Care and Maintenance of Your Vehicle Wrap and Graphics
Care and Maintenance of Your Vehicle Wrap and Graphics
Let’s be real and admit that vehicle wraps are basically just mobile billboards for your business or organization. They work for you 365 days a year, have a recall rate of 97%, and have a stunningly low cost of only $.77 per 1,000 impressions. And since your bus or van is larger than many of the other vehicles on the road and is normally traveling daily through your territory, it shines like a beacon with your chosen message to the customers you are targeting the most. In other words, vehicle wraps are something that you absolutely must take advantage of.
Once you spend the money on the wrap, whether it’s a full body graphics package or just your company logo, you want to protect it to make it last as long as possible. Vinyl graphics don’t last forever due to the sun, weather, pollution, and other factors. However, there are steps you can take that will prolong taking your vehicle in for a graphics refresh.
Wash Regularly
Regular washing of at least once weekly will help remove any dirt or pollutants to keep your wrap looking fresh and stop any discoloration or staining before it happens. We recommend using an automotive sponge, and some gentle automotive detergent. There are special brands like 3M and Meguiar’s that produce products specifically designed for vinyl wraps, but any gentle cleaner will work. Do not use a high pressure, focused spray nozzle over 2000 psi and never drive through an automated car wash unless it is brushless. For spot cleaning you can use Simple Green or isopropyl rubbing alcohol, then rinse with cold water. Avoid wiping the wrap when it is hot, so it doesn’t distort the material and cause wrinkling.
Remove Stains Promptly
Bird droppings, insect impacts, tree sap, and many other hazardous stains can begin to deteriorate your wrap immediately, so the sooner you can clean them, the better your wrap will look and the longer it will last. For stubborn contaminants, use denatured alcohol, 3M® Citrus Base Cleaner, Meguiar’s Gold Class™ Bug and Stain Remover or two parts isopropyl alcohol to one part water. Always test these solutions on a small area that’s not easily noticeable to ensure the cleaner will not harm the wrap. DO NOT use solvents or oil-based cleaning products! For oil or fuel spills, handwash the affected area and wipe with a clean cloth until you can get somewhere to clean it more thoroughly.
Protect From the Elements
Excessive amounts of time under the sun or other outdoor elements (rain, smog, debris, and road pollutants from passing cars) can degrade the wrap on the roof, trunk lid and hood. These horizontal areas are a magnet for pollutants, which are intensified by UV ray exposure. Try your best to park your car in a garage or under a canopy or shelter. If you must park it outside for prolonged periods, look for shady parking areas. The downside to parking under trees is the probability of debris, bird and insect droppings, and tree sap.
Never Use the Following Products:
-Solvents
-Oil-based cleaners
-Kitchen & Bathroom Cleaners
-Oven cleaner
-Orange Oil
-Engine Degreaser
With a little planning and a little regular maintenance, your wrap on your bus or van should last 5 to 7 years, depending on exposure to the elements and other factors. If you need a “Graphics Refresh” on your bus, van, or even car or truck, visit our website to learn more about the options available at https://www.hudsonbussales.com/check-more-about--bus-graphics