Boat wrapping is a way to protect and customise the vessel. Most boat wraps are made from vinyl and cover the exterior surface of the vessel. They have both functional and aesthetic value. Custom-designed boat wraps have patterns or graphics. Some boat owners buy colourful wraps for their vessels. But, how long do these wraps last?
The longevity of the wraps depends on a few factors:
Material Quality
The type of material used for the boat wrap makes a difference in its durability. You should check if high-quality vinyl has been used to design the wrap. It is thicker and resistant to damage. Harsh weather elements cannot deteriorate the boat wrap. The average longevity of the wrap is around 6 years, if you can maintain it properly. What’s more, the best materials withstand UV rays and saltwater.
Flawless Installation
You must install the boat wrap properly to make it long-lasting. It is better to rely on professionals to install the cover, such as Icon Signs. They have skills to deal with the boat wrap properly. Remember that improper installation may lead to peeling and bubbling issues. Thus, you may hire experts to avoid premature damage to your vessel wrap.
During installation, the boat’s surface needs to be cleaned thoroughly to ensure a strong adhesion to the cover. The expert installers will remove the contaminants and smoothen out the rough area. They also apply heat for the installation process and ensure optimal adhesion.
Environmental Elements
Direct exposure to sun rays and climatic conditions may affect the boat cover’s lifespan. The frequency of using the boat is another factor that lets you determine the longevity of the wrap. For instance, a frequently used boat in a tropical climatic region receives intense UV rays. Thus, it has a risk of faster deterioration.
Moreover, if you leave your boat outdoors (as most of us do), they are exposed to weather elements throughout the year. These environmental factors will shorten the lifespan of the boat wrap.
Your Maintenance Efforts
Regular maintenance is vital to making your boat wrap long-lasting. Use water and soap to prevent grime and dirt buildup. Accumulated dirt damages your boat wrap over time; also, saltwater residue also affects the durability of the boat cover. So, remove the debris from the cover and keep it clean. Rinse the wrap thoroughly with water and let it dry naturally.
But, never use abrasive materials to clean the wrap or cover. You may also buy a specially formulated vinyl cleaner for this purpose.
Conclusion
You have now learned the most significant factors that affect the longevity of your boat wrap. You should check the cover quality to determine the average lifespan. Store the boat wrap in an indoor space to avoid damage and fading issues.
Many people buy pest-resistant boat wraps to cover their vessels, prevent damage from pests, or just add some style. However, even though you have purchased the wrap, you should maintain them regularly. This effort will add value to your investment in the boat wrap.