Finally bought a roll of 8518

[grafixemporium]

After 4 years of wrapping cars with 180cv3 and 8519, I finally broke down and bought a roll of 8518. According to a 3M rep, they now offer the same warranty on the 8518 as they do on 8519. I was surprised to see a clear plastic backing on the roll. Does it always come that way? 8519 is always on wax coated paper.

 

[FatCat]

I've been using it for 2+ years now and it's always been like that. BTW - love it, looks great.

 

[Malkin]

Yep always. I think that's a common trait of optically clear laminates

We have been using it for maybe 3 years. I just tried a roll of 8519 this summer instead, hoping it would be a good in-between so we wouldn't need to stock both gloss & matte, but I just didn't like it all all (kinda mottled looking), so back to 8518 & 8520 for now.

 

[Typestries]

The plastic liner gives the 8518 it's optically clear properties. All that plastic sucks IMO but is a trade off to the optically clear properties. We have had an incredibly positive response to the finish it provides. The high gloss isn't for everyone, but when used properly really makes the wrap pop.

 

[Malkin]

The mottled look isn't supposed to be there......

So.....moral of the story is, don't judge one roll of 8519 by it's mottling!

I personally like the "in the middle" lustre finish....gives it a more real finish instead of too dull or too shiny...if that makes sense.

Good to know.
Thanks!