The short answer
Gloss looks like new paint and is the easiest to keep clean. Satin has a soft sheen that shows off the shape of the car. Matte has no shine at all and makes the boldest statement, but it needs the most care. All three last about the same, 5 to 8 years.
Gloss
Gloss is shiny, like a fresh paint job. Most people won't notice the car is wrapped. Dirt rinses off easily and the colours look deep. It's the usual choice for commercial wraps and the safest pick if you're not sure.
Satin
Satin sits between gloss and matte: a smooth, low sheen. It shows the curves and lines of a car without reflecting everything around it, and it hides small marks a little better than gloss. It's a popular choice for colour changes.
Matte
Matte has no reflection at all, which makes a colour look flat and modern. It shows fingerprints and oily marks more, and you can't polish or wax it: that leaves shiny patches. Wash it gently and dry it with a clean microfibre towel.
Colours and special films
We use 3M and Avery, in gloss, satin and matte, plus metallics and other special finishes. Some colours and finishes cost more than others. Ask to see samples: a colour can look quite different in the sun than on a screen.
What it costs
A full colour change at our shop usually costs $4,500 to $7,000 plus HST, depending on the vehicle, and more for some vehicles. It takes three to four days, sometimes five. You can also do parts, like a roof, a hood or mirror caps, in a different finish.
