How To Care For Fleet Vehicle Graphics: Summer Car Wash Survival Guide
As scratch tests and weathering studies have repeatedly shown, fleet vehicle graphics are as durable as they are effective, lasting an average of 5 to 7 years with proper maintenance, even in rough conditions.
For this reason, most people don’t think twice about taking their vehicles to the car wash. But this is a big mistake—one that could cause irreparable damage to your fleet vehicle graphics this summer.
Since fleet vehicle graphics are susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals, high pressure water, and abrasive cleaning methods, owners will need to take some precautions in order to protect their promotional vehicles.
But don’t worry—these summer car wash survival tips are easy to learn, fast to implement, and completely free, and the team at The Custom Sign Haus is here to help every step of the way.
Read on to learn more, or call us at (936)-539-4200 to speak directly with a fleet vehicle graphics specialist in Conroe, TX.
How To Care For Fleet Vehicle Graphics: Summer Car Wash Survival Guide
To protect your fleet vehicle graphics and increase the return on your mobile marketing investment this summer, we recommend that you:
- Hand wash your fleet vehicle graphics as often as possible. Summer weather gets people outside, where they are more likely to see your fleet vehicle graphics, but it also brings lots of dust, dirt, sand, and sap, all of which can blemish your marketing materials if left to dry, harden, and cure.
Caked on contaminants such as these not only reduce the effectiveness of fleet vehicle graphics; they also require a lot more elbow grease to clean, which increases the risks of dulling, scratching, lifting, and other common types of damage.
For this reason, we recommend hand washing your fleet vehicle graphics on a regular basis using a clean microfiber cloth and a mix of warm water and mild detergent. Use gentle motions and scrub away from the edges of your fleet vehicle wraps, working from the center of the design outwards, to minimize the risks of lifting.
Washing fleet vehicle graphics once per month is standard, but more frequent cleanings may be needed if your business operates in dusty areas.
- Avoid brush washes and other abrasive tools. If you opt for a commercial car wash, make sure you find a “touchless” provider, as the use of brush car washes can lead to dulling, scratching, and lifting edges. Similarly, if you are taking part in a community car wash to give back and get eyes on your brand locally, make sure they are not using any abrasive scrubbers.
- Research car wash products and processes. Whether you go pro at a commercial car wash or entrust your vehicle to amateurs at a community fundraising event, you should always inquire about the type of cleaner they use to make sure it’s safe for use with fleet vehicle graphics. If you are not familiar with the brand they use, ask our fleet vehicle graphics techs—every consultation is free, and it could save you a bundle.
Additionally, if waxing is part of their process, be sure to opt out or check with our techs, as some waxes contain petroleum distillates and abrasive compounds that can damage your marketing materials.
- Power wash with care. For large fleet managers and maintenance crews, handwashing will not be practical. For these individuals, pressure washers will be much more efficient. However, improper pressure washing is a recipe for disaster.
To keep your marketing materials looking great, ensure the water pressure is kept under 2000 psi, the temperature is below 180 °F (80 °C), the nozzle is set to a 40-degree wide angle spray pattern, and the sprayer is always held at least one foot away and perpendicular to your fleet vehicle graphic. Furthermore, as with hand washing, it is always best to work from the inside out, avoiding any “against the grain” motions.
- Squeegee or air dry on the road. Leaving your fleet vehicles out to dry in the sun can lead to ugly water spotting, but this can easily be avoided, either by using a squeegee or hitting the road right away for an all-natural air dry.
Book A Free Consultation With A Fleet Vehicle Graphic Tech In Conroe, TX
The Custom Sign Haus is your one stop shop for vehicular branding and old school mobile marketing, giving you easy access to all the best fleet vehicle graphics, wraps, and decals, plus expert support with design, printing, installation, and upkeep.
For more fleet vehicle graphics maintenance tips, plus expert assistance with any damage assessments, repairs, cover-ups, and replacements, you can:
● Call (936)-539-4200
● Email Hello@CustomSignHaus.com
● Fill out our quick contact form to book your consultation online
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