Sign Education: Vehicle Magnetic Signs

For many people the option of having magnetic signs is a good one for temporary use. However, there are a few down falls and maintenance that goes along with vehicle magnets. There are pros and cons… and here they are:

Pros:

Easily applied, removed, replaced. Also, depending on where you go, slightly less espensive than a vehicle wrap. Great for a business with employees that need to use their cars for the job, but don’t want to have permanent graphics placed on them.

Cons:

Magnets aren’t meant to stay on the vehicles. If left on too long with exposure to sun and the elements it will result in ‘ghosting’ in the spot where the magnet is sitting on the vehicle. They have to remain flat against the surface of the vehicle to keep from falling off at high speeds-not really a problem unless the surface you placed the magnet is dirty, wet or over trim. They are not permanent and can be damaged from improper use.

Instructions for caring for your vehicle magnetic signs:

• Location-choose a relatively flat surface where the magnet can lay flat. Never install magnets over a ridge, rust, or trim.
• Installation-the best way is to ensure that your magnet adheres fully to the surface of your vehicle. Line up where you want your magnet. Let one end make contact and roll the magnet down over the surface. You should feel the magnet ‘pull’ as it rolls. If you need to adjust the magnet pick it up and try it again. Never slide the magnet to adjust the position, doing so may/will damage your vehicle’s paint and can stretch and damage the magnet.
• Removal and Cleaning-Vehicle magnets should be removed at least once a week. Clean the magnet and vehicle surface before reinstalling. Varying the placement of the magnet every time will prevent leaving a ‘ghost image’, a slight fading of the vehicle’s paint where the sign was placed.  Clean and dry the surfaces of both the magnet and the vehicle. Generally this can be done with soapy water, but check with your vehicle manufacturer, the magnet is good to go with the soapy water. Then rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
• Storing-When the vehicle magnets are not in use they should be stored flat in a clean, dry place. A metal door or filing cabinet make a good storage spot. Magnetic signs can be stacked on top of each other, but never with the magnetic part facing each other. Placing heavy objects on top of your magnets may cause creases and dimples that will interfere with adhesion upon reinstalling.