areas like doors, handles, and mirrors for a professional-looking result.
  4. Repeating the process for different sections of your car until the entire surface is covered.

Maintenance

Now that your car is wrapped, it’s important to know how to keep it looking its best.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Use gentle soap and water to clean your wrap regularly, avoiding any abrasive or acidic cleaners that can damage the material.
  • Protect against sun and heat exposure: Park in the shade whenever possible to prevent fading, and avoid using a pressure washer on your wrap as it can cause peeling.
  • Handle with care: Be mindful of sharp objects or rough surfaces that can scratch or puncture the vinyl.

The Latest Styles in Car Wrapping

Full Vehicle Wraps

Full vehicle wraps cover the entire surface of a car, offering a complete transformation of its appearance. This type of wrap is commonly used for both personal customization and commercial purposes, like advertising or branding.

  • Best For: Ideal for those looking to make a bold statement or for businesses seeking to turn their vehicle into a moving billboard.
    When to Do It: Best when you want a total makeover for your car, whether for aesthetic reasons or for advertising.

Pros:

  • Provides comprehensive coverage, protecting the original paint from scratches and UV rays.
  • Allows for creative and intricate designs, offering a unique look.
  • Removable and reversible; you can return to the car’s original color or change designs without damage.

Cons:

  • More expensive than partial wraps due to the amount of material and labor involved.
    The installation process is time-consuming, requiring precision and expertise.

Color Change Wraps

Color change wraps are specifically designed to change the color of your car. They come in various colors and finishes, allowing for a completely new look without the permanence of paint.

  • Best For: Ideal for individuals looking to personalize their vehicle’s appearance or to refresh an older car’s look.
  • When to Do It: Suitable when you want a new color but don’t want to commit to a permanent paint job, or when you wish to preserve the original paint for resale value.

Pros:

  • Offers a wide range of colors and finishes not always available with traditional paint.
  • Protects the original paint underneath, which can help retain the car’s resale value.
  • Easier to remove than full wraps, as they typically involve less complex designs.

Cons:

  • May not cover every nook and cranny of the car, potentially leaving some original color visible.
  • The longevity of the wrap may vary based on the quality of the material and exposure to environmental elements.

Special Finishes

This category includes wraps with unique textures or effects, such as matte, satin, gloss, metallic, chrome, carbon fiber, or even textured finishes like leather or brushed metal.

  • Best For: Perfect for car enthusiasts looking to stand out with a unique or high-end finish. It’s also used for special occasions or promotional events.
  • When to Do It: Ideal when seeking a distinctive or luxury appearance that goes beyond traditional colors.

Pros:

  • Provides an exclusive and often high-end look that can be a real head-turner.
  • Allows for personalization beyond standard color schemes.
  • Some finishes, like matte or satin, can hide minor imperfections on the car’s surface.

Cons:

  • Certain finishes like chrome can be significantly more expensive than standard wraps.
  • Some textured wraps might require more care and maintenance.
  • The durability of special finishes may vary, with some being less resistant to scratches or environmental factors.

Legal Best Practices for Car Wraps in Maryland

Comply with Vehicle Identification Laws

In Maryland, commercial vehicles are often required to display certain identification information, such as the USDOT number, company name, and GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) rating. When designing a car wrap, it’s crucial to incorporate these elements into the design in a clear and visible manner. The lettering should contrast with the background color of the wrap for readability.

Best Practice: Ensure that the car wrap design includes a dedicated space for legal identification that meets state size and color contrast requirements.

Regularly review state and federal regulations to stay updated on any changes in identification requirements.

Stick to Safety and Visibility Standards

Safety is a paramount concern on Maryland roads. Car wraps should not obstruct the driver’s view or the vehicle’s lighting systems, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Additionally, wraps should not mimic law enforcement or emergency vehicle designs, as this can be misleading and is often illegal.

Best Practice: When designing and applying car wraps, it’s important to work with professional installers who understand the importance of maintaining clear visibility for all windows and lights.

Regularly inspect the wraps to ensure they remain in compliance, and avoid designs that could be mistaken for official vehicles.

Respect Local Advertising and Decency Laws

Advertising through car wraps must adhere to local and state advertising standards. In Maryland, this means avoiding misleading claims and ensuring that the content of the wraps is not offensive or indecent. This is particularly important as vehicles travel through different jurisdictions with varying decency standards.

Best Practice: Before finalizing a car wrap design, review it for compliance with advertising laws. This includes avoiding false or misleading claims about products or services, and ensuring that the imagery and language used are appropriate for a public setting.

It may also be prudent to consult with legal counsel to confirm that the wrap adheres to local and state advertising regulations.

How to Take Care of Your Car Wrap

Let’s go over some tips and best practices for taking care of a newly wrapped vehicle, especially in Maryland:

  • Regular Cleaning:
    • Frequency and Method: Clean the wrapped vehicle regularly. Wash it by hand using a mild detergent and clean water. Avoid high-pressure washes as they can potentially lift the edges of the wrap. Use a soft, clean sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the vinyl.
    • Best Practice in Maryland’s Climate: In winter, remove road salt and grime promptly as they can damage the wrap over time. During summer, frequent washing is beneficial to remove dust and contaminants that can adhere more stubbornly in hot weather.
  • Avoiding Harsh Chemicals:
    • Chemical Exposure: Steer clear of harsh solvents, oil-based cleaners, and kitchen degreasers. These can damage the vinyl and cause it to degrade or discolor.
    • Best Practice: Use cleaners specifically designed for vehicle wraps or mild soapy water. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the wrap first.
  • Protecting from Sunlight and Heat:
    • Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to fading over time. This is particularly relevant in Maryland’s sunny summers.
    • Best Practice: Whenever possible, park the vehicle in shaded areas or under a cover. Consider using a UV protectant spray designed for vinyl wraps to provide additional protection against UV rays.
  • Mindful Driving and Parking:
    • Driving Habits: Be cautious of rough terrain or narrow spaces that could scratch or damage the wrap.
    • Parking Considerations: In urban areas, try to park in well-maintained areas to avoid potential damage from external factors like vandalism or accidental scrapes.
  • Regular Inspections:
    • Inspection Routine: Regularly inspect the wrap for signs of wear and tear such as lifting edges, rips, or color changes.
    • Climate Considerations: Maryland’s winter conditions can be harsh, so pay special attention to the wrap’s condition after winter storms or exposure to ice-melting chemicals.
  • Avoiding Mechanical Brush Car Washes:
    • Car Wash Types: Mechanical brush car washes can be abrasive to the wrap. The brushes can catch the edges of the wrap, causing lifting or peeling.
    • Best Practice: Opt for touchless car washes if hand washing isn’t feasible. Ensure that the water pressure isn’t too high.
  • Proper Storage:
    • Storage Environment: If the vehicle will not be used for an extended period, store it in a garage or under a breathable cover to protect the wrap from dust, debris, and environmental elements.
    • Climate-Related Storage: In Maryland’s humid summers, ensure good ventilation when storing the vehicle to prevent mold or mildew under the wrap.

Keep these tips in mind to maintain the quality and longevity of your car wrap. By following these steps, you can protect your investment and enjoy a stunning, eye-catching vehicle for years to come.

Have the Best Car Wrap in Maryland With AP Graphics

We’ve run through the best vehicle wrapping services Maryland has to offer, along with some expert tips and tricks for the world of car wraps.

Let’s recap our key takeaways:

  • Keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear, and pay special attention after harsh weather conditions.
  • To keep your wrap street-friendly, opt for safer designs that don’t impact visibility on the roads.
  • The best type of wrap for your car depends on your budget and future goals.

We might be biased, but we think AP Graphics is the top choice for car wrapping in Maryland. With state-of-the-art technology and a team of skilled professionals, we can create high-quality wraps to suit any vehicle. Book a free consultation today to see where we can take you.