A Guide On When And How You Can Repair Vinyl Wrap

A Guide On When And How You Can Repair Vinyl Wrap

When to Repair Vinyl Wrap

  • Small Scratches and Scuffs: Minor surface damage that hasn't penetrated through the vinyl can often be repaired.
  • Peeling Edges or Corners: If the vinyl wrap is starting to lift at the edges or corners, it can be re-adhered if the underlying surface is clean and intact.
  • Fading or Discoloration: In some cases, fading or discoloration can be improved, especially if it's due to surface residue.
  • Air Bubbles: Small air bubbles can sometimes be fixed by puncturing and smoothing them out.

When Not to Repair

  • Deep Cuts or Tears: If the vinyl is significantly torn or cut, a repair might not be feasible, and replacing the section is usually a better option.
  • Large Areas of Damage: When a large portion of the wrap is damaged, it's often more cost-effective and visually appealing to replace it.
  • Old or Brittle Vinyl: Vinyl that has become brittle or overly aged may not respond well to repair attempts.

How to Repair Vinyl Wrap

For Scratches and Scuffs:

  • Clean the area thoroughly.
  • Use a heat gun to gently warm the area, which can help the vinyl regain its original texture.
  • Apply a vinyl wrap conditioner or polish to restore shine.

For Peeling Edges:

  • Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol.
  • Carefully lift the edge and clean the adhesive with a 50/50 water to isopropyl alcohol mixture and allow to dry. Then use an adhesive primer and apply with heat. IF peeling continues, apply a high-quality adhesive designed for vinyl wraps. Edge sealing adhesive is a last resort to re-wrapping a panel and should not be used during initial installation.

For Air Bubbles:

  • Use a fine needle to puncture the bubble.
  • Press the air out gently towards the hole.
  • Apply heat with a heat gun and smooth it out with a squeegee.

For Fading or Discoloration:

  • IF a surface is contaminated, marred or slightly discolored, you can try the following before resorting to re-wrapping the panel.
  • Clean the wrap thoroughly with a vinyl-safe cleaner and try to rub out the contaminants on the surface with a microfiber cloth.
  • Apply a vinyl-safe polymer-based vinyl sealant to rejuvenate the color and shine. ( vvivid shield is specifically made to rehydrate discolored vinyl. )
  • If vinyl is finished in gloss - you can attempt a polish. It is critical to keep the surface to polish well lubricated as the process can build up heat and permanently damage the film.

Tips

  • Always clean the area with a proper cleaning solution before attempting repairs.
  • Be cautious with heat guns, as excessive heat can damage the vinyl.
  • When in doubt, consult a professional, especially for larger or more complex repairs.