Did you just get an awesome car wrap but now you’re panicking as the temps heat up? You’re not alone!
With the hot weather of the summer months quickly approaching, a lot of people are starting to wonder if their vinyl car wrap is going to hold up.
To help you -and your car wrap- make it through this summer and many more years, we’ve compiled. everything you need to know about hot weather and car wraps.
Check out this article for everything you need to know:
- What vinyl car wraps are
- How heat affects them
- How you can avoid any damage
Plus, we’ll give you some great tips on how to protect your new vehicle wrap from the sun’s harmful rays.
What Are Vinyl Car Wraps?
A vinyl car wrap is a type of adhesive film that is used to cover and protect your car’s paint job. It can be applied in a variety of colors and designs, making it a popular choice for people who want to change up their car’s look without having to repaint it.
Vinyl car wraps are typically applied by professional installers. However, some people attempt to DIY the installation. For full-vehicle wraps, you should always use a professional. For particle wraps and decals, many people prefer to install them on their own.
How Does Heat Affect Car Wraps?
Heat is an important part of applying a vinyl wrap. But after that, heat is not always such a good friend to your car wrap!
The sun’s direct exposure is a factor in car wrap fading. Thus, you should always keep the vinyl wrap shaded as much as possible during the summertime.
Other than fading, the main concern with hot weather and car wraps is the heat’s effect on the adhesive. When the weather is hot, the adhesive can become brittle and break down, which can lead to peeling or bubbling. In extreme cases, the wrap may even come off completely.
Avoiding Heat & UV Exposure To Car Wraps
Ultra-violet (UV) radiation can fade vinyl car wraps. To avoid any damage from hot weather, you should try to keep your wrapped car in the shade as much as possible. If that’s not possible, make sure to use a sunshade or car cover. You should also avoid driving in hot weather whenever possible.
In addition to avoiding heat exposure, you should also try to protect your car wrap from UV rays. UV radiation can cause the adhesive to break down and fade over time. To protect your wrap, you can buy a vinyl car wrap protector or install a tinted window film.
How Weather Can Affect Car Wraps
Aside from hot weather, other types of weather can also affect car wraps. Rain and snow can cause the wrap to become wet and dirty, which can lead to it peeling or bubbling later on.
And wind can cause the wrap to flap and wrinkle, which can also lead to peeling or bubbling.
Therefore, many of the tips for protecting your vinyl wrap from exposure to the elements apply year-round, regardless of where you live.
Make Sure Your Car Wrap Is High Quality
Not all vinyl car wraps are created equal. If you want to be sure that your wrap will hold up in hot weather, make sure to choose a high-quality brand.
Look for a company that has a good reputation and uses high-quality materials. While hiring a professional can cost a bit more, it will be well worth it for a longer-lasting car wrap.
Choosing the best vinyl for your car wrap can be an important decision. Luckily, there are plenty of reputable brands like 3M, Avery, Hexis, Oracal, KPMF, Inozetek, and more.
Get Protection For Your Wrapped Car
There are several ways you can protect a vehicle wrap. So although heat can shorten a wrapping’s lifetime, the following tips will help protect it during extreme temperatures.
Use a sunshade or car cover when your car is parked in the sun. The best option is to wrap paint protection film over the vinyl, if possible, to help keep the wrap from fading and cracking. The coating will protect the car without impacting its design or durability.
It also helps to keep your vinyl wrap clean, with regular, gentle washes. You should use wax to protect vinyl wraps when washing your vehicle. Avoid harsh cleaners or power washers.
Takeaways On If Hot Weather Ruins Car Wraps
Vinyl car wraps are a great way to change the look of your car without having to paint it. They can also protect your car’s original paint job from scratches and dings. However, there is some concern that hot weather may cause the vinyl to peel or warp.
Overall, hot weather can be a major threat to vinyl car wraps. However, with a little bit of preparation and protection, you can help keep your wrap looking great for years to come. So, if you’re thinking about getting a vinyl car wrap this summer, be sure to keep these tips in mind!