In addition to keeping the vehicle and such looking good, regular cleaning of graphics is important because it can help prolong the life of the graphics. This is especially important in areas of high elevation and congested urban or industrial areas.
At high elevations, such as mountain areas, the UV damage is increased versus exposure at sea level. Because the air is thinner and there is lees UV filtering, damage increase significantly.
In congested urban or industrial areas, increased smog, pollutants and particulates in the atmosphere will cause reduce durability on the horizontal areas of the wrap. The horizontal areas trap the chemicals on the surface of the material and the increased UV exposure results in shorter durability.
These effects can be reduced with regular cleaning which will remove pollutants and particulates that can damage the wrap. Contaminants allowed to remain on the graphics may be more difficult to remove during cleaning. Apply an approved wax such as Turtle Wax Ice, after cleaning, this will help to provide added UV protection, especially for the horizontal areas.
The following practices will help maintain the life and quality of the vinyl film:
Wash applied vinyl graphics with a blend of clean water and mild care wash or detergent.
For vehicles not overly dirty, waterless washes are a good option.
Waxing is optional, although we recommend waxing with Turtle Wax Ice once every 3 months or similar product. This will help keep your wrap protected from the elements.
Test any cleaning or wax solution on a small section of the vinyl graphic before using.
Always read the warning labels on car care products for proper safety instructions.
Use soft cotton, microfiber sponge, silicone squeegee or microfiber cloths.
Either let the vehicle air dry or dry off with a microfiber cloth, being careful not to lift edges.
Clean in a shaded area to reduce streaks.
The following practices will result in deterioration of the vinyl film:
Do not allow fuels to stay in contact with the vinyl for extended periods of time. Clean all spills as soon as possible.
Do not use automated car washes, truck washes or pressure washers to clean your vehicle.
Do not use brush washing.
If you choose to wax, hand wax only. Do not use a buffer.
Do not use wax on matte wraps.
Do not use waxes containing petroleum distillates.
Do not park under trees for long periods of time. Sap from certain trees can damage the graphics.
Rinse the graphic with water to wash away any loose sediments, dust or dirt using your garden hose with spray nozzle attachment.
Mix together water and mild car wash detergent into your bucket. Make sure the bucket is free of dirt and small rocks as these will scratch your carl and or vinyl graphics.
Soak your sponge with water and soap mixture.
Clean the graphic starting from the top working down to the bottom. This will allow the dirty, contaminated water to run downward.
Rinse the graphic with clean water using the hose with spray nozzle attachment.
Once the graphic is rinsed off with water, allow to air dry. You may also use a microfiber cloth to dry the graphic.
Once dry, for added protection, you may apply a polish designed for vehicle graphics. Read and follow manufactures directions and suggestions for frequency.
How to Remove Difficult Pollutants or Debris
When normal cleaning procedures don't work to remove difficult debris from your applied vehicle graphics such as, bird droppings, bug splatter, tree sap, tar etc., try the following:
Try to soften them by soaking several minutes with hot, soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.
Spot clean the area with Isopropyl Alcohol diluted with 50% water and a microfiber rag.
Recommended Products: Meguiar's Gold Class Bud and Tar Remover or 3M Citrus Base Cleaner
If a harsher chemical is needed, be sure to test in an inconspicuous area.
Avoid using abrasive tools that may scratch the graphics.
Wash and rinse off all residue immediately.
It is relatively inexpensive to replace window graphics. Never compromise safety. Always ensure maximum visibility.
Avoid using the rear windshield wiper and only use when absolutely necessary, as it will scratch and damage over time.
It's best to clean any grime and sediment from your rear window with a wet squeegee to avoid scratching or damage.
Avoid using your rear defroster, use only when absolutely necessary as it can potentially reduce the lifespan of the perforated window film.
Avoid frequent rolling of windows with graphics in order to avoid scratching and damage.
Do not use and ice scraper on any window that is covered with vinyl specialty perforated window film as it could scratch and damage the graphics.
Wash graphics with a blend of clean water and a mild car wash or detergent. Test any cleaning solution on a small section of the vinyl graphic before using. Always read the warning labels on car care products for proper safety instructions. Once you've washed the vehicle with a soapy water blend, rinse with clean water.
Pressure washing should only be used when no other cleaning methods are available. Keep the following in mind while performing this type of cleaning.
Repeated pressure washing can cause the vinyl graphics to lift around the edges and peel away from the vehicle, window etc. Especially if the spray is at a sharp angle to the vinyl edge.
Over time, pressure washing can degrade the face film, causing the graphic to lose its luster, fade, crack and even chip away from the substrate.
To prolong the life of the applied vinyl graphics when choosing to pressure wash, consider the following (based on vertical application):
Water temperature: 67 degrees F - 77 degrees F
Spray nozzle opening: 40 degree wide pattern
Angle of graphic: 90 degree (perpendicular)
Distance from graphic: 15"
Water pressure: less than or equal to 800 PSI
Length of time: 30 seconds
Aim the spray pattern at a slight angle to the edge of the vinyl graphic.
Under no circumstances should a turbo pressure nozzle or like be used.
This information is based on our knowledge and experience. We have not explained all aspects of application. Specialized or occupational knowledge and competence of a professional sign maker are presupposed. Due to the diversity of potential influencing factors during application and use, we recommend customer test products when the films will be used for special applications. No legally binding warranty or certain qualities can be derived from our information.