Boat Wrap Installation Guide


What’s Included:

Our boat wrap kits are designed for larger vessels like center console boats, providing enough material to cover hull sides, transoms, and topside accents. Whether you're going for a bold custom look or adding stealth and protection to your vessel, our premium vinyl delivers both durability and style on the water.

Recommended Tools:

Pre-Installation Preparation:

1. Clean Thoroughly:

  • Wash your boat with soap and water to remove salt, algae, and grime.

  • Use 70% isopropyl alcohol to strip wax, polish, and other contaminants from the surface.

  • Pay extra attention to edges, seams, and textured areas.

2. Remove or Mask Hardware:

  • If possible, remove cleats, rod holders, rails, logos, and fixtures.

  • For items that can’t be removed, use masking tape to protect the edges and plan to trim carefully around them.

3. Plan Your Layout:

  • Dry-fit the vinyl to get a feel for how you’ll lay each panel across the hull sides, console, and transom.

  • Identify seams, curves, and transitions before peeling the backing.

Installation Instructions:

1. Start from the Stern and Work Forward:

  • Begin at the rear hull panel and apply vinyl in horizontal passes.

  • Peel a few inches of backing, align the top edge, and squeegee down using the Eco Glide Suede Squeegee in overlapping motions.

  • Work from center outward to prevent bubbles.

2. Use Heat for Contours:

  • For curves near the bow or hard chines, gently warm the vinyl using the Inferno Heat Gun.

  • Avoid overstretching—lift, heat, and reposition as needed to mold vinyl smoothly around the surface.

3. Trim Around Obstacles with Precision:

  • Use the 30° Precision Knife to cut around hardware, drains, rub rails, and seams.

  • Keep pressure light and blades sharp to avoid damaging the underlying surface.

4. Seal Edges and Overlaps:

  • After completing each section, go over all seams and edges with light heat and firm pressure.

  • This activates the adhesive and helps the vinyl bond tightly to marine-grade surfaces.

Post-Install Tips:

  • Allow the boat to sit for 24–48 hours before water exposure.

  • Avoid pressure washing for at least 5 days post-install.

  • Store your tools for future maintenance or touch-ups in the Metro Restyling Heavy Duty Tool Bag.

Finish-Specific Maintenance Tips:

Matte:

  • Use matte-safe cleaners only—no wax or polish.

  • Wash frequently to remove salt and prevent build-up.

Satin:

  • Clean with soft detailing sprays designed for satin finishes.

  • Avoid harsh cleaners and scrubbing to maintain texture.

Gloss:

  • Hand wash with microfiber and vinyl-safe soaps.

  • Use detail sprays to maintain gloss and UV resistance.