Tips for Starting a Successful Business

Vehicle Wrap Tips and Tricks

9 July 2015 by Brianna Cole

These days, vinyl vehicle wraps have become one of the best ways for businesses to reach their customers. After all, it's hard to not notice a car or delivery truck decked out in an eye-catching wrap with a company's logo and information on it. Presentation plays a big role in attracting attention and for converting onlookers into potential customers. Here are some vehicle wrap installation tips to keep your graphics neat and presentable.

Ensure a Perfect Fit First

It's always a good idea to measure out exactly where your film is supposed to go before removing the film backing. Try taping the wrap onto the exterior of the vehicle to get an idea of its intended positioning. This gives you an opportunity to double-check your work before the vinyl wrapping process gains steam.

Cleanliness is Next to Stickiness

Vinyl film absolutely hates being applied onto dirty surfaces. Just because a car looks clean doesn't mean it's actually clean, so it's a good idea to give any vehicle you're working on a quick yet thorough washing with a high-quality detergent before applying the wrap. This will help knock off any dirt that finds its way onto the paint finish prior to wrapping.

You'll also want to remove any grease, wax, or oils from the vehicle's finish with a paint-friendly solvent, especially immediately prior to applying the wrap. When using solvents, make sure you test a small, inconspicuous area to avoid any damage to the vehicle's paint finish.

Keep Those Temperatures under Control

According to graphics specialist Molly Waters, an optimal temperature range of around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for installing wraps under controlled conditions. These temperatures also allow the vinyl film to remain soft and pliable enough for installation. Higher temperatures could cause the film to stretch more during repositioning and increase the adhesive tenacity of the wrap.

Cut Before You Wrap

Don't assume that you can make very light cuts around headlights and other portions of the vehicle without leaving a scratch. In most cases, the complete opposite occurs and you're left with a damaged paint finish. This is why it's usually recommended to have most, if not all, of the major vehicle wrap components already measured and cut.

If you must cut around doors, windows, and lights after installing the bulk of the film, be extraordinarily careful as you cut. If need be, make two to three very faint passes instead of risking paint damage with a single cut.

If you want to use a vinyl car wrap  or other signage for your business, find a sign installation company near you, such as Cardinal Sign.

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