Posted By Vinyl Frog On February 12, 2024
Pressure Wash Wrapped Car Tips And Tricks
Once you have wrapped your vehicle, it is highly imperative to maintain and care for the vinyl. Regular cleaning is important but can you pressure wash a wrapped car? Pressure washing is not recommended and might reduce the lifespan of the vinyl wrap in the long run.
Wrapping your car is an awesome way to protect it from the harsh elements in the environment, but it also means that you have to be careful about how you clean it. Let’s see what tips and tricks you can use if you have to pressure wash a vinyl-wrapped vehicle.
What Is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing a car involves using a high-powered water spray to clean its exterior surfaces. This method is efficient for removing dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the vehicle's body, wheels, and undercarriage. Though this is great for thorough cleaning, it can also damage the paint job over time by causing scratches on it.
Can You Pressure Wash A Wrapped Car?
You can pressure wash a wrapped car by making some changes, but it is not the best practice and we would advise against it. The intense force generated by the water spray can potentially damage the vinyl in the following ways:
- The high-pressure stream can penetrate the vinyl's protective layers, causing them to lift, peel, crack, or even tear over time. Even if you are using it in moderation, the damage may occur over some time.
- It may compromise the adhesive that holds the wrap in place. This may lead to the wrap detaching or forming bubbles, diminishing its appearance and longevity.
- The force of the water can drive moisture into the seams and edges of the vinyl wrap. This trapped moisture may lead to issues such as mold, mildew, or corrosion underneath the wrap, further jeopardizing its integrity.
- Excessive pressure can strip away the protective layers of the vinyl, diminishing its gloss and promoting color fading over time.
Hence it is not suggested to use a pressure washer on a wrapped car unless you do it in the way we have recommended.
Tips For Pressure Washing A Wrapped Car
If you have a pressure washer at home, follow the guidelines mentioned below to clean your wrapped car with it:
- Wear gloves when handling your car (and wash them afterward) so that you don't leave oils from your hands on the wrap.
- When washing your car, make sure you do so in the shade, as direct sunlight can damage the paint.
- The water should neither be cold, nor hot. Moderate room temperature is recommended. The temperature should not exceed 140°F or 60°C.
- Use gentle pressure. It should not be higher than 1300 PSI.
- Keep the nozzle tip 3 to 5 feet away from the surface of the wrap.
- Make sure that the angle of the nozzle is less than 60 degrees.
- After you are done washing, rinse with fresh water and pat dry the vinyl gently with a soft, microfiber cloth.
Do not pressure wash your wrapped vehicle regularly as this may harm the vinyl in the long run. It is better to hand wash it using the two–bucket system with a mild car shampoo and a soft microfiber cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
As mentioned earlier, pressure washing is not the best way to keep your wrapped car clean and protected. You will have to customize the amount of pressure you apply and the way you wash. Do not use this method every time you need to wash the car as it can be detrimental.
Wraps are popular for a reason—they look fantastic. In order to maintain their durability, they have to be taken care of. When purchasing vinyl for your vehicle, do not compromise on the quality of the film. A premium vinyl wrap can bear moderated pressure wash better than a cheaper material.
If you want high-grade, durable, and long-lasting wraps for your cherished ride, visit VinylFrog. You will get an extensive variety in both colors and finishes and the best value for money!
