Wrap Care

Graphics Unlimited LLC |6983 N Okatie Hwy Unit ERidgelandSC29936 | (843) 808-6095

Preparing Your Vehicle Before the Wrap

Before the installation process can begin, your vehicle needs to be prepared. Please follow these instructions:

The vehicle should be cleaned meticulously (including door jams and door frames, remove leaves and pine straw from under the hood). Washing the car will remove dirt, debris, oil deposits, and gunk. Our team will then wipe the vehicle down with 90% alcohol to make sure the vehicle is clean and prepared for the vinyl substrate.
Do NOT use wax or tire dressings, vinyl sprays, or ceramic coatings on the vehicle before installation, as the wax will create a layer between the vehicle's body and the adhesive. This will create issues because when the wax heats up, it will loosen the adhesive, and the wrap will bubble and peel.
Any dings, deep scratches, or rust spots should be cleaned and fixed as best as possible.
Damage to the vehicle’s body can leave the wrap looking imperfect. For example, cracked paint, oxidized paint, loose or misaligned body panels, loose trim, or molding can affect the appearance of your vehicle wrap.

If you have any questions, please contact us at (843) 808-6095 or email troy@graphicsunlimitedllc.com or gail@graphicsunlimitedllc.com. We will be happy to talk to you.

How to Care for a Vehicle Wrap

Taking care of your vehicle wrap will not only maintain the overall appearance, but it will help prolong its lifespan. If a vehicle wrap is left with dirt, grime, or environmental contaminants, it will degrade, crack, and fade. These vehicle wrap care instructions will help you clean and maintain the premium look and extend the life of your vehicle wrap.

Waterless Chemical Washes

Discover the preferred method for cleaning your wrapped vehicle with waterless chemical washes. Brands like Chemical Guys, Meguiar’s, and 3M offer excellent options available for purchase. These products are specially formulated to maintain the gloss and detail of your wrap. Before application, it's advisable to test an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility. We recommend waterless washes for their convenience and effectiveness in preserving your vehicle's appearance.

Hand Wash

Opt for the most common and safest method of maintaining your vehicle wrap: hand washing. Ensure the entire vehicle is washed, even areas with partial graphics, to maintain uniformity. Follow these simple steps: Pre-rinse the vehicle with clean water to remove dirt particles, then gently wash the graphics with a mild soapy water solution using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry using a microfiber or non-abrasive towel. Avoid over-spraying to prevent issues with wrap lifting at the edges.

Automatic Car Wash

Although this is the easiest way to clean a vehicle, this is NOT recommended, primarily because car washes use petroleum wax that is harmful to the wrap. In addition, brushes — especially nylon brushes — can scratch the vinyl or catch an edge which will create lifting and separation of the vinyl from the vehicle. Once the vinyl starts to lift, it is very difficult to put it back down. So, if this is your only choice, please use a brushless car wash that uses spray only, and please do NOT use the wax option.

Pressure Washing

Despite its appeal for a thorough clean, pressure washing presents significant risks to the integrity of your vehicle wrap. The forceful water stream utilized in these machines can lead to issues such as edge lifting, where the vinyl begins to peel away from the vehicle, and color degradation, resulting in a faded or uneven appearance. To safeguard your investment and maintain the pristine look of your wrap, we strongly discourage the use of pressure washing. Instead, opt for gentler cleaning methods to mitigate the risk of damage and preserve the longevity of your wrap.

For Matte Vehicle Wrap

Matte vehicle wraps boast a distinctive elegance but require attentive care to uphold their appearance. Unlike glossy finishes, matte wraps are particularly susceptible to showing imperfections, including shine spots that detract from their unique aesthetic. To mitigate this risk, we recommend using waterless wash products formulated specifically for matte finishes. When hand washing, exercise caution and use minimal soap in the water to avoid creating unwanted shine. For spot cleaning, consider a solution of isopropyl alcohol and water in a 50/50 ratio, providing an effective yet gentle option to tackle stubborn stains without compromising the matte appearance of your wrap.

For Chrome and Shiny Metallic Wrap

Chrome and shiny metallic wraps exude brilliance and demand attention, making them a striking choice for any vehicle. However, maintaining their pristine appearance requires specialized care and attention to detail. Conventional cleaning products may contain harsh chemicals that can dull or damage the surface of these wraps over time. To ensure the longevity of your chrome or metallic wrap, opt for waterless wash products specifically formulated for these finishes. These products effectively remove dirt and grime while preserving the luster and shine of your wrap, allowing you to keep it looking its best for years to come.

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Graphics Unlimited LLC

6983 N Okatie Hwy Unit E
Ridgeland, SC 29936

(843) 808-6095

Hours

Business Hours:

Monday	8:00 AM	–	5:00 PM
Tuesday	8:00 AM	–	5:00 PM
Wednesday	8:00 AM	–	5:00 PM
Thursday	8:00 AM	–	5:00 PM
Friday	8:00 AM	–	5:00 PM