How to Wrap a Car During Winter
Wrapping a car in vinyl wrap when it’s cold can be tricky because low temperatures make the vinyl stiff and harder to stick. But with the right approach, you can still get great results. Here’s how to do it:
1. Create the Right Environment
• Work Indoors: Do the wrapping in a warm garage or workshop. In winter time aim for a temperature between 73°F and 79°F (23°C to 26°C).
• Keep It Dry: Make sure there’s no moisture or condensation in the area.
• Use Heaters: If you can’t heat the whole garage, use portable heaters to keep the space and the car warm.
2. Get the Car Ready
• Clean Thoroughly: Wash the car to remove dirt, salt, and grime. Dry it completely.
Wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove grease or any leftover residue.
• Warm Up the Surface: Use a heat gun or portable heater to slightly warm the car’s surface before applying the vinyl. Or keep the car in the warm garage prior to application for 24 hours.
• Inspect the Paint: Check for scratches or chips. Fix these before wrapping, as they can cause problems later.
3. Prepare the Vinyl
• Keep It Warm: Vinyl gets stiff in the cold, so store it at room temperature for 24 hours before you start.
• Use Heat Carefully: Use a heat gun to make the vinyl more flexible and easier to apply.
4. Apply the Wrap
• Take It Slow: Work on small sections of the car at a time to make sure the vinyl sticks properly.
• Use Heat While Wrapping: As you apply the vinyl, use a heat gun to help it stretch and mold to the car’s curves. After applying, heat the edges and corners to make sure the vinyl stays in place.
• Don’t Overstretch: Vinyl can tear if you stretch it too much, especially in the cold. Work carefully and gently.
5. Finish Up
• Seal It In (Postheat): Go over the wrapped areas with a heat gun, focusing on edges and seams. This helps the vinyl stick better and last longer. Aim for about 195°F (90°C) during this step.
• Check for Bubbles: Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles with a squeegee or heat gun.
• Let It Cure: Keep the car in a warm space for 24-48 hours so the vinyl has time to fully stick. Don’t expose it to freezing temperatures right away.
6. Take Care of Your Wrap
• Wait Before Washing: Don’t wash the car for a few days to let the vinyl settle.
• Check Edges Regularly, especially the first days: Cold weather can make the edges lift. If that happens, reheat them and press them down again.
With these steps, you can get a clean and professional-looking vinyl wrap on your car, even in the winter. Just take your time, keep everything warm, and pay attention to the details!
