What is Post-Heating?
Post-heating is a technique of heating the vinyl wrap in all areas where it has been stretched to conform to channels and recesses and also the trim edges. The heating allows the adhesive to flow and form a secure bond with the substrate. It also stabilizes the face of the vinyl in the key areas where it has been manipulated. This means that it will stay down tightly in areas where we often see lifting or popping. Obviously, the process is carried out after the film has been applied.
What Tools Do I need to Post-Heat?
Post-heating is a technique of heating the vinyl wrap in all areas where it has been stretched to conform to channels and recesses and also the trim edges. The heating allows the adhesive to flow and form a secure bond with the substrate. It also stabilizes the face of the vinyl in the key areas where it has been manipulated. This means that it will stay down tightly in areas where we often see lifting or popping. Obviously, the process is carried out after the film has been applied.
How to Post-Heat Like a Pro?
Make sure the vinyl has been applied securely in any recesses and channels. Check to ensure that the vinyl hasn’t lifted in any areas and that there are no pockets of air that will cause the film to burn. When applying heat do so by working on areas between 8 to 10 inches wide. Move your heat gun over the vinyl until the required temperatures are achieved. It may take some time depending on the quality of your heat gun.
Repeat this process over all challenged and recesses. Being sure not to miss any small areas. Then apply the same process to when you trimmed the edges and areas where the film has been overlapped. Once the process has been completed, inspect the vehicle for any imperfections. The vehicle then needs to stay put for the next twelve to twenty-four hours. This allows you to listen to harden and the freight starts to stabilize.
Step-by-Step Post-Heating Technique
1.Once film has been applied, use heat to heat a small 8 to 10 inch area of the film.
2.Move your heat gun over the film in a sweeping motion.
3.Use your IR thermometer to gauge when you reach a temperature between 203 and 248 degrees Fahrenheit.
4.Repeat this process on all recesses and channels.
5.Allow vehicle wrap to cure in a garage for 24 hours.
Professional Results, DIY Know-How
If you follow these steps you’ll have a vehicle wrap that not only looks great but will stay in place for the life of the film. And, if you’re just finding this post now be sure to check out our other pieces on Cold Pre-Stretching and Heat Gun Techniques to give yourself the skills to install vinyl on your car, truck or SUV.
Know more about the car wrapping vinyl:https://www.sinovinyl.com/products/car-wrap-vinyl/
