wrap care Archives - Indy Auto Graphics - Vehicle Wraps - Paint Protection Film - Ceramic Coating

3 Types of Wrap Damage to Watch For

Lindsay — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 18:09:20 +0000

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.

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Protecting Your Vinyl Car Wrap in Winter

Lindsay — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:45:08 +0000

As temperatures start to drop and the chance of snow increases, vehicle care and maintenance become more important than ever. This is especially true for vinyl car wraps as many seasonal hazards are only present in winter. Road salt, sand, and ice are just some examples of the hazards that are present during this season. Proper awareness of these hazards and knowing how to handle them is crucial for protecting your vinyl car wrap in winter. That is why the experts at Indy Auto Graphics have compiled a list of ways to protect your car wrap from freezing conditions and other prominent hazards.

1. Clean Your Vehicle Often

Rain and snow fall in much higher volumes throughout winter, leaving dirt and other deposits on your wrap over time. Be sure to clean your vehicle every two weeks with a wet cloth and soap to remove this debris as it can cause damage to your wrap if it gets under the surface or between sections. Though regular cleaning is important, be sure to avoid washing your car in freezing conditions as this can cause ice to form on your vehicle or in your driveway. We recommend not using automated car wash, unless touchless, as the high-powered sprayers and brushes can damage your wrap.

2. Do Not Let Snow Turn into Ice

Snow that is left on the surface of your vehicle may turn to ice overnight. This ice can stick to the vinyl and become extremely difficult to remove without damaging your wrap. If any snow starts to build up on your vehicle, be sure to brush it off as soon as possible.

3. Avoid Scrapers

While scrapers are great for removing ice from your windows, they should never be used on a vinyl wrap as they can puncture it or cause it to start peeling. If you need to remove ice from the surface of your vehicle, a soft brush is often the best option.

4. Be Mindful of Road Salt and Sand

Driving in snowy conditions often means driving through road salt and sand. These substances can get stuck to your vehicle’s wheels, wheel wells, and undercarriage, potentially damaging vital components. If salt lands on your vinyl wrap, it can quickly start to corrode it and leave lasting damage. Once your vehicle is safely parked, be sure to use a soft brush to remove all substances from the surface of your vehicle.

To learn more about protecting your vinyl wrap and effective maintenance techniques, get in touch with the experts at Indy Auto Graphics. Our team can be reached through our online contact form or through email and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services.

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