Infrequent or improper maintenance can lead to premature degradation of graphics and lower the expected life of the film.
Waterless Wash – Preferred Method: If the vehicle is not overly dirty, this is the preferred method. Hand wash extremely dirty vehicles first and follow up with a waterless wash. Waterless wash products can help maintain the gloss level and performance of the film. Before using any new product on your wrap, be sure to test them on an inconspicuous area of the vehicle.
Hand Wash:Ideal for a vehicle with dirt or other residue. Follow the below steps:
NOTE! NO PRESSURE WASHING! Excessive spraying at the wrong angle may create failure points and result in the wrap lifting at edges. An automatic car wash that uses brushes is not recommended. Brushes may scratch the wrap or catch the wrap’s edge and create a failure point.
Use a mild car cleaning detergent and water mix that does not contain any strong soluble substances, alcohol or abrasive components. The detergent should have a pH balance between 5 and 9.
The vehicle should not be cleaned within the first 48 hours of the wrap being applied. After this 2-day period, it is recommended to wash your vehicle every 2 weeks.
Sarasota Wraps does not recommend it. However, we can give guidance as long as the wax does not contain petroleum distillates, which is found in many paste waxes. Products that are a combination of a waterless wash and wax are great options as long as the vehicle doesn’t have a matte finish and isn’t excessively dirty. Test the wax on an inconspicuous area of the vehicle first. We would recommend waxing no more than once a year in a cool environment only as needed. (For further information on this please ask management.)
Spot clean contaminants, such as bird droppings, bug splatter, tree sap, and similar contaminants as soon as possible to avoid film damage. Contact Sarasota Wraps regarding tree sap and all other hard to remove spots if soap and water is not effective.
Use a waterless wash that is recommended for matte finishes. Waterless wash products containing wax can fill the texture and create shiny spots. A lighter matte finish will be prone to showing more dirt than other finishes. Use a 50/50 mix of isopropyl alcohol and water to spot clean matte finish films. If the alcohol and water mix does not remove dirt, you can try using a hot, soapy water solution. You can also try an all-purpose cleaner purchased at your local hardware store.
