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How to Wrap Deep Channels with the Controlled Stretch Technique

Deep channels don't have to be failure points. Discover how the Controlled Stretch Technique shifts the tension away from high-risk areas to improve durability and wrap quality.

When wrapping a car, you will always have to deal with sharp edges and deep grooves where normally the film would thin out and could discolor. This simply can be solved by shifting and spreading the film tension. 

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The Controlled Stretch Technique should be used whenever cast film is stretched over concave areas such as inset/recessed windows in cargo vans. Not only does this technique prevent the film from lifting or coming off in “risk areas”, but it also offers additional advantages such as better and more consistent appearance and less risk of vinyl lifting in the high stretched area.

 

Film Tensions & Risk Areas

RIsk areas in Different Grooves

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The red dots in the image above represent the most critical risk areas where the film is usually stretched and pushed in. These are the pre-eminent areas where the film lifts and pops.

Incorrect Technique on Deep Channels

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  1. This area often applied and pushed in first and where the film stretches the least.
  2. After applying Area #1, this area is then pushed in to the channel last where the film has accumulated and added stretch and tension.

Why Shifting Tension?

There are several reasons; the most important one is the possibility that the film could lift out of a deep groove or channel, where the vinyl has been stretched during application. Moreover, the film could be stretched in such a way that the color or texture in the channels and grooves can visibly change.

How does the Controlled Stretch Technique work?

Heat the film in a place where it can lay flat and without tension (A). This is where the film can be stretched, whereas film should not be stretched into any groove or channel. Now push the film evenly into the groove (B). When necessary, reheat the film in the area (A) and continue to push the film down into the area (B), until the groove is wrapped. Then, squeegee quickly and firmly to secure the film into the groove, then squeegee quickly and firmly in area (A) to secure the application. 

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