Today’s post runs down 4 custom trailer wrap maintenance tips to help you make the most of your vehicle marketing campaign. Call 615-649-5003 for a free trailer wrap quote and get all your maintenance questions answered.
Wash Custom Trailer Wraps Regularly
As a general rule, wash your custom trailer wraps whenever they appear dirty–the sooner the better! The longer contaminants are left on your custom trailer wraps, the harder they’ll be to clean off (and the more likely you are to apply too much elbow grease in the attempt).
Whenever you notice your custom trailer wraps getting dirty, complete the following steps:
- Rinse off as much dirt and grit as possible by spraying the contaminants with clean water.
- Using a soft, clean cloth or sponge and non-abrasive detergent, wash your custom trailer wrap thoroughly. Ask your MetroCenter Signworks representative for recommended commercial products in Nashville, TN, or go with a simple mix of water and gentle detergent.
- Rinse your custom trailer wraps thoroughly with clean water. To reduce the risks of water spotting, dry the wrap with a silicone squeegee and finish with a clean microfiber cloth.
Be Careful With Automated Car Washes
Most custom trailer wraps may be run through automated car washes. However, touchless car washes are always best. We recommend avoiding brush car washes whenever possible since these can dull, scratch, or otherwise damage your graphics.
Follow Metrocenter Signworks Pressure Washing Guidelines
Hand washing is preferable, but pressure washing is acceptable as long as you follow these guidelines:
- Keep the water pressure low – below 2000 psi (or 14 MPa). Anything higher may damage your wraps or cause them to lift.
- Keep the water temperature low – below 180 °F (80 °C). Anything higher may affect the strength of the adhesive.
- Use the appropriate spray nozzle – the 40-degree wide angle spray pattern is suitable.
- Keep the nozzle away from your custom trailer wrap or graphics – at least 1 foot (300mm) at all times. Holding the nozzle closer creates too much water pressure.
- Keep the nozzle at the appropriate angle – hold it perpendicular (at 90 degrees) to the graphic at all times.
Tackle Tough Contaminants Responsibly
Difficult contaminants, such as bug splatter, bird droppings, and tree sap, may not come off using the gentle hand-washing method described earlier. For best results, soften difficult contaminants before cleaning by soaking them in hot, soapy water for several minutes. Once the soak time is up, proceed with the normal handwashing techniques, then rinse the area thoroughly and dry.
If the contaminant still hasn’t gone anywhere, consider using a commercial bug-and-tar-remover or a mix of two parts Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to one part water. Spot clean the contaminants using these special solutions, avoiding any rough scrubbing or abrasive tools as you do.
More Cleaning Questions? Ask Custom Trailer Wrap Experts In Nashville, Tn
MetroCenter Signworks is a leading provider of custom trailer wraps for businesses throughout Bellevue, Belle Meade, Madison, Hendersonville, and all the surrounding areas.
Call 615-649-5003 or visit the MetroCenter Signworks website to book your free consultation and get your maintenance questions answered!