Cleaning the Vehicle:
The first step in the process is thoroughly cleaning the vehicle to remove any dirt, grime, leftover residue, or wax. This is a crucial step because any debris left on the surface can cause bubbles or imperfections in the wrap when laying it on the corners or edges of the vehicle. To battle this, we utilize a solvent-based cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to ensure that all residues are removed. Pay special attention to edges, seams, and recessed areas.
Inspection:
After cleaning, inspect the vehicle for any damages such as scratches, dents, or rust. These imperfections can affect the adhesion of the wrap and the overall final appearance. If there are any damages, they should be repaired before the wrap is applied, rather than laying vinyl over it. If not fixed, the spot in question will show up as a crease or bubble due to the uneven surface underneath.
Measuring the Vehicle:
Precise vehicle measurements are crucial for a successful wrap. Every surface intended for wrapping—sides, front, windows, and even recessed areas—needs to be measured accurately. This attention to detail not only ensures a perfect fit but also optimizes material usage, reducing waste for future projects.
Creating the Design:
The design process involves creating graphics that fit the dimensions of the vehicle. The design should consider the vehicle’s contours and any features that might interfere with the wrap. Lastly, thanks to our in-house design team at SigmaGrafix, your brand’s ideas, and must-haves are the ultimate goal we intend to achieve with your project! Your brand’s wants or must-haves, are easily and readily designable thanks to our superstar team we have allowed for one-off branded designs.
Printing the Wrap:
Once the design is finalized and customer-approved, it is printed onto vinyl wrap material. High-quality vinyl and inks are essential for durability and vibrant colors and being that we have them at our shops, it makes for a much more fluid process. Large format printers are typically used for this process to ensure seamless application on large surfaces.
Laminating:
After printing, the wrap is laminated to protect the graphics from UV rays, scratches, and weather elements. This step enhances the longevity of the wrap. Application is simple yet tricky, we have a team specific for printing and laminating making our company run much smoother and overall smarter!
Trimming and Tucking:
The vehicle wrap should be applied in a controlled environment with a temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C). This helps the adhesive work effectively and not become tough and agitating to use. A clean, dust-free indoor area is ideal and something we pay A LOT of attention to in order to prevent any particles from getting trapped under the wrap or adhering to anything during the process.
Positioning the Wrap:
Begin by positioning the wrap on the vehicle without removing the backing paper. This allows for adjustments to ensure the wrap is aligned correctly. We then utilize soft magnets or other hands to hold the wrap in place temporarily making sure our graphics line up with the correct contour lines.
Applying the Wrap:
Start from one section of the vehicle and gradually remove the backing paper as you apply the wrap. This method helps avoid large bubbles and misalignment. Use a squeegee to press the wrap onto the vehicle, working from the center outwards to remove air bubbles and ensure smooth application. Using an 80-50 degree angle allows for bubbles to be pushed out rather than utilizing force rendering the vinyl useless. For curved surfaces and recesses, use a heat gun to gently warm the vinyl, making it more pliable. This allows it to conform to the contours of the vehicle better and overall ease the stretching process.
Post-Application Care/Tips
Once the wrap is applied, our installers trim any excess material using a sharp blade (Exacto Knife). Be careful not to cut into the vehicle’s paint as it is under the vinyl! Next, we tuck the edges of the wraps underseals and around corners to ensure a clean finish and heat to adhere. This step prevents peeling and gives the wrap a professionally done look.
Post-Heating:
After the wrap is fully applied, use a heat gun to go over stretched or possible “loose” corners to make sure your wrap adheres well to the surface. This process, known as post-heating, helps set the adhesive and ensures a secure bond if it’s either cold, or you want to triple-check that your job is well done.
Inspection:
Inspect the wrap for any remaining bubbles or imperfections. Small bubbles can be removed by puncturing with a pin and pressing out the air with a squeegee. And lastly ensure that all edges are firmly adhered and there are no loose areas.
Curing Time:
Allow the wrap to cure for about 24 hours before exposing it to harsh conditions like car washes or extreme temperatures. This time allows the adhesive to fully bond with the vehicle’s surface. As a paint job or anything else, let it rest, then beat it up!
Cleaning:
Regular cleaning of the wrapped vehicle is essential to maintain its appearance. Use mild detergent and water, and avoid abrasive cleaning tools that can scratch the vinyl. Bird droppings and other chemical residues CAN and Will affect your wrap, clean it before they become one! Pressure washing should be done with caution, keeping the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the wrap and avoiding high pressure on the edges or corners, more prone to tear away.
Conclusion
Applying a vehicle wrap is a detailed process requiring precision, the right tools, and a controlled environment. Done properly, a wrap transforms a vehicle into a mobile advertisement or personalized work of art. After years of being ranked among the “Best Car Wraps in Dallas,” we’re excited to expand south! Our new location in Spring, Texas offers high-quality truck decals and wraps, and we look forward to becoming part of the community for years to come. Contact us today for the best auto wraps in Houston!
