Vehicle Wrap - Preparation

Preparation

Workspace cleaning:
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: ambient temperature and surface temperature. The ideal 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.). If so, this time can be used to carry out that labor-intensive task.

Vehicle cleaning:
The first step is to ask the customer to deliver the vehicle as clean as possible. Ideally, the vehicle should go through an automatic car wash at least 24 hours in advance, allowing enough time for any water trapped in hard-to-reach areas to fully dry.

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, etc.). If so, the cleaning process should be:
Soapy water – Degreaser – Soapy water – Isopropyl alcohol mixed with water (50/50).

If the vehicle has an existing wrap or decals that must be removed and an adhesive remover is required, the process should be:
Soapy water – Adhesive remover – Soapy water – Isopropyl alcohol mixed with water (50/50).

If, on the other hand, the vehicle is in acceptable condition and only requires deep cleaning, then only soapy water and isopropyl alcohol mixed with water (50/50) are required.

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 we wish to cover with tape (headlights, taillights, door handles, rubber seals, etc.). If knifeless tape is going to be used, this is also the time to apply it in the desired areas.