The decision to buy Hexis chrome film is often the result of a long search for a material that combines mirror shine, high elasticity and durability. Unlike cheap Chinese analogues, French polyvinyl chloride Hexis guarantees the absence of an “orange peel” effect and stable color over the entire surface of the roll. Consumers choose this brand when they need to not only change the color of their car, but also get a coating that can withstand the aggressive effects of road chemicals and ultraviolet radiation without fading.
In the modern car accessories market, it is important to distinguish between real catalog numbers and marketing names, since materials with low adhesion of the adhesive layer can be sold under the guise of premium chrome. Hexis Bodyfence and specialized series Hex'Chrome designed using unique technologies that prevent the formation of bubbles when heated. Before placing an order, you must make sure that you are purchasing original products certified by the manufacturer, and not warehouse remains with violated storage conditions.
The cost per square meter of high-quality chrome vinyl can vary depending on the chosen texture: glossy chrome, matte chrome or “liquid metal” effect. When purchasing material for body wrapping, it is important to consider not only the price, but also the availability of technical support from the supplier, since working with mirror films requires professional skills. Cutting errors or overheating can lead to irreversible loss of decorative properties, so choosing a reliable supplier is the first step to successful tuning.
Technical characteristics and benefits of Hexis materials
French company Hexis has established itself as a manufacturer of the highest class materials using advanced technologies in the production of polyvinyl chloride films. The base material is molded PVC, which has excellent dimensional stability and does not shrink over time, which is critical for large body surfaces. Adhesive layer Hex'Press provides easy gluing during installation, allowing you to adjust the position of the canvas without the risk of damaging the car's paintwork.
Chrome series are distinguished by a special multi-layer coating, which creates an effect of depth and specularity that is not available for conventional color films. Technology Air Channel, built into the structure of the adhesive layer, allows air to be expelled without the use of sharp tools, minimizing the risk of scratches on the mirror surface. This makes the material more forgiving for craftsmen, although working with chrome still requires high qualifications.
- ✨ High resistance to ultraviolet radiation prevents yellowing and dulling of the chrome layer even after several years of use in the open sun.
- 🛡️ A special protective varnish surface (Top Coat) protects soft chrome from minor mechanical damage, dust and aggressive chemicals.
- 🌡️ A wide temperature range of operation allows the film to be used in the extreme north and hot climates without cracking or peeling.
It is important to note that chrome films Hexis have a certain thickness that helps hide minor defects in the base coat, such as microscratches or “cobwebs”. However, to achieve an ideal visual effect, the surface must be carefully prepared. The material is inert to most car washes, but manufacturers recommend avoiding the use of abrasive polishes and stiff bristled brushes.
⚠️ Attention: Chrome films have less elasticity compared to matte or glossy color counterparts. Do not try to overstretch the material on complex curved surfaces without pre-heating, as this can lead to rupture of the metal coating and the appearance of “gray” spots.
Review of popular series: which chrome film to choose
Assortment Hexis offers several options for chrome coatings, each of which has its own unique properties and applications. The choice of a specific series depends on the desired visual effect and the type of elements to be pasted. The most popular series is Hex'Chrome, which is presented in a classic silver design and imitates polished metal with high precision.
For those looking for a more extravagant solution, a series is available in a color tone such as gold or bronze chrome. These materials are often used to highlight individual interior or exterior details, such as wheels, moldings or interior trim. The series deserves special attention Black Chrome, which creates the effect of a dark, blued metal and looks especially aggressive in combination with a black body.
When choosing between different series, you should pay attention to the coefficient of retroreflection and the degree of specularity. Some films give a softer, satin sheen, while others create an absolute mirror effect. Catalog number material usually contains information about the series and color, which makes it easier to find an exact match when purchasing additional material.
| Film series | Surface type | Features | Recommended Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hex'Chrome Silver | Glossy, mirror | Maximum shine, classic look | Full body wrap, wheels |
| Hex'Chrome Gold | Glossy, metallic | Warm shade, high hiding power | Decorative elements, interior |
| Black Chrome | Semi-gloss, dark | Blued steel effect, depth | Hoods, roofs, spoilers |
| Satin Chrome | Matte, silky | No glare, soft glow | Interior, thresholds, pillars |
Each series is supplied in standard rolls of a certain width, which allows you to minimize the number of joints when gluing large elements. When calculating the required amount of material, you should always take a margin of 10-15% for trimming and possible errors when cutting, especially if you plan to paste over complex shapes.
Where to buy original Hexis film and how not to run into a fake
The question of where to buy Hexis chrome film is especially acute due to the presence of counterfeit products on the market. The original material is supplied in original packaging with protective holograms and markings containing the batch number and production date. It is recommended to buy expensive materials only from official dealers or specialized auto tuning stores with a long reputation.
Online platforms offer a wide selection, but the risk of encountering an unscrupulous seller is higher here. Check the availability of certificates of conformity on the supplier’s website and the possibility of returning goods if defective. Original film never sold loose without original packaging unless it is a remnant roll from a reputable wrapping service provider.
Upon receipt of your order, immediately check the integrity of the ends of the roll. If the cardboard core is deformed or creases are visible at the edges of the film, there is a high probability that the material was stored incorrectly, which could affect the properties of the adhesive layer.
Price range for products Hexis quite high, so too low a price should be alarming. Often, under the guise of “promotions” and “sales”, materials with an expired shelf life or manufacturing defects that cannot be assembled efficiently are sold. The shelf life of the film is usually 2-3 years from the production date if stored correctly.
- 🔍 Carefully study the manufacturer’s logo on the packaging: on fakes there are often errors in fonts or color shifts when printing the label.
- 📦 Make sure the film is wrapped around a rigid cardboard or plastic sleeve to prevent deformation during transportation.
- 📄 Request a receipt and a warranty card, which indicates the article number of the purchased material and the date of purchase - this is necessary to make claims.
⚠️ Attention: Avoid purchasing Hexis film from open markets or unheated warehouses during winter. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures can make the adhesive layer brittle and lead to its peeling immediately after the material thaws.
Instructions for surface preparation and installation of chrome film
The process of covering a car with chrome film requires careful preparation and adherence to temperature conditions. The body surface must be absolutely clean, grease-free and dry. Any wax, silicone or bitumen stains should be removed using a special cleaner such as Hexis HeXis Clean or an alcohol-based analogue.
Installation should be carried out in a room with an air temperature of at least +18°C and no drafts that could introduce dust under the sticky layer. The film must be preheated with a hairdryer to a temperature of 40-50°C to activate the adhesive layer and increase the elasticity of the vinyl. You should work with clean nitrile gloves so as not to leave greasy marks on the mirror surface.
☑️ Checklist before starting pasting
When gluing large canvases, use the “wet” or “dry” installation method, depending on the recommendations for a particular series. For chrome, the dry method is often used, using a squeegee with a soft felt coating to avoid scratching the face layer. Movements should be smooth, from the center to the edges, with gradual removal of air.
Recommended heating temperature during installation: 90°C - 110°COperating temperature: -40°C to +80°C
Minimum application temperature: +10°C
After pasting is completed, it is necessary to give the material time for the glue to polymerize, which ranges from 24 to 48 hours. During this period, it is not recommended to wet the car or subject it to mechanical stress. The edges of the film can be additionally heated and rolled for reliable fixation.
Caring for chrome plating and eliminating defects
Chrome film Hexis, despite its strength, requires careful care to maintain a presentable appearance. The main enemy of mirror surfaces is microscratches, which can dull the finish over time. To wash your car, you should use only soft sponges, microfiber and shampoos without abrasive particles.
Periodically, it is recommended to treat the surface with special protective compounds for vinyl films, which create an additional hydrophobic layer. This will make it easier to remove dirt and insects and also protect against ultraviolet radiation. Prohibited Use solvents, gasoline, acetone or aggressive alkaline chemicals to clean stains.
How to remove small scratches on chrome?
Minor surface scratches on chrome film can sometimes be removed by gently heating it with a hairdryer. Heat the damaged area to about 100°C (be careful not to overheat!) and rub gently with a soft cloth. Heat helps the polymers in the film “heal” minor damage. Deep cuts cannot be repaired.
For stubborn stains such as bitumen or glue, use specialized bitumen stain cleaners after testing them in an inconspicuous area. If the film begins to peel off at the edges, do not try to glue it with superglue - use an adhesion activator and heating to reactivate the factory adhesive layer.
- 🚿 Wash your car only using a touchless wash method or two buckets using plenty of water.
- 🧽 Do not rub a dry and dusty surface so as not to turn dust into an abrasive that leaves scratches.
- 🚫 Avoid automatic car washes with hard brushes, which are guaranteed to leave a “cobweb” on mirror chrome.
⚠️ Attention: Never use polishing machines with abrasive pastes on chrome film. This will lead to instant and irreversible damage to the decorative layer and loss of the mirror effect.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does Hexis chrome film last on a car?
With proper use and care, the service life of high-quality chrome film Hexis ranges from 3 to 5 years. In an aggressive urban environment or frequent high-pressure washing, the period may be reduced to 2-3 years. The manufacturer's warranty period is usually 2 years against defects in material.
Is it possible to polish chrome film?
It is strictly forbidden to polish chrome film with abrasive pastes. Only protective waxes, detailing sprays or ceramic coatings for vinyl (1-2 layers) that do not contain solvents or abrasives are allowed. This will help maintain shine and make cleaning easier.
Will traces of glue remain after removing the film?
Original film Hexis with glue Hex'Press can be removed without any adhesive residue during the warranty period (usually up to 5 years) provided that it has not been subjected to extreme overheating. If the film has stood for more than 7-10 years, the adhesive layer may polymerize and special cleaners will be required to remove it.
Will chrome film hide scratches on the body?
The film has a certain thickness and can hide minor surface scratches (cobwebs) and abrasions. However, the film will not hide deep chips down to metal or dents, and in some cases it can even emphasize the relief. Before pasting, it is better to sand and tint deep defects.
Does chrome wrap affect GPS and radio signals?
The metallized layer of chrome film can shield radio signals. If the GPS or radio antenna is located under a covered element (for example, a film on the roof above the antenna), the reception quality may deteriorate. In such cases, craftsmen make special cutouts for the antennas or take them outside.
Purchasing Genuine Hexis Wrap from a trusted supplier is an investment in the durability and appearance of your vehicle. Saving on material often leads to additional costs for re-gluing and restoration of paintwork.