Getting the right tools is your first step to a successful wrap installation

Getting the right tools is crucial to a smooth installation and perfect finish. But there are so many different kinds just for one tool!

We could say there can be 35 tools that you would need, which would provide a smoother and safer process when you do your car wrapping. But this time we will only be introducing a part of them to you. If you have no clue about some of these, or you are not sure how to choose the right one, this article is for you!

Squeegee
Today, there are lots of different shapes and sizes of squeegees to choose from in the market. Although the choice should be based on property of the film that you are using, and sometimes the vehicle type as well, it is generally good to choose a squeegee that is made of good plastic and has medium tension, as most films are pressure activated.

However, there is also situation that is good to use a soft squeegee, as it helps the film to form easily and safely. For instance, when it comes to bumper installation. Or when you are using a carbon or brushed metallic film: They are very sensitive to scratches as there is no lamination layer. So when it comes to installation, a normal squeegee could easily create scratches, which even heat gun cannot be able to fix.

Squeegee Buffer
There are lots of buffers which are very thick and even have uneven surfaces, but what you need is a thin and very soft one. In fact, the thinner, the better. If you use a buffer that has wide and uneven surface, it would tend to push the film. The best way is to buy some pre-cut buffers.

They fit perfectly on a standard squeegee. This could save you lots of time on trimming. And they are replaceable as well. This is important, because if you use a buffer that has worn out, it would create scratches on your film. So what you also do is to check your buffer and see if there’s anything on it that is scratchy before you use it.

Knife
It is always good to use a standard light duty knife, which has 9 mm snap off blades and a plastic front. If you use one with a metal front, it would probably create scratches when you cut the film, and you would have to pay extra attention to the angle of your hand when you do it. But with the plastic front one, you can even press the knife against the surface when cutting. So it is safer and easier.

Blades
Instead of using the standard 45 degree angle blade, an acute 30 degree snap off blade is your best choice for cutting. As this kind of blade is sharp enough and it is perfect for those tricky trimming when it comes to corners and some other difficult areas.

Safety Box
Speaking of knife and blades there, a safety box is also something you would need. It is absolutely unsafe to just throw your disposal blades everywhere, either for you or others. A safety box is for safe handling of used blades which can be up to 62mm long. There are many well designed safety box out there in the market nowadays. You just simply need to insert the used part into the right slot and break it off. The blade will remain inside the box.

Tucking Tool
The so-called tucking tool is just a micro squeegee. When it comes to certain parts of the vehicle, this can quickly tuck your film behind a soft molding without any risking.

Heat Gun
We probably don’t need much explanation here. A heat gun can help to conform the film to your vehicle safely. The only things you should be paying attention to when you choose a heat gun are: is it quick enough to reach your desired temperature? Does it have strong blower and is it durable enough?

These are some of the must-need tools that you will have for every installation. Next time we will be introducing some other tools that can be optional or used in some particular situation.