Installing a vehicle wrap is a complex process that requires skill and technical knowledge. In certain cases, adhesive promoters and tack reducers are used to aid application and achieve a clean, professional result. Knowing when and how to apply these products is important for a long-lasting car wrap. In this blog, we have discussed in detail how adhesive promoters and tack reducers work, the situations in which they should be used, and how they contribute to the overall durability and finish of a vehicle wrap.
What are Adhesive Promoters?
An adhesive promoter is a chemical solution that increases the tack or stickiness of a surface. It acts as a primer, creating a stronger bond between the vinyl wrap or PPF and the body of your vehicle. It is applied in small amounts to areas where you feel the wrap will lift if not reinforced. One of the recommended adhesive promoter is Pro Bond
Where to Use an Adhesive Promoter?
An adhesive promoter helps in achieving a greater level of tack, making the wrap last longer on compound curves, corrugations, edges, or recessed areas. It prevents the vinyl from lifting off these tricky spots. Apply it along the borders of panels, doors, and hoods where wrap edges are tucked. It also helps when applying vinyl to bumpers, fender wells, and door handle pockets where tension is the highest. Promoters also ensure a strong bond on rivets or other textured and irregular surfaces.
How to Apply an Adhesive Promoter?
It is imperative to understand how an adhesive promoter is applied to get the best results. Thoroughly prepare the surface before applying the wrap. It should be completely clean without any contaminants such as dust, grime, or grease. Apply adhesive promoter sparingly to the area where you want to reinforce vinyl adhesion, such as the edges. The quantity should be less. Let it dry before applying vinyl to it and smooth it out with a squeegee.
The Downside of Using an Adhesive Promoter
While you may feel that adhesive promoters prolong the life of the wrap, there are certain disadvantages to using them. When it is time to remove the vinyl, you may find it difficult to take off the film due to high tack. Some adhesive promoters also leave residue behind that is a hassle to clean and is quite time-consuming. If a large quantity of promoter is applied, it might damage the underlying surface when the wrap is removed, especially if it is not OEM paint.
You should be careful while using an adhesive promoter and always wear gloves because the chemical might irritate your skin. They may also contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be hazardous to health if inhaled. It is important to wear protective gear and have proper ventilation when working with adhesive promoters.
What are Tack Reducers?
A tack reducer is a solution that temporarily reduces the stickiness of the vinyl's adhesive, giving the installer more time to position, reposition, and ensure proper placement of the film without it adhering to the surface too quickly. You can use it on large, flat surfaces, such as hoods, roofs, or doors, where you need to lay the vinyl down with precision and want to avoid wrinkles and other imperfections. All in all, tack reducers allow for easier manipulation of wrap and a smoother installation process.
How to Use Tack Reducers?
For those new to the car wrapping journey, a tack reducer can be a good companion. It gives you more time and flexibility, making it easier to place the vinyl properly and squeegee out air bubbles for a flawless finish. If you are applying a chrome wrap or dry-install colored PPF, you might need a tack reducer to help lower the initial adhesion, allowing for a smoother, more controlled installation. Even experienced installers use it to make applications more time-efficient. Tack Reducer Pro, and Triple S are some of the products you can use.
Clean the panel thoroughly where you want to apply the wrap. Make sure the area is completely dry. Spray tack reducer onto a sponge or cloth, then apply it to the surface. Do not apply it to the edges, just on the flat central surface. According to an expert at CK Wraps, “If the tack reducer gets too close to the edges, wipe it off with some isopropyl alcohol on a cloth.” Apply sparingly, then position the vinyl wrap over the treated area. Now you can slide, lift, and reposition the film easily. Use a squeegee for a smooth finish.
Do’s and Don'ts of Using Adhesive Promoters and Tack Reducers
To use these products effectively, you must take into consideration the following points:
- Always prep the area and start with a clean and dry surface that is free from contaminants.
- Use both promoters and reducers sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
- Do not apply adhesive promoters to large areas, as this will make it extremely difficult to reposition the vinyl and can even damage the paint.
- Promoters can be tricky to handle and leave permanent damage on the car’s paint if the vinyl is removed later on.
- Do not use tack reducer on surfaces that require a strong, immediate bond, like corners or around edges, as this will prevent the vinyl from sticking and lead to failed installation.
- Do not over-apply, as too much tack reducer can prevent the adhesive from ever fully bonding to the surface, leading to a wrap that fails prematurely. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount.
Wrap Your Car Like a Pro!
Flawless vehicle customization is a skill acquired with practice. Knowing when and how to use adhesive promoters and tack reducers is important. You may not always need these. While reinforcing edges and recessed areas might seem like a good idea, some professionals advise against using promoters. So, before you start your wrapping journey, make sure to properly research adhesive products and whether you truly need them or not. By knowing when and where to use each, installers can achieve a balance of precision, durability, and professional-quality results. We do not recommend to use adhesive promoters with TeckWrap films because it has already strong initial tack. Only some of the Pro Bond can be used in deep recesses and corners.
