A very Important step in the process of wrapping your vehicle is preparing your vehicle for wrapping. Proper prep-work is essential to make sure your wrap has a smooth and long-lasting finish.
Clean Your Vehicle Thoroughly: Start by giving your vehicle a thorough wash using a mild detergent and water. Pay close attention to areas where dirt, grease, or wax buildup may be present, such as around door handles, side mirrors, and crevices. Use a degreaser if necessary to remove stubborn contaminants.
Remove Any Existing Wax or Sealants: To ensure proper adhesion of the vinyl wrap, it’s important to remove any existing wax or sealants from the surface of your vehicle. You can do this by using a wax remover or a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water.
Inspect for Damages: Before proceeding further, carefully inspect your vehicle for any existing damages such as dents, scratches, or rust spots. Addressing these issues beforehand will ensure a smoother and more uniform appearance once the wrap is applied.
Repair Any Imperfections: If you find any dents, scratches, or rust spots during your inspection, it’s important to address them before wrapping your vehicle. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to seek professional help or use DIY repair kits to fix minor imperfections.
Remove Exterior Accessories: Prior to wrapping, remove any exterior accessories such as emblems, badges, license plates, and antennas. This will ensure that the wrap adheres properly to the surface of your vehicle and prevents any obstruction during the wrapping process.
Trim and Tuck Away Excess Material: For vehicles with intricate body contours or edges, it may be necessary to trim the vinyl wrap to fit properly. Carefully trim away any excess material using a sharp knife or blade, and tuck the edges neatly around the edges of the vehicle for a clean finish.
Ensure Proper Temperature and Humidity: Ideal wrapping conditions include moderate temperature and low humidity levels. Avoid wrapping your vehicle in extreme heat or cold, as this can affect the adhesive properties of the vinyl wrap and result in poor adhesion or wrinkling.
Prep the Surface with Alcohol Solution: Before applying the vinyl wrap, wipe down the surface of your vehicle with an alcohol solution to remove any remaining contaminants and ensure a clean, residue-free surface for optimal adhesion.
Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Finally, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations provided with the vinyl wrap product. Each product may have specific application techniques and curing times, so be sure to adhere to these guidelines for the best results.
