Life-Saving Tips - What you need to know about Vinyl
What is Vinyl?
Vinyl is a plastic made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Vinyl is manufactured in different ways in a number of forms and in varying qualities for thousands of uses. A vinyl's topcoat holds in plasticizers, softening agents which keep vinyl supple.
Vinyl is a UV-sensitive material which degrades when exposed to sunlight. Maintaining the integrity of the topcoat and protecting against UV damage are the keys to keeping vinyl looking and performing "like new".
Simple Cleaning:
Keeping vinyl clean is an important part of routine maintenance. Dirt acts as an abrasive and can also wear out the thread in seams. Mildew grows on damp, dirty vinyl.
The recommended vinyl cleaning method:
Rinse with cool water.
Wash with soap (not detergent) and water using a soft cloth or sponge. For stubborn dirt, a soft bristle brush may be used.
Rinse thoroughly with water and allow to dry. Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasives, petroleum distillates and alcohols.
Protecting VinylUsing the wrong vinyl "protectant" product is worse than using no vinyl treatment product at all!
Avoid vinyl treatment products that contain any type of oil, have an oily or greasy feeling, contain petroleum distillates or leave a coating that dries like wax.
If a product label says "flammable or contains petroleum distillates", do not use on vinyl.
303® Products Saves Money And Adds Years To The Life Of Your Vinyl.
303® Aerospace Protectant ... is your best choice for vinyl care.
Specifically developed as a UV screening protective treatment for aerospace and aviation applications, "303®" provides all the protective features necessary for maintaining vinyl.
"SPF 40 SUNSCREEN... For Your Stuff"
"303®" is the world's most powerful UV screening treatment for vinyl. Regular use prevents UV fading and degradation. It truly is like "SPF 40 Sunscreen ... For Your Stuff".
"303®" protected vinyl repels dust, dirt, oils, tree sap and stains to maintain surface integrity.
"303®" restores lost color and luster. Makes faded vinyl look like "factory new" again... and with regular use keeps it that way.
"303®" treated vinyl stays cleaner longer, cleans up easier.
Easy application.Spray on, wipe dry.
Safe for rubber, plastic, glass and paint. DOES NOT CONTAIN Silicone Oils or Petroleum Distillates.
Reapplication: For maximum UV protection, reapply every 30-45 days of EXPOSURE.
CLEAR VINYL
Lacking the topcoat of regular vinyl, clear vinyl is more sensitive to UV light, scratching and "outgassing" of the plasticizers which lead to hazing, fogging, yellowing and embrittlement.
Simple Cleaning:
To avoid scratching, always rinse with water before washing. Wash with soap and water using a soft mitt. Rinse with water and allow to dry.
Protecting:
Treat both sides of clear vinyl with 303® Aerospace Protectant. Spray on, wipe completely dry. Use only clean, absorbent non-abrasive, cotton cloths.
"303®" is the only effective UV screening treatment for vinyl.
"303®" leaves an optically enhanced finish for clearer vision.
"303®" repels smudges, dirt and dust, stays cleaner longer, cleans up easier.
"303®" helps protect against scratching.
"303®" minimizes plasticizer evaporation.
303® Aerospace Protectant is the most manufacturer-recommended protectant, by name brand manufacturers of vinyl convertible tops, clear vinyl, tonneau covers, car bras, vinyl RV awnings and spa covers.
Mildew
Dirt and moisture are essential to mildew propagation. Thus keeping vinyl clean and dry is crucial to preventing mildew. ~~ Dirty vinyl + dampness = MILDEW
"303®" treated vinyl repels dirt, dust and other mildew-loving contaminants."303®" also repels water so treated surfaces dry quicker. This means mildew is much less of a problem when you use 303® Aerospace Protectant.
See our Specialist Products Shop for more information about 303® Products.
