posted by vinyl frog on September 16, 2022

How to Remove Vinyl Wrap Adhesive?

You wrapped your vehicle in vinyl making it the coolest set of wheels in town. You enjoyed the accolades you earned for the amazing change of color and the overall appearance. When you finally removed it, there was adhesive residue left behind. How to remove it in the best possible manner so as not to mar the original look of the vehicle? Let’s find out.

Whether you are looking for a protective film for your car or a flashy new wrap for your truck, vinyl wraps have completely taken over the market in this regard. From car wraps, automobile decals, drinkware, stickers for electronics, advertising trucks, helmets, walls, home décor and so much more. Vinyl application is both diverse and handy if you do not want to go for monotonous paint jobs. These flexible sheets offer so much variety in colors, patterns, and finishes which is why people have started preferring them over other decorating alternatives.

Moreover, the use of electronic cutters and software allows you to come up with the most intricate and innovative designs. The usage of vinyl wrap as an advertisement tool has also become common due to the number of people you are able to reach with it and also its affordability and ease of removal. Hence these days, vinyl films are highly coveted.

When To Remove Vinyl Wrap?

With so many benefits, you might be thinking why would I need to remove vinyl wrap in the first place? Vinyl wrap boasts durability and longevity but if a mishap occurs it is comforting to know how and when you should replace it. Accidents and mishandling are not the only reason, taste and style also changes over time.

What might be fashionable a few years back will not be today. Hence, you have the option to replace it with newer designs and more technologically advanced vinyl wraps. Furthermore, they are excellent for ad campaigns as new slogans, new branding can be added without much effort.

Even if none of these problems or needs arise and you take utmost care of your vinyl wrap, you will still need to get it replaced after 2-3 years of use. This is due to the external elements that will gradually wear it out so learning how to remove the vinyl wrap adhesive is important.

The reason vinyl sticks so well onto the surface is due to its adhesive backing. When removing the adhesive, it is important to know what type you are dealing with. These adhesives come in two forms: water-based and solvent-based. Solvent-based adhesive is used for long-term and permanent usage due to how strongly it binds with the surface. Water based adhesives are easily removable but lack durability.

How To Remove Vinyl Wrap Adhesive?

The best part about using vinyl wraps is how uncomplicated their application and removal are. The process is so simple that you can do it yourself at home! If you do not want to spend a fortune getting your vinyl wrap adhesive professionally removed, here are a few steps you can follow:

Remove your vinyl wrap by applying heat and pressure using a heat gun or hair dryer to loosen the adhesive. Hold the heat source at a distance for a few minutes and the adhesive should be easier to take off. Vinyl wrap is made up of polyvinyl chloride which expands when heat is applied.
Once you have done that, if you notice adhesive residue on the surface, use a scraper to take it off. Keep in mind that not all of it will come off during this step.
The scraper should be made of plastic. You can use a plastic razor blade for it as well.
To take off the remaining adhesive use an adhesive remover spray, which will help dissolve it. Spray the adhesive remover onto the surface and leave it for a few minutes before wiping it off using a fabric cloth.
You can use Isopropyl alcohol and water solution to remove the adhesive residue. Wet a paper towel or clean rag and rub the residue to lift it off. If the residue is stubborn, lay an alcohol-soaked rag on it, let it sit for several minutes to soften the residue then wipe it off.
You can also use white distilled vinegar to remove adhesive residue. Pour some on a soft cloth and rub it off.

Frequently Asked Question

The Final Verdict

Do not fret if you have removed your vinyl and there is some adhesive residue left on the surface. Besides kitchen hacks, there are some very good quality adhesive removing products available in the market. Consult an automotive expert and get the one best suited for your vehicle.