Summer has arrived, your boat is sporting a fresh, new wrap, and you’re ready to rock-and-rock on the water as the temp is rising! We know your boat holds a special place in your heart, and you invested a lot of time and money into your killer wrap. If we know you like we think we do, you’re asking yourself, “How do I make sure my wrap looks brand-new by the end of summer?”
Below we’ve provided a few tips and tricks required to keeping your boat looking sharp on the water:
Frequently clean your boat – we suggest approximately once a week! Rinse your boat with fresh water and then hand wash with a mild soap + water mixture (dish detergent works wonders!) You can apply the soapy mixture with a large sponge and rinse with water. Utilize a silicone squeegee to remove excess water and finish with a wipe down with a dry, microfiber cloth.
Don’t forget to polish – using a trusted polish that contains UV ray protection is guaranteed to add an extra layer of defense from the sun and salt water. We highly recommend polishing VS waxing because wax can be harmful to vinyl (you don’t want that beauty to tarnish!)
Park under a covered area when your boat is off-duty – similar to us sleeping indoors at night to protect ourselves from the elements, your boat should do the same while it’s out of the water. Stationing your ship in a garage or carport will save it from fading caused by sun and heat damage. If you don’t have a place to store your boat, a boat cover will do the trick, as well!
The No No’s of Boat Care:
- Do not use abrasive brushes, buffers, polishes, or waxes on your boat graphics. This can cause scrapes and scratches, and many standard waxes can eat away at the vinyl.
- Do not fasten your boat cover tightly without adding a layer of cloth, or soft material, between the graphics and boat cover. Metals incorporated into your cover, such as buckles, can cause unwanted abrasions to your wrap.
- We advise to avoid pressure washing or taking your boat to a car wash (hand washing is best.) However, if you do choose to pressure wash make sure to follow these guidelines: set the water temperature under 180 degree, keep water pressure under 2000 psi, stay approximately 1 foot away, and verify the nozzle is no larger than 40 degrees. Spray perpendicular to the graphic (not directly at it!)
Want to know our #1 tip for when you have questions about your boat baby? Reach out to our team at National Fleet Graphics! Our staff is fully trained to help answer all of your questions (no matter how big or small!)
