Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get custom-designed wrap for my business?

Of course! Our in-house designers work with YOU to create a design that will work for your business. Our design process starts with a conversation about what you are looking for and what you like. We’ll then take those ideas and create a design. Before we print, we’ll make sure to check with you for approval and to make sure you love the final product.

Can I advertise my business with my wrap?

Yes! There is a lot of research that suggests that not only is vehicle wrapping extremely effective, it’s also affordable over the life of the wrap.

“Wrapped vehicles not only place messages in front of target consumers, they also provide the opportunity for direct customer contact through coupon distribution, sampling and other promotional tactics,” notes Stephen Freitas, spokesperson for the Outdoor Advertising Association of America (OAAA).

According to the Transportation Advertising Council, a division of the OAAA, vehicle advertising generates between 30,000-70,000 daily vehicular impressions.

Driving Revenues, a vehicle-advertising firm in Washington, broke those numbers down even further and compared vehicle wrapping head-on against other forms of advertising. Here is what they found a $20,000 investment buys:

  • Vehicle signage garners about 8.4 million impressions in a 12-month period.
  • Radio attracts 900,000 listeners in six weeks with 10 to 12 30-second spots.
  • Value Pak offers a reach of 600,000 with 100,000 addresses per drop and your client is just one of many advertisers included in the packet.
  • Direct mail reaches 20,000 names with one post card mailer.
  • Seven city buses get 600,000 impressions in two months.
  • Billboards get 700,000 impressions in one month.

How long does it last?

A vehicle wrap whether commercial or daily driver, is rated to last from 3-7 years. This is dependent on how the wrap is maintained, and installed. Just like paint, vinyl wrap needs to be properly maintained in order to achieve the best longevity.

Will it damage my paint?

There is always a risk when installing graphics on any painted surface. There is a slight possibility that paint can be damaged in the removal process, but we will do everything within our power to make sure that we reduce the risk of paint damage when removing old vinyl. One way to avoid paint damage is to have any old graphics removed once it is 5 years old, or once the vinyl shows signs of breaking down.

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I have some damage to my vehicle; can you cover it up?

Within reason. We can cover small dents and dings, but they will typically be more prominent once we install a wrap. If you have dents or dings that have clear coat issues, or turned rusty then we recommend getting those fixed prior to graphics installation. Vinyl is only as good as the surface it sticks to. We do not offer any manufacturer or labor warranty on vehicles that have clear coat or paint issues.

How long will my vehicle be in the installation shop?

This depends on the type of graphics you’re getting installed and the time of year they are being installed. Most vehicles will need to be at our shop for at least 2 days, some will be needed for up to a week or more. Once the outside temperature drops below 60 degrees, we request the vehicle to stay longer so that vehicle can stay in our installation bay in the heat for extra time to cure. We do everything we can in order to avoid shocking the vinyl with cold weather. With outside temperatures above 75 the vinyl can continue to cure in the heat, at your residence. We do offer loaner vehicles in order to keep your inconvenience minimal.

Do you wrap anything other than vehicles?

Yes! We can wrap any surface that vinyl will adhere to, within reason. This includes painted or primed surfaces. Vinyl will not adhere to rough plastics

How long does it take to receive a design?

We do our best to complete your design as quickly as possible. Our turn around time averages between 1-2 weeks. A more accurate timeline will be discussed during the consultation process, prior to placing you on the design schedule.

Can I see a design prior to agreeing to get it installed?

We do require a deposit prior to designing all projects, in order for our designers to work efficiently. This process allows for the design team to prioritize their projects, and create an acceptable turnaround time for all clients. We do offer free design consultation, where we can show you similar projects or ideas that we can do, and to go over your custom vision.

Is there a warranty?

Yes, there is a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. This includes premature fading and glue defects. We offer a limited labor warranty limited to the life of the vinyl. We will evaluate any case that comes back to us, and discuss a plan of action with the client.

Help! My wrap is damaged or peeling!

Don’t worry, we can help. Refer to the Vinyl After Care Page for further information.

Vinyl Car Care: All You Need to Know

Getting a vinyl vehicle wrap or a custom graphic is a fantastic way to spruce up your ride or take your advertising everywhere you go on the road. After you get a custom graphic applied by Sound FX, it’s essential to know all the basics of vinyl car care to keep it in pristine condition. There are three types of vinyl car care finishes: gloss, satin, and matte. Depending on the vinyl’s finish type, the aftercare will vary. That’s why we’re always here to help you navigate the process and keep your vinyl finish looking nothing short of supreme. Looking to vamp up your vehicle or show off your sweet business logo? Contact Sound FX to get started on your vinyl graphic installation!

Vinyl After Care

Standard Vinyl Maintenance

Knowing the basics of vinyl car care all boils down to the type of finish you get for your vehicle. However, there are rules that apply to all vinyl finishes, no matter if it is matte, glossy, or satin. When it comes to vinyl car care, you always want to avoid excessive or harsh scrubbing. To remove tricky stains, we suggest using a 3M citrus-based cleanser or a 3M marine mildew stain remover. Here are a few things to keep in mind regarding vinyl car care:

Car Washes: You can run your vehicle through the car wash, but it’s important to note that the brushes can potentially loosen the edges of your vinyl graphic over time. You also run the risk of dulling the graphic and causing premature damage and fading. Any damage from car washes voids any warranties.

Power Washing: Can be used to clean your vehicle, but note that aggressive power washing can damage vinyl graphics. Any damage from power washing voids any warranties.

Hand Washing: If you want to take your vinyl car care seriously, washing your vehicle by hand is your best bet. Gently pre-rinsing, mildly washing, rinsing, and air drying your vinyl vehicle is the least abrasive way to clean your car.

Parking: Rotating your parking spot can greatly help reduce premature sun fading. Routinely switch off where you park to keep your Sound FX GrafX intact!

Vinyl Finish Types

GLOSS:  Vinyl car care for a gloss finish will include a few steps. To clean a glossy finish vinyl, you should do the following:

  • Use a wet, non-abrasive solution
  • The solution should contain ZERO solvents or Alcohol
  • It should have a pH value between 3 – 11
  • Recommended cleaning products from 3M include Croftgate Wrap Care, Turtle Wax Ice, and Rapid Clear Vinyl Polish

SATIN OR MATTE: Satin and matte vinyl finishes are made from a glossy finish. If you do not properly perform the necessary vinyl car care to a satin or matte finish, it could return to its original, glossy state. To avoid that happening, we suggest:

  • Do NOT use any harsh chemicals or brushes when cleaning your vinyl
  • Refrain from applying any waxes, polishes, or clear coats
  • Matte or satin vinyl finish cleaners can be purchased online or at your local AutoZone

ALL FINISHES:  Wash thoroughly from the top down and avoid excessive scrubbing. If contaminants are not removed after normal cleaning, we recommend trying 3M citrus-based cleaner or 3M marine mildew stain remover on a customer test-and-approve basis.

Interior Graphics Care

  • Use mild liquid detergent and water solution and wash the graphic with a soft brush, rag, or sponge.
  • Wipe the graphic with a water-soaked sponge to wash away the detergent.
  • Dry the graphic with a clean towel.

Graphic Damage: When to Repair vs. Replace

  • Make contact with our team immediately, after damage is noticed. This allows us to have a better chance in repairing the panel and not replacing.
  • Once the graphics have been exposed to the elements, it is not possible to repair it to its original state. Sometimes graphic damage can be repaired, but visible differences will most likely occur. Repairs are not warrantied.
  • Depending on the location and extent of the damage, we can strategize our options in order to repair, patch, or replace.
  • Per 3M it is recommended to replace the total panel or full wrap dependent upon extent and location of damage.

Let’s Get Started!

Whether you’ve just installed your vinyl graphic or are interested in getting one for your vehicle, we’re happy to help you. Still have lingering questions or concerns about vinyl car care that we didn’t cover? Contact us today, and our experts will get back to you!