Audi S7 Vinyl Wrap Review: Gloss Black Roof Refresh

Audi S7 Roof Wrap Refresh: Why a Redo Was Necessary

This Audi S7 underwent a roof skin refresh. Due to insufficient maintenance after the previous installation, the surface condition was significantly damaged. The average lifespan of a car wrap varies by material but is generally around 3 years. The roof, in particular, is the most exposed area to sunlight and UV rays, making regular care essential.

This service, performed at "Today's Car" Namyangju branch, involved completely removing the old, damaged roof wrap and replacing it with new Avery gloss black vinyl. The process took approximately 4-5 hours. While the original content mentions a cost of 400,000-700,000 Korean Won for a domestic mid-size car, pricing for an Audi S7 may vary.

This Article Covers:
① Pre-installation Condition Assessment
② Surface Preparation and Cleaning
③ Masking and Main Installation
④ Finishing and Final Inspection
⑤ Roof Wrap Maintenance Tips

Assessing the Pre-Installation Damage

Upon inspecting the existing roof wrap, signs of lifting at the edges, peeling on the surface, and creasing were evident. After 3 years of exposure to rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations, the adhesive had completely lost its grip. The car's roof is a prime target for environmental factors; it concentrates UV rays on clear days and retains moisture on cloudy days, significantly shortening the lifespan of the wrap material.

Surface Preparation: The Crucial First Step

Before applying a new roof wrap, thorough vehicle cleaning is paramount. After the car was brought into the booth, the entire roof was meticulously washed. This is followed by pre-treatment and degreasing. It's crucial to go beyond visible dust and oils. For wraps and PPF installations, degreasing must be done meticulously using tools in hidden areas like edges, curves, and crevices. Skipping this step often leads to future issues like lifting or peeling, requiring post-installation service (AS).

The edges of the roof are particularly prone to retaining moisture. While it takes more time, this meticulous attention to detail is the secret to a roof wrap that lasts over 3 years.

Masking: Setting the Stage for Precision

Once the surface treatment is complete, masking begins. This involves precisely covering the roof's edges, corners, and curved areas with tape. Improper masking can result in the vinyl adhering to unintended areas or cause unevenness along the edges.

For this installation, Avery gloss black film was chosen. The gloss finish provides a vibrant, reflective black that enhances the luxurious feel of the aluminum roof. After masking, the film application commenced systematically.

The Application Process: A Continuous Act of Precision

With masking complete, the actual wrapping begins. The Avery film is cut to the roof's dimensions and then slowly adhered from one end. The key is to use a heat gun (around 70-75°C) to warm the film, ensuring its elasticity and achieving a bubble-free, tight seal.

The Audi S7's roof features smooth curves, necessitating a curved surface application technique rather than a simple straight-line method. Rushing can lead to wrinkles or air pockets. The process requires steady hands, using a heat gun in one and a squeegee (application tool) in the other, working slowly and deliberately.

In terms of time, the entire process from cleaning to final application takes about 2-3 hours. Areas with complex curves require extra time to ensure quality is prioritized over speed.