Livery Washing Guide

Maintenance

Use a wet, non-abrasive that contains NO solvents and NO alcohol and has a pH value between 3 and 11 (neither strongly acidic nor strongly alkaline.)

Pressure washing exterior graphics

Pressure washing can damage the graphic. After washing, check all the graphics carefully for edge lifting and repair, remove or replace damaged graphics.

Important

To avoid edge lifting or other damage to the graphics, follow these important steps:

  • Use a spray nozzle with a 40 degrees wide spray pattern.
  • The spray nozzle should include a nozzle protector (tip guard).
  • Use a pressure of less than 1900 psi (130 bar).
  • If the system is heated, limit the water temperature to 70 degrees C or less.
  • Hold nozzle at least 300 mm away from and perpendicular (90 degrees +/- 10) to the graphic.
  • Do not direct the water stream at a sharp angle to the edge of the graphic.

Automatic brush washing

Automatic brush washing may be used, but keep these two points in mind:

  • Brushes can catch a loose edge of the graphic and cause further damage to the graphic.
  • Brushes can dull the finish of the graphic.

Hand washing exterior graphics

  • Flush the graphic with clean water to remove loose dirt
  • Use a mild liquid detergent and water solution and wash the graphic with a soft brush, rag or sponge
    • Wash thoroughly from the top down.
    • Avoid abrading the graphic by unnecessary scrubbing.
    • After applying the cleaning solution, keep a steady stream of water flowing on the graphic to wash away dirt particles.
  • Rinse the entire graphic thoroughly with clean water. Allow to dry naturally.

Removing difficult contaminants

Most contaminants can be removed using one of these methods. Other cleaning products and methods should be used only on a customer test-and-approve basis.

Ensure you follow approved methods for handling any chemicals.

1.  To remove tar, oil, diesel or bituminous material:

  • Wipe with a rag dampened with kerosene, mineral spirits, heptane, or VM&P naphtha. Do not use other solvents.
  • Wash immediately with detergent and water, then rise with clean water.

2.  To remove pollen and fungus:

  • Wash the graphic with a 3 to 5% sodium hypochlorite (full-strength household bleach) solution or mild liquid detergent and water.
  • Rinse with clean water immediately.

3.  To remove crayon, lipstick, or similar materials

  • Select an appropriate solvent and test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it removes the contaminant without damaging the graphic. This must be done on a customer test and approve basis.
  • Wash immediately with mild liquid detergent and water, then rinse with clean water.

Graphic repair

Edge damage

  • Trim loose edges back to the point where the adhesive is firmly adhered to the substrate.