WRAP CARE &
MAINTENANCE GUIDE

1. Washing Best Practices: Hand Washing is King

We always recommend hand washing your wrapped vehicle. Automated brush car washes are the single biggest threat to a vinyl wrap; the stiff brushes can micro-scratch the vinyl surface, catch on the edges of decals, and lift the film.

Hand Washing Steps:

1. Pre-Rinse: Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with clean water to flush away loose dirt and grit before wiping.
2. Use pH-Neutral Soap: Wash the vehicle using a clean microfiber mitt and a mild, wet, pH-neutral automotive car wash soap. Avoid dish detergents or products containing waxes, silicates, or harsh solvents.
3. Two-Bucket Method: Use one bucket for soapy water and a second bucket of clean water to rinse your mitt. This keeps dirty grit from being rubbed back onto the wrap.
4. Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with clean water from top to bottom.
5. Dry: Dry the vehicle immediately with a clean, soft microfiber towel. Allowing water to air-dry on the wrap can lead to mineral water spots, which are highly visible and difficult to remove.

2. Pressure Washing: Handle with Extreme Care

While pressure washing is acceptable, doing it incorrectly can slice or lift the vinyl. If you use a pressure washer, follow these strict safety rules:

• Keep the pressure below 2,000 PSI.
• Keep the water temperature below 140°F (60°C).
• Use a wide-angle spray nozzle (40-degree tip or wider).
• Keep the nozzle at least 12 to 18 inches away from the vehicle surface at all times.
• Never spray at a sharp angle to the edges or seams of the vinyl. Hold the nozzle perpendicular (90 degrees) to the panel to prevent lifting the film.

3. Removing Difficult Contaminants (Droppings, Sap, Bugs)

Environmental contaminants like bird droppings, tree sap, and bug splatter contain acids that will etch and stain the vinyl if left baking in the hot Texas sun.

Clean these off immediately. Do not wait for your weekly car wash. To clean them safely:

Soak the spot with warm, soapy water for several minutes to soften the contaminant. Wipe clean with a soft microfiber cloth. For stubborn spots, you can use a 50/50 mix of Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) and water, or a dedicated waterless wrap cleaner. Never scrub aggressively or use abrasive kitchen pads, as this will permanently dull the vinyl finish.

4. Sun Protection & Parking Guidance

Vinyl is a PVC plastic. Long-term exposure to intense UV rays breaks down the plasticizers in the vinyl, causing it to dry out, turn brown, and eventually crack. Horizontal surfaces like the hood, roof, and trunk receive the most direct sun and degrade fastest.

Whenever possible, park in the shade. Garages, carports, and underground parking will double the life expectancy of your wrap. If you must park outside during the day, try to park in shaded areas or consider a breathable car cover for vehicles that sit stationary for long periods.

5. Matte & Textured Finish Care

Matte and satin wraps require extra care because they cannot be polished. If you apply a standard wax or sealant to a matte wrap, you will create shiny, uneven patches and permanently ruin the finish.

Only use products specifically formulated for matte finishes. Avoid detailers that contain gloss-enhancers. For maximum protection, consider having a professional ceramic coating applied over the wrap. Ceramic coatings seal the microscopic pores of matte vinyl, making it highly water-repellent (hydrophobic) and far easier to clean.