Heat Gun vs. Infrared Heater: Which Is Better For Vinyl Wrapping?

Heating is an important part of the vinyl wrapping process. This can be done using a heat gun or an infrared heater. The basic difference between the two is that a heat gun emits hot air typically through convection, whereas an infrared heater produces heat through electromagnetic radiation. 

You can use any of these to make the vinyl malleable for easy application around curves and activate its adhesive so it forms a strong bond with the body of your car. Let’s see which tool is better for vinyl wrapping: a heat gun or an infrared heater.

Difference Between A Heat Gun And An IR Heater

Both a heat gun and an IR heater can be used for installing a vinyl wrap, but we must understand how they differ from each other. Let’s find out:

Heat Gun For Vinyl Wrapping

A heat gun is the most commonly used tool during vinyl application. It emits a stream of hot air when powered on, raising the temperature of the object it is applied to, in this case, vinyl.

 If you are customizing your vehicle and giving it a new look with a high-quality vinyl wrap, a heat gun will be your best friend, allowing flawless installation. Following are the features of a heat gun:

• It comes with adjustable temperature settings so you can control the application of heat, thus preventing scorching of the material. 

• You can also get an adjustable airflow setting on a heat gun. This allows flexibility in performing different tasks during vinyl installation, such as stretching and smoothing out the film.

• A good quality heat gun has a powerful wattage, giving it a fast heat-up time and making vinyl application efficient and speedy. 

• It comes with a corrosion-proof nozzle that allows the heat gun to give a long-lasting performance.   

• It also has an overheat protection mechanism that prevents malfunctioning and allows safe operation. 

• It has a robust housing that can handle extended use, contributing to its durability. 

IR Heater For Vinyl Wrapping

An IR heater converts electrical energy into radiant heat and then emits it to raise the temperature of the vinyl.

This is another device that can be used while installing vinyl to your car, helping you eliminate bubbles and creases and allowing even heat application to a larger area. Here are some of its features:

• An IR heater reduces energy consumption. 

• It heats up rapidly, making the vinyl installation process faster. 

• An infrared heater works quietly. It does not produce a sound when being used. 

• Like a heat gun, it is also equipped with an overheat sensor that helps safe usage.

• It has adjustable heat settings too so you can raise the temperature as much as you want. 

Heat Gun vs IR Heater: Which Option is Better?

A heat gun or an IR heater which one should you use when you are vinyl wrapping your vehicle? We recommend using a heat gun. Why? Because a heat gun offers focused heat application on targeted areas which is important for vinyl application. 

You can apply controlled heat to a certain part making it malleable and easy to conform. It can reach temperatures up to 1,200°F (650°C) and is easy to carry around. It also comes in a cordless variant. Best of all, heat guns are affordable hence always a good, handy option when it comes to vinyl installation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the best heat gun for vinyl wrapping?

The best heat gun for vinyl wrapping is the one that allows temperature and airflow adjustments, has an anti-rust nozzle and digital display, and is compact and portable. We recommend buying the Oshark Smart Digital Display Vehicle Wrap Heat Gun. 

Q. What is the heat gun vs infrared heater vinyl wrapping cost?

A good heat gun costs less than $100 and can go up to $200. An infrared heater is more expensive with the initial cost starting from $150 and can go up to $700.  

Q. Where can I buy a heat gun for vinyl wrap near me?

To buy a heat gun for vinyl wrapping, visit the Oshark online store—a one-stop solution for all your premium-quality car customization tools at affordable prices. 

Q. Can you use a heat gun on vinyl wrap?

Yes, a heat gun is excellent to use during vinyl installation. It is a handy tool that allows even distribution of heat on the vinyl with adjustable heat and airflow settings. 

The Final Word

We have mentioned everything you need to know about a heat gun and IR heater. If you want to wrap your car, choose a heat gun to make the application process easy and accurate. For a high-grade heat gun or any other tools that you need to replenish your kit, visit the Oshark online store. Our tools give long-lasting performance and since we deliver internationally, they will reach your door in no time.