Over time there will be instances where you find that small areas of your graphics will require attention.
While Picture This Advertising uses the best materials and top-notch installation, in order to enjoy years of use, it’s important that you properly care for your graphics using the following tips.
It is always best to test any cleaning solution on a small, well-hidden section of the vinyl graphic before applying to highly visible areas.
Wash applied vinyl graphics with a blend of mild car wash detergent and clean water.
If a spray car wash is the only option (avoid “Touch-less” spray card washes), we recommend the use of one where the operator can control the pressure of the spray hitting the vehicle. Be cautious of areas around the door that handles moldings, mirrors, and glass. Use a sponge or rag to soap and clean the panels. Be extra gentle with window graphics, especially perforated vinyl film.
Once you’ve washed the vehicle with a soapy water blend, rinse with clean water.
Either let the vehicle air dry or dry off with a microfiber cloth.
Never put the nozzle directly on your wrap or against a seam – the vinyl could rip or tear. Never take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with bristles. The bristles can damage your vinyl wrap, which could lead to costly repairs.
- Regularly spray off any horizontal graphics such as hoods, roofs, & bed covers in order to remove dirt particles and debris that will be baked on by the sun.
- Hand-wax the vehicle. Never use a buffer. Wax the vehicle once every three months. This will add protection to the wrap. If possible, use a premium brand of wax that is safe for use with vinyl.
- Waxing will also help the removal process, allowing the vinyl to come off leaving little to no adhesive residue.
- Wax any perforated window vinyl that is part of the wrap. This will add to the longevity of the vinyl. Never use a high-pressure sprayer on perforated window vinyl AVOID:
- Avoid using the rear windshield wiper and only use when absolutely necessary, as it will scratch the laminate over time and reduce visibility. It is best to clean any grime and sediment off of your rear window with a wet squeegee to avoid scratching.
- Avoid spray car washes, if it’s the only option (avoid “Touch-less” spray card washes), we recommend use of one where the operator can control the pressure of the spray hitting the vehicle. Be cautious of areas around door handles moldings, mirrors and glass. Be cautioned that evidence of pressure-washing will null and void your limited warranty. Under no circumstances should a turbo pressure nozzle be used when pressure washing applied vehicle graphics
- Avoid using your rear defroster, use only when absolutely necessary as it can potentially reduce the lifespan of the see-through perforated window film. Avoid winding the rear side windows up and down frequently to avoid scratching, if they are covered with graphics.
- Avoid rolling down windows that have graphics or lettering installed on them.
- Avoid parking under trees for long or regular periods of time. Sap from trees can cause irreparable damage.
Remember that these are simple guidelines for extending the life of your window graphics, but common sense should prevail in a matter of safety, to ensure maximum visibility at all times.
Please note that any vinyl applied to the windows is only warranted by the manufacturer for one year. The reality is that it will hold up and look great for many years under normal conditions but it is only warranted for one year.