Whether you have custom boat wraps or vehicle wraps, you need to know how to wash your wrap correctly. Also important is how to properly maintain it so your design lasts several years. You purchased your car wrap for an important reason, most likely to promote your business.
Although they’re designed to be temporary, wraps can last many years. This is especially true if you had your vehicle or boat wrapped by AdGraphics, the pioneers in car wrapping. Let’s look at a few of the best ways to clean and maintain your wrap correctly to extend its life expectancy.
Use Surface Protection
Even our wraps won’t be as tough as car paint. Vinyl wraps are much softer and can get damaged easier. Just like your car, the vinyl wrap requires surface protection to ensure long-lasting wear. We recommend knowing what type of surface protection you will use before you even get your vehicle or boat wrapped. Not only does the surface coat protect your new vinyl wrap from the elements and other contaminants, but it also dictates how you will clean your wrap. There are many options on the market for surface protection, so do your research, ask around, and make your decision wisely.
The Cleaning Process
Proper cleaning techniques are equally as important as what surface protection you choose. You are going to hear a lot of contradictory statements about how best to wash your vinyl. Listen to all of it and then apply common sense. Our recommendations are as follows:
- Avoid automated carwashes – even if they are brushless. Automated washes that use brushes risk damaging your surface protection, while brushless water sprays are less effective than handwashing.
- Only use isopropyl alcohol for spot cleaning, not for washing the wrap. If you use it for spot cleaning, rinse the area with cold water after.
- When cleaning small areas, such as dried bird poop or stains, wipe them down with a microfiber cloth.
- If pressure washing, use the lowest setting (below 2,000 psi) and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the vehicle.
- Don’t rush the cleaning process. You don’t want to risk damaging the vehicle wrapping.
There are certain products that you should avoid using, no matter what anybody tells you. These are:
- Solvents
- Oil-based cleaners
- Kitchen/bathroom cleaners
- Orange oil
- Engine degreaser
Has Your Wrapping Turned Brown?
If your wrap has turned rust-colored or brown, this is probably due to excessive time outdoors, where it was exposed to air pollutants. You can prevent this from happening again by keeping your vehicle away from the elements for an increased period of time. If you can’t park your vehicle in a garage, find a shady area for protection. If you experience rusting/browning, it’s recommended to remove the vinyl wrap, so it doesn’t damage the paint underneath. You may not need to replace the entire wrap, just the panel(s) that was affected.
With proper maintenance and good cleaning techniques, you can ensure your wrap lasts longer to achieve its intended purpose.
Contact AdGraphics
Don’t take your vehicle or boat to the “other guys.” We’ve seen what they can do, and trust us, you don’t want it! Bring your vehicle or boat to the leader who pioneered the car wrapping business who has a 3M (written) warranty, and the experience and reputation to back it.
Our team will design and install beautiful graphics to your vehicle to increase brand awareness for your business or deliver an important message to the masses. For custom boat wraps and vehicle wraps in Florida, contact AdGraphics. Call (954) 974-9900 to learn more.