Will Road Salt Damage My Vehicle Graphics?

As winter continues to cover the roads with snow and ice, road salt becomes a staple for ensuring safe travel. For businesses managing fleets with custom graphics or wraps, a crucial concern arises: Will Road Salt Damage My Vehicle Graphics?

How Road Salt Affects Fleet Graphics

Modern adhesive vinyl wraps are engineered to withstand various environmental challenges, including exposure to road salt. Premium wrap films are designed for durability and offer resistance against mild alkalis, acids, and salt. Additionally, most high-quality vehicle wraps are laminated with a protective overlaminate film, which enhances durability, provides UV resistance, and adds an extra layer of defense against road salt and other environmental hazards. However, while the vinyl and laminate provide strong protection, neglecting proper maintenance can lead to issues over time. Learn more about our fleet graphics solutions.

For more details on how salt affects vehicles in general, check out AAA’s article on how road salt and chemicals can damage vehicles.

Potential Risks of Road Salt Accumulation

Salt is inherently corrosive. When allowed to accumulate, it can compromise not only the vehicle’s metal components but also the integrity of the vinyl wrap. Prolonged exposure without regular cleaning can lead to:

  • Discoloration: Persistent salt deposits can cause the vinyl to fade or change color.
  • Adhesive Breakdown: Salt can seep into the edges of the wrap, weakening the adhesive bond and leading to peeling or lifting.
  • Surface Abrasion: Salt particles, combined with road debris, can act as abrasives, scratching the vinyl surface.

How to Protect Your Fleet Graphics from Road Salt

To ensure your fleet graphics remain vibrant and intact throughout the winter months, follow these essential steps:

  1. Regular Cleaning: Wash your fleet vehicles frequently to remove salt and grime. Focus on areas prone to buildup, such as wheel wells, the undercarriage, and lower panels. Use mild, non-abrasive soaps and avoid high-pressure washes that could damage the vinyl. Hand washing is often the safest method.
  2. Gentle Snow and Ice Removal: Avoid using hard tools like ice scrapers on wrapped surfaces. Instead, use soft-bristled brushes or microfiber cloths to clear snow and ice, minimizing the risk of scratches. Check out our article, 5 Tips for Caring for You Vehicle Wrap in the Winter.
  3. Inspect Regularly: Periodically check your fleet wraps for signs of damage, such as bubbling, peeling, or tears. Early detection allows for prompt repairs, preventing minor issues from escalating.
  4. Park in Covered Areas: Whenever possible, park fleet vehicles in covered or sheltered areas to reduce exposure to the elements. This simple step can significantly extend the lifespan of your graphics.

The Importance of High-Quality Materials

Investing in high-quality wrap materials can make a substantial difference in durability and resistance to environmental factors. Advanced vinyl wrap technology has led to improved flexibility, better adhesive bonding, and enhanced protective coatings that help resist surface damage. Choosing materials with a strong overlaminate and UV protection ensures long-lasting performance even in harsh weather conditions. Explore our vehicle wrap solutions.

You Can Keep your Fleet Looking Professional in the Winter

While road salt is necessary for winter road safety, it doesn’t have to spell disaster for your fleet graphics. By adopting regular maintenance practices and taking proactive protective measures, you can keep your fleet looking professional and your graphics in top condition throughout the harshest seasons.

For more detailed guidance on maintaining your vehicle wrap during winter, consider consulting with professional wrap installers or referring to manufacturer-specific care instructions. Contact TKO Graphix for expert fleet graphic solutions.

Note: Always ensure that any products or methods used are compatible with your specific vehicle wrap to prevent unintended damage.

Why Choose TKO Graphix?

TKO Graphix is a national fleet graphics company helping customers since 1985. We provide full-service solutions for fleet branding including graphic design, digital printing, screen printing, graphics installation, and removal of large format graphics.

We’ve been helping businesses, large and small, brand their fleet of tractor-trailers, service trucks, and company vehicles for more than 38 years. Whether you have a fleet of thousands or a few vehicles, we are here to lead you through the fleet branding process.

As a result of our high standards in quality products and production, we are proud to be certified by 3M™ and able to offer the 3M™ MCS™ Warranty, the gold standard in graphics warranties. This warranty demonstrates our commitment to excellence and gives customers a greater peace of mind.

If you’d like commercial vehicle graphics designed to capture attention, printed with state-of-the-art equipment on quality 3M film, and installed by 3M certified installers, we’re here to help. Request a free quote today.