Whether you are a professional wrap installer or a DIY enthusiast, having the right vinyl wrapping tools is essential. The right tools are the game changers. They can make or break the look of your car. So, what tools you need for a perfect vinyl wrap? If you are also thinking about this, then this article is for you. Stay with us to find out the essential tools required for flawless vinyl wrapping.
Grab the Tools
Vinyl wrap is a popular automotive service in Canada. From cars to trucks, the vinyl wraps are used to give a fresh look to your vehicle. Moreover, it protects the ride from damage. So, to achieve a professional finish to your vinyl wrap you need the following tools:
- Squeegees
- Heat gun
- Gloves
- Cutting blade
- Knifeless tape
- Infrared Thermometer
- Measuring tape
- Cleaning solution
- High-quality vinyl wrap
Have you got all the tools we mentioned above? Read ahead to know the function of these tools to know why you need them for perfect installation. So, here you go.
Cutting Blade
Here is another essential tool you need for perfect vinyl wrap installation. You need a cutting blade to cut the vinyl wrap in a shape and size that fits your vehicle.
However, cutting blades can be tricky to use. If you are an amateur it’s better to get laser pre-cut films. These high-quality vinyl wraps are available in all sizes and vehicles. Glide X laser pre-cut vinyl films are easy to use and install. Also, they withstand the tough weather conditions in Canada.
Squeegee
A squeegee is one of the most important tools you need for a perfect vinyl wrap installation. It is a flat tool made of rubber or plastic. The squeegee is used to remove trapped air and water solution from the wrap. It ensures the application of the wrap is bubble and wrinkle free
Pro Tip
Use hard felt squeegees for rough surfaces. And soft felt squeegees for smooth and glossy surfaces to maintain their shine.
Has the flawless vinyl wrap finish ever made you wonder how professionals achieve this effortlessly? The secret behind this is their expertise, and the right squeegee felt.
If you choose the squeegee felt according to the surface, you will never be disappointed. Get high-grade squeegee from reliable store to wrap your car like professionals. An excellent squeegee is easy to use and ensures it does not damage the wrap.
Gloves
Never start vinyl wrapping processing without wearing vinyl gloves.
These are special kinds of gloves made with PVC. The best thing about these gloves is that they keep the oil, dirt, and fingerprints away from the wrap. So they will keep the vinyl wrap clean and free from contaminants. Thus, in the end, you will see a flawlessly installed wrap. Removing your fingerprint or dust is no less than a challenge once it is on the wrap you are installing. That’s why, wearing gloves is important.
Pro Tips:
- Always wear clean gloves when installing vinyl wrap.
- Change the wraps frequently or after every application to avoid contamination.
- Never use latex gloves for vinyl wrapping. It leaves residue on the wrap and ruins the final look.
Infrared Thermometer
It is a professional tool but you can use it for your DIY wrap installation project too. It lets you measure the temperature of the vehicle you just wrapped. With the infrared thermometer you can determine the temperature of the surface and heat it to specified temperature only.
Knifeless Tape
Do not forget to keep the knifeless tape in your vinyl wrap installation tool kit. This tool helps you cut the wrap neatly without damaging the surface underneath. It is usually done to give the final touches to the installed vinyl wrap.
To use the knifeless tape you need to put it along the area that needs to be cut and pull it tight to create a clean cut. This tool is designed to cut the wrap precisely without using the blade on the car’s surface.
Heat Gun
You can’t miss this one. Without a heat gun you won’t be able to stretch the wrap and get it to the edges of the vehicle. Moreover, it also keeps the wrap wrinkle-free and binds it to the surface well. Heating the vinyl wrap is important to ensure the edges, panels, and car contours are neatly done.
Do you want to know at what temperature professionals use heat guns for perfect vinyl wrap installation? It’s between 140 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. I don’t need to tell you at which temperature you need to keep the heat gun for perfect installation, right?
Cleaning Solution
Installing vinyl wrap does not mean you put the wrap on the car’s surface right away. The process includes various steps including vehicle preparation. Prepping the vehicle is important to achieve a flawless finish. To ensure the car is free from dust, dirt, grease, and contaminants, you need cleaning solution. In addition, it takes away the wax and lubricants sticking to your car’s surface. You can use any cleaning solution to deal with the dirt particles and contaminants.
It also helps in installing the vinyl wrap to the car without any wrinkles. Also, the wrap adheres better to the car’s surface after using the cleaning solution. Just like beginning the wrap installation process, you will need a sealant to give the final touches to the vehicle. You can do it with car wax or protection films like PPF and ceramic coating. Do not forget to clean and maintain your vehicle well to wrap it in good shape. If the wrap is in good condition, so will your vehicle.
Conclusion
Having the skills and knowing how to install vinyl wrap is not enough. One should have all the essential tools along with the skills. This guide has mentioned all the tools you need for a perfect vinyl wrap installation. Must invest in these essential tools to make wrap installation process a cakewalk. They will help you achieve a stunning look on your car. Whether you are skilled or not, these tools are enough to transform the look of your vehicle thoroughly.
FAQs
What tools do you need for vinyl wrapping?
For a flawless vinyl wrap installation you will need a squeegee, heat gun, cutting blade, cleaning solution, and gloves.
What do you use to prep for vinyl wrap?
You can prep your car for vinyl wrap by mixing mild soap in water. This solution takes the dirt away from the car’s surface. You can also use the cleaning solutions available in the market.
How can I make my vinyl wrap stick better?
The vinyl wrap will only stick to the car if it is clean. It’s better to prep your vehicle before installing the wrap. Cleaning the car and drying it completely before wrap installation ensures the wrap adheres to the vehicle securely. Moreover, it gives a more refined finish than installing it on an unclean car.