Vehicle graphics are an excellent way to add some personality to your ride. However, it's important to take proper care of them to keep them looking great. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and tricks from The Loyal Brand to help you maintain your vehicle graphics and keep them looking like new. We'll cover everything from washing and cleaning to dealing with difficult contaminants.
Adding vehicle graphics to your car or truck is a great way to give it a unique touch. Whether you opt for a full vinyl wrap or just a few decals, it's important to take proper care of them to ensure they look their best for years to come. At The Loyal Brand, we want to help you get the most out of your vehicle graphics, so we've put together some helpful tips and tricks.
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Wash Regularly: To care for your vehicle graphics, wash them regularly to remove any dirt and grime that can accumulate on the surface of the vinyl. Use a wet, non-abrasive detergent like 3M Car Wash Soap or Meguiar's NXT Generation Car Wash, a soft, clean cloth or sponge to apply the soap, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Use a silicone squeegee to remove excess water and finish with a clean microfiber cloth to avoid water spotting.
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Automated Car Washes: If you prefer automated car washes, choose a touchless car wash to avoid damaging the vinyl. Brush car washes can cause scratching and lifting of the graphics, leading to expensive repairs.
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Pressure Washing: While hand washing is best, pressure washing can be used in certain situations. If you decide to use a pressure washer, keep the water pressure below 2000 psi, the water temperature below 180°F, use a spray nozzle with a wide angle spray pattern, and keep the nozzle at least one foot away from the graphics to avoid lifting the edges of the film.
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Difficult Contaminants: For tough contaminants like bird droppings or tree sap, soak them for several minutes with hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry. If further cleaning is needed, try products like Meguiar's Gold Class Bug and Tar Remover or 3M Citrus Base Cleaner. Do not use abrasive tools as they can scratch the vinyl.
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Fuel Spills: Wipe off fuel spills immediately to avoid damaging the vinyl and adhesive. Then wash, rinse, and dry as usual.
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Film Restoration: If your graphics start to look dull or faded, avoid using any abrasive polishes or cutting compounds. Remove wax or wax residue with an all-purpose cleaner before attempting any restoration. For matte or textured films, avoid using polishing or wax products as they can cause irreversible damage. Test any restoration product in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface of your vehicle graphics.
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Care in Freezing Temperatures: In colder climates, never use an ice scraper to remove ice from windows as it can chip, lift, and damage the decals. Use a soft brush or de-icer spray to melt the ice, then gently wipe it away with a soft cloth. Avoid using hot water as the sudden temperature change can cause the vinyl to shrink or crack. In hot summer months, park your vehicle in a shaded area or use a car cover to protect it from the sun's harmful UV rays and avoid parking it in direct sunlight for extended periods to prevent premature fading and cracking.
By following these tips and taking proper care of your vehicle graphics, you can extend their lifespan and keep them looking great for years to come. At The Loyal Brand, we take pride in providing high-quality vehicle graphics that are designed to withstand the elements and stand the test of time. Our customers have shared positive experiences with us, such as Mike from California, who says, "I've had The Loyal Brand graphics on my truck for over a year now, and they still look as good as the day I got them. The care instructions are easy to follow, and I appreciate the advice on restoring the graphics if they start to fade."
No matter where you live or what climate you're in, taking proper care of your vehicle graphics is essential to maintaining their appearance and longevity. Follow the tips and procedures outlined in this