How-To Install Car Graphics
Over the past few years, car advertisers have seen a
dramatic rise in the popularity of the large-scale car graphics called car
wraps. These completely-custom pieces are designed not only to fit a specific
vehicle, but also to display the products and/or services of a certain
business. Many businesses outfit their entire fleet in car wraps, using them as
mobile marketing. This builds a company "brand" and also generates
buzz, as most car graphics are bold and exciting.
Car wrap installation is generally best left to the
professionals. These products are not only expensive, but they're also
fairly-difficult to install. An improper installation can result in the need
for a reprint, which doubles the price. However, by following instructions carefully,
it is possible to do-it-yourself:
Clean the vehicle thoroughly-possibly even have it detailed
to ensure that all the surfaces of the vehicle are free of road dirt and grime.
Allow it to dry indoors overnight so that it stays completely clean. Like with
car decals, if any wax is used on the vehicle allow it to fully-cure to ensure
that the adhesive will stick to the vehicle.
Gather the materials needed for installation-masking tape, a
tape measure, a squeegee, a razor-knife or razorblade, and a heat source (blow
dryer, heat gun, etc.). Depending on the size of the vehicle, you may also need
one or two partners to assist with the installation.
If possible, move the vehicle indoors so that the wrap can be
installed in a controlled environment, free of weather concerns, including
temperature, wind, rain, etc.
Plan your installation ahead-of-time. Vehicle wraps are
multi-piece products, so you'll need to lay out the wrap on the vehicle and
tape it down with masking tape to get an idea of what goes where. Having a plan
is much easier than figuring it out as you go.
Start to wrap the hood. Begin at the center and work your
way upward, then go back to the center and move down. The squeegee should help
remove wrinkles, but if you're still having trouble use your heat source to
relax the film before applying it over a curve. Once the entire piece is
installed, trim away excess material using the razor. Do not wrap it around the
hood-trim to the edge.
With your partner, tape the side panel to the vehicle and
remove the backing. Use the squeegee to adhere the bottom half of the panel,
and then move upward. Continue on the other side panel. Trim the excess around
the wheel wells.
The next step is the bumpers. This is the most-difficult
part of the installation, as the bumpers are curved. Take your time and work
the film with heat to fit it the contours of your vehicle.
Once your wrap is installed, carefully-inspect the entire
vehicle's body for any bubbles you overlooked. If you see any excess material,
trim it off with the razor.
*Note: Again, car wrap installation is best left to the
professionals. If this sounds overwhelming or intimidating, it is worth paying
the money to have the installation done well. Your graphics will look better
and last longer. If you cannot afford a car wrap installation, consider
ordering smaller car signs.
Robert Kinder works as a Production Manager for a local sign
company in Dallas, Texas. He has worked in the sign printing industry for over
15 years providing printing and installation for local small businesses and
large corporate customers. Robert enjoys passing along his trade secrets and
knowledge to help others better understand their signage and their needs. His
extensive knowledge about the sign industry and hands-on experience make him an
expert on everything signs. Visit https://aqute.dk/
Comments
Post a Comment