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Perfecting Surface Prep Before Wrapping a Vehicle

December 14, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Perfecting Surface Prep Before Wrapping a Vehicle

Are you ready to wrap?

Vehicle wraps are a great way to advertise a business or add flair to a plain-looking car, van, or truck. A very important part in beginning the process is preparing the surface. The last thing you want is a shoddy-looking finish for your vehicle wrap or a small particle of dirt to disturb the adhesion process. Here are the simple and straightforward steps to get your vehicle prepared.

Step 1: Overall General Cleaning

Your vehicle needs a general overall clean with basic mild soap and water. All wax and debris must be removed from the surface. Hand washing is the best method. Use a microfiber cloth with a mixture of a general dish soap mixed in a large bucket of water.

Step 2: Cracks and Corners

Pay extra attention to those cracks and corners when cleaning the surface. This will help the wrap to adhere properly when all those little faults are scrubbed and smoothed out.

Missing a fault can cause the wrap adhesive to fail, which then costs even more time and money to get it right. Take the time to thoroughly go over the entire surface to avoid costly errors or having to start the process again.

Step 3: Cleaning Solution

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the entire surface, a cleaning solution should be applied. Mix equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water to make the solution. Spray directly onto the surface and immediately wipe with a lint-free cloth. This solution completely cleans the surface of soap, water, or any remaining dirt.

Step 4: Dry

Using another microfiber cloth, it is now time to dry the surface completely. It’s a good idea to take the time needed to dry all over the vehicle. Once your vehicle is totally dry, you’re all set to wrap.

Follow these simple and easy steps to prepare your vehicle for a sleek wrap that hugs all the curves and corners without any lumps or bumps. This is a time-consuming job, but it will be well worth it for the finished product. Cutting corners, such as not making sure the vehicle surface is completely clean, will result in the wrap not adhering properly to the surface.

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