Waxing decals

Did you BS meter go off.
"You can wax over vinyl stickers, decals and graphics if they are smooth and glossy in appearance. For those that are matte finished it's best not to wax over them, but we have seen some really good success with Gold Class Trim Detailer lightly applied to matte finished graphics.

A couple of things to look out for:

Pointed edges on decals can be prone to lifting if rubbed over too often and once they lift, it's pretty much game over for that decal.


Dark colored graphics against dark paint (think red on black, etc) may show dried wax along the edges that you'd have to clean up with some Quik Detailer and a soft brush. Not a serious problem, just a little extra detail work.
From Michael Stoops
Product & Training Specialist | Meguiar's Inc.

Don't think it has been scientifically proven. I have never waxed mine but the decals are pealing. Trailer is 5 years old.

My BS meter didn't go off right away. I have a pole barn that my RV is stored in, so it is out of the sun unless I'm using it. BIL stores his outside in all weather. I didn't know if that had some effect.

They are faded from UV exposure. Best thing is a UV protectant, which I've been told some waxes have.

Apply 303 Protectant to your decals.

Bruce

nomad.297 wrote:
Apply 303 Protectant to your decals.

Bruce

Our RV is four years old the the decals look great, we've used 303 from the beginning.

303

Our trailer is 25 years old and we always have waxed over the decals - once or twice a year. They still look brand new - no fading or peeling.

But - the trailer has always been stored inside - I would bet that's the difference. :)

we did on our old TT and it was showing some cracks after 10 years. Our new 5th wheel had sheet with the manuals that said DO NOT wax the decals so I don't know. There are a bunch so it will be a real pain when it gets it's first wax job

Chris

The reason most will tell you not to wax the decals or graphics is that many wax with a carnuba based product. It's the carnuba in the wax that will eventually degrade the graphics.
If you use a synthetic based product like Turtle Wax Ice, or something similar, or 303, then you won't have any problems at all.
If you wax with a carnuba based product, just avoid the graphics..
Grumpy