Your investment in vehicle graphics needs to be proactively cared for in order to obtain maximum value.
These simple tips could make all the difference and add years to the life of your graphics.
Hand Washing
- Soften difficult contaminants such as bug splatter, bird droppings and tree sap by soaking them for several minutes in hot soapy water
- Rinse thoroughly and dry
- Do not use rough scrubbing or abrasive tools which will scratch the film
- Wash and rinse off all residue immediately
- For best results use a non abrasive detergent and a soft, clean cloth or sponge
- Always rinse thoroughly with clean water – to reduce water spotting, immediately remove any water droplets with a clean microfibre cloth
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is not recommended when caring for your vehicle graphics. If you use a water blaster on your graphics you risk lifting their edges which will ruin them.
If you do still want to use a water blaster, you can reduce the risk of damaging your graphics by keeping the nozzle at least 400mm away from the vehicle. Also ensure you keep the nozzle perpendicular to the graphics to minimise the impact on the edge of the graphics.
Automated carwashes are also not recommended as strong jets of water and harsh brushes can scratch or lift your graphics. If you must use a carwash, we strongly recommend using a brushless option whenever possible.
Polishing
We do not recommend using wax polishes on vehicle graphics.
There are specialty vinyl treatments available in the form of sealants and enhancers – if you are interested, please ask us for further details.
No polish is recommended for matte or textured films. For these products polish tends to fill in the inherent texture of the film’s surface and can cause the film to develop a haze.
Vehicle Storage
Vinyl graphics (just like paint) are degraded by prolonged exposure to sun and pollution,
particularly on the horizontal surfaces such as hood, boot lid and roof.
Whenever possible, store your vehicle in a garage or at least in a shaded area during the day.
Caring for your vehicle graphics is not complicated – it is just a matter of following these few simple steps and avoiding some traps. A small amount of time put into looking after your vehicle signage will pay dividends by keeping your vehicle looking good for much longer.
….. how to care for magnetic vehicle graphics? Please check out our article
…… for advice on removal of vehicle graphics, please click here to access our video on the subject.
