With the harsh weather of the winter months approaching, many signmakers and their customers wonder if their vehicle wraps will be able to survive the season. The answer is a question of not only effective installation, but also ongoing care.
Given the growing popularity of vehicle wraps, what was once a summer-focused marketing technique has now become a year-round business across Canada. Proper wrapping techniques can help prepare graphics to withstand colder temperatures, but in particular, if a wrap will be applied during the winter, it is important to ensure the installation bay is kept warm enough—at least 10 to 16 C (50 to 60 F).
Then, to care for the wrap correctly, typical maintenance will include a weekly wash, keeping the vehicle sheltered whenever feasible and fixing any small tears, breaks or holes in the vinyl as soon as possible.
Rock salt and de-icing chemicals, which are commonly used in the winter to help keep roads clear of snow and ice, can certainly present an issue for wrapped vehicles, as they can begin to eat away at the vinyl and ruin its appearance. To combat this problem, wrapped vehicles driven on public roadways during the winter may need to be washed more frequently than usual.
With files from JMR Graphics. For more information, visit www.jmrgraphics.com.
