How To Remove Van Signwriting

Whether upgrading your current van signage or removing graphics from a second-hand purchase, there is a straightforward method of how to remove vehicle signage quickly and cleanly. Keep reading to find out how...

Step 1. Find yourself a blunt plastic scraper (something that won’t damage the paintwork underneath the graphics) and a hair dryer or heat gun*.

Step 2. With the hair dryer on, heat a small area of your signage to gently melt the glue beneath the vinyl. The area should not be so hot that you cannot touch it, if the vinyl is too hot it will stretch and tear rather than come off cleanly. This is not a big issue but means it will take longer to finish the job.

Step 3. With a patch of vinyl now heated, use your plastic scraper to push up an edge so there is enough to grab and pull. If the vinyl is at the right temperature, you should be able to gently pull off a sizeable piece.

Step 4. Repeat steps 1-3 till all your graphics are removed.

How to Remove Sticker Residue From Your Van

This will be one of two things: residual glue left behind or ghosting, which we cover below.

Removing Residual Glue

The first one is an easy fix; after you have removed the graphics, take a micro-fibre cloth and some tar and glue remover, then buff the area and any outlines should disappear.

Removing Ghosting From Vehicle

If this is an older van and the graphics have been in place for quite some time, you could be left with ghosting. This is where the graphics in place have protected the paintwork on the vehicle, in comparison to the paintwork that was left uncovered and has faced the elements (sun, snow, rain, hail, mud and everything else). The paintwork that is revealed after removing the graphics can have a noticeably more vibrant colour than the paintwork that was uncovered. 9 times out of 10 this will not be the case, if you have been unfortunate in these circumstances, there are three options you can take.

The first will be to use tar and glue remover on the area. If this doesn’t resolve it, you can use T-cut to obscure any harsh lines (although this is a last resort).

The best option is to have new signwriting put on your van and this should cover any noticeable colour differences.

All cases will be slightly different, so take your time and make sure the removal is done properly - this is of the utmost importance when it comes to leased vans. It is a labour intensive process (taking anywhere from 1 -3+ hours depending on how detailed the signwriting is).

Removing Vehicle Decals Professionally

If you don’t have the time to remove the graphics from the whole van, you can take it to any car valet or specialist car wash and expect to pay anywhere from £100 - £200 to have it professionally removed.

Adding New Vehicle Signage

After removing your old signs, you may want a new upgrade. Whether that’s commercial vehicle signage, bespoke graphics or van wraps, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re having a hard time deciding what signwriting you want, take a look at our van graphic solutions or browse through the gallery of graphics and wraps below. Alternatively, give us a call and we will run you through options to suit your budget.

*We do NOT recommend the use of a heat gun by non-professionals as you risk burning and blistering the paintwork on your van. This damage is non-reversible.

FAQs

Q. Can signage on vehicles be removed without damaging the vehicle's paint?
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Yes, high-quality vehicle graphics designed for vehicles can be removed without damaging the paint. It's recommended to have a professional remove the graphics to ensure there is no residue or damage. The condition of the paint prior to application and the duration of the graphics being on the vehicle can also affect the removal process.
Q. How long do vehicle graphics typically last?
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The lifespan of vehicle graphics depends on the quality of the materials used and exposure to elements like sun and rain. High-quality vinyl graphics can last up to seven years. While there are more cost-effective solutions available, these may not last as long as premium alternatives. Regular maintenance and careful cleaning can extend the life of the graphics.
Q. Should I get my vehicle wrapped?
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The answer is, 'yes you should'. A 3M study on the 'Power of Vehicle Advertising' claims up to 3,000 people see your vehicle every hour. So, once you break down the cost of a vehicle wrap or vehicle graphic over the course of its lifetime it can be as little as pennies, (depending on the design and signage solution,) making it one of the most cost-effective advertising methods available. Take a look at our vehicle signage services.

For more frequently asked questions, read our vehicle wrapping FAQS page.

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