We’ve been talking about vehicle wraps and their cost-efficiency in terms of advertising space and message. But what makes a vehicle wrap work? What gives it the four-year life expectancy?
A vehicle wrap lasts for two reasons: the preparation and application are done properly and the materials are durable. First, be sure your vehicle is ready for the application. For best results, the surface of the vehicle must be clean. It’s a good idea to use a commercial detergent and water as well as a solvent to make sure there is no oily residue on the vehicle. Many vehicle wrap manufacturers have cleaning instructions specific to their materials, so make sure your sign professional reviews them. The surface must also be dry for better adherence. Ask your professional custom sign company what other preparation you or they will do prior to application. They will most likely use a template first, to be sure all the angles are correct and that the wrap lays properly around the corners of the vehicle.
As for materials, wraps are generally made from cast vinyl films to make application around curved surfaces easier. Calendered films are also used, but they should be reserved for flat areas and for short-term graphics, because they do not stand up to stress in the material. The films generally have built-in adhesives and can be repositioned easily. Long-lasting wraps use films that have air release channels to help eliminate bubbles. The vinyl wrap should be completed with an overlaminate that conforms easily to the vehicle’s shape and is flexible. The overlaminate gives the vehicle wrap protection from UV rays, weathering and abrasion from traveling in and around Harford County and Baltimore County.
With the proper preparation, application and materials, your vehicle wrap will be a valuable advertising investment.