The following forms of damage are common signs that it may be time to repair or replace your vinyl wrap!
Fading
The colors on your vinyl wrap may fade over time if it is consistently exposed to direct sunlight. Parking under cover or in shade can reduce damage, but a small amount of fading is likely to occur due to daily driving. This is especially true if you have a long commute. A faded wrap can negatively impact the impression you leave on customers and make text difficult to read while reducing appeal. If you notice signs of significant fading, it is worth looking into repairs or a replacement. Since all fleet graphics vinyl that Indy Auto Graphics uses has a life expectancy of 5-7 years, you’ll still get a lot of miles out of your wrap!
Peeling or Cracking
Vinyl wraps can start to peel due to impacts, external tears, or dirt building up under the edges. Improper washing with a pressure washer or high-pressure car wash can also cause your wrap to peel, so it is important to stick to recommended cleaning methods. Peeling can quickly transition from mild to severe, so it is important to repair a peeling wrap quickly and prevent the need for a full replacement.
Cracking can be caused by extended sun exposure without proper replacement, this can cause paint staining and damage to the clear coat. If your vinyl is showing signs of cracking or peeling, please replace as soon as possible.
Stains
If fluids such as coffee, cola, fuel or juice are spilled on your vinyl wrap and are not immediately cleaned, this may cause stains. Stains can also occur due to insects, bird droppings, or tree sap if they are not cleaned from your car’s surface right away. Once stains set in, they can be extremely difficult to remove. If a large stain or several smaller stains have appeared on your vinyl wrap, it may be time to have it repaired or replaced.
Indy Auto Graphics recommends examining your vehicle wraps every 3 years for replacement needs. Horizontal surfaces, perforated vinyl and cut lettering will begin to show wear and tear first and can be easy replacements if caught early enough. Cracking and peeling vinyl can cause increased removal fees as it becomes more difficult to cleanly remove the vinyl and adhesive from the vehicle. If you are in need of a vehicle wrap inspection or recommendation for repairs/replacements, please contact us at info@indyautographics.com as soon as possible to schedule your free inspection.