How to prepare a vehicle for wrapping?

Cleanliness is the most critical factor when it comes to any wrap application. This applies not only to the application surface but also the workspace and surrounding environment.

Workspace

Cleaning the workspace is extremely important. We must remember that when the liner is removed, it can generate some static, which may attract dust or dirt particles to the adhesive exposed in the area. There are certain techniques to reduce this possibility, but without a doubt the most effective one is to keep the floors, walls, and the workspace in general completely clean.

Temperature

There are two temperatures that must be kept under control when performing a vehicle wrap:

1. Ambient temperature; and

2. Surface temperature

The ideal ambient temperature is between 65–75°F (18-23 C), but this will not necessarily be the surface temperature. For this reason, it is necessary to allow the vehicle to sit in the workspace until it reaches ambient temperature. At this point, a decision should be made as to whether parts will be removed (headlights, taillights, door handles, etc.)

Cleaning the Vehicle

The first step is to ask the customer to deliver the vehicle as clean as possible. The vehicle should go through a basic car wash (no wax, tire shine, or other protectants) prior to driving the vehicle into the shop. We recommend this be done towards the end of the day to let the vehicle drip dry overnight inside the shop.

Once the vehicle is in the workspace and at the proper temperature, it is time to perform an inspection to determine if there is any agent or coating that could repel the adhesive (wax, oil, grease, special coatings, etc.). If so, use the proper cleaning agent to treat each type of contaminant that will not damage the vehicle's paint.

Pro Tip: Dirt and contaminants may embed on the paint on horizontal surfaces. Using a detailing clay with a lubricant helps dislodge embedded contaminants. See video below from one of our Arlon-Certified Trainers in Canada, Tony Loewen.

Please note that ceramic coatings require a special procedure to be removed and will require a professional detailer to mechanically remove it. Consulting a professional is highly recommended.

If the vehicle has an existing wrap or decals to be removed, make sure to remove any adhesive that may be left behind. For graphics beyond their service life that's cracked or burnt, the owner of the vehicle should be notified that the paint underneath could be damaged and consider shielding yourself from any liability upon removing them either with a use an eraser wheel or with chemicals. 

Rinse all the chemicals thoroughly and do a final wipe with isopropyl alcohol (at least 50% IPA).

It is important to take your time during the cleaning process and try to reach all crevices and hard-to-access areas of the vehicle. Any dirt or trapped water in these areas could lead to premature failure of the wrap.

Once the vehicle is completely clean, the next step is to protect all parts that were not removed prior with masking tape such as headlights, taillights, door handles, trim etc.