Carefully does it: how to remove old van signage

When buying a second-hand van branded with vinyls you’ll probably want to remove the logos in favour of a plain finish, or in anticipation of adding your own contact information.

A few tips:

• Assess the condition of the vinyls for signs of wear, fading, or peeling.
• Determine the type of vinyl: some vinyl graphics are easier to remove than others. Cast vinyl is generally easier to remove than calendered vinyl. Cast vinyl tends to conform better to curves and is less likely to leave adhesive residue.
• Consider the van’s history: ask the seller how long the graphics have been on the vehicle and whether they have been maintained properly. This information can help you gauge the condition and potential difficulty of removal.
• Research the original van colour: this can be helpful if you plan to remove the graphics and want to restore the van’s appearance to its original state.
Removing old signage requires careful prep and lots of concentration to ensure you don’t damage the underlying paintwork. We recommend using our professional service – and then wrapping the van in your own livery –

Step-by-step guide

Gather the necessary tools and products:

• Heat gun or hairdryer
• Plastic razor blade or a plastic scraper
• Adhesive remover or rubbing alcohol
• Microfibre towels or soft cloth
• Automotive wax or polish

Prepare the work area:

• Park the van in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight, which can make the adhesive more difficult to remove.
• Make sure the van is clean by washing it first with soap and water. This helps prevent dirt or debris from scratching the paint during the removal process.

Heating the vinyl:

• Use a heat gun or a hairdryer on a low setting to warm up the vinyl. Keep the heat source moving to prevent overheating or damaging the paint.
• Focus on one corner or edge of the vinyl and heat it until you can peel it back easily. Heating the vinyl helps soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove.

Peeling off the vinyl:

• Once the vinyl is heated, gently lift the edge with your fingers or a plastic razor blade. Be careful not to scratch the paint.
• Slowly peel back the vinyl at a shallow angle, keeping it close to the surface of the van. If you encounter resistance, apply more heat to the area before continuing.

Removing adhesive residue:

• After removing the vinyl there might be adhesive residue left on the van’s surface. Apply an adhesive remover or rubbing alcohol to a microfibre towel or soft cloth.
• Gently rub the adhesive residue in a circular motion. The adhesive should start to dissolve and come off. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the paint.

Cleaning the surface:

• Once all the adhesive is removed, clean the area with soap and water to remove any remaining residue or cleaning agents.
• Dry the surface thoroughly with a microfibre towel.

Polishing and protecting the paint:

• After removing the signage, the area might have a slightly different appearance due to UV exposure. To restore the paint’s shine and protect it, apply automotive wax or polish according to the product’s instructions.
Remember, take your time and be patient to avoid damaging the van’s paintwork. If you’re unsure about any step of the process seek professional assistance. We’re only a phone call away and always happy to assist if you’re using our state-of-the-art vehicle graphics service to re-brand. Good luck.