How to keep your vinyl graphics looking like new

There is hardly one right answer regarding the lifespan and durability of vinyl in general. These features depend on producers (brands), color, type, application technique, geographical region even. However, the period of time that your vinyl wrap will serve you depends mostly on how well you take care of it.

There are some things you might want to keep in mind to prolong your wrap’s life:

Probably one of the crucial aspects if the type of vinyl you use for your car’s decals. My Car's Look guarantees impeccable quality and persistence in time of vinyl graphics we use. The high performance cast vinyl is manufactured by top companies - 3M, Oracal, and Avery – and is especially produced for car wraps and customization.

Another important point is car surface readiness for wrapping. Your car should be properly prepared before applying the vinyl. The auto should not be waxed or polish, since it will make the wrap to stick to the layer of wax instead of the actual car. We recommend using a degreasing product (soap, dishwashing liquid, alcohol) in order to get the car ready for wrapping. Tip: spray a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water (in a 1 to 1 proportion) on the vehicle to clear the wax away or just improve the surface of the car for a vinyl wrap.

Even though it is a common belief that sunlight affects vinyl the most, it is the polluted air and dirt that damages the car wrap to a greater extent. Indeed, higher temperatures have an impact on vinyl graphics. However, in certain geographic locations, impurities from the air meeting morning humidity cause an “acid dew” effect, which makes vinyl wrap look as if it is covered in rust. Good news is: nothing like a good car wash keeps “acid dew” away from your beloved vehicle. You can take as little as 5 minutes a day to quickly dust off your auto, and be sure your graphic lamination will last longer.

Wax it! If you’re the owner of a wrapped car, apply the car wax of your usual choice. Alternatively, if you have gloss vinyl stripes – gently apply liquid wax over the cut areas by hand to avoid breaking the edges. The liquid kind is preferred since it doesn’t leave white stains. However, if you have matte vinyl stripes, we recommend polishing with spray wax.
Using these simple tricks to take care of your auto will keep you and your car happy.

If you’re the proud owner of an exclusive car – drive through and pressure car washers are a no-go. You just don’t want your Maserati, Porsche, Ferarri (you got the point) and the graphics on it to be destroyed after a rough wash. Take a time to take your auto to a gentler, hand wash, or at least perform the 5 minute cleaning tip suggested by us.