Choosing the Right Traffic Film Remover: Factors to Consider for Summer Cleaning

Summer is in full swing, and as trade professionals and fleet operators embrace the warm weather. Their vehicles face an array of unique challenges and ensuring your vehicles stay clean and protected becomes even more crucial. The sun brings a host of contaminants, including bird lime, tree sap, and bug squash, wreaking havoc on vehicle surfaces. Below, we will help you navigate the selection process by considering various factors when choosing the right traffic film remover (TFR) for your summer cleaning needs.

 

Factors to Consider:

1. Vehicle Type and Surface Compatibility: Different vehicles have varying cleaning requirements. Consider the type of vehicle you have, such as personal cars, commercial fleets, or heavy machinery. Additionally, evaluate the surface compatibility of the TFR with your vehicle’s paintwork, trim, and delicate surfaces.
2. Level of Dirt and Grime: Assess the level of dirt and grime on your vehicle. For heavily soiled vehicles, such as those exposed to summer road trips or off-road adventures, opt for a TFR with stronger cleaning power. Lightly soiled vehicles or those with sensitive paintwork may benefit from a specialised TFR formulation.
3. Stubborn contaminants like bug squash, bird lime and tree sap can leave unsightly stains. These require a powerful yet safe cleaning agent for effective removal. Look for TFRs specifically designed to dissolve, dislodge, and combat stubborn elements without compromising the vehicle’s surface or, alternatively consider specialist products.

 

Preparation:

Something particularly important to consider in the summer months, is direct sunlight and paintwork temperature. Always wash out of sunlight if possible, working small areas at a time. Cool the paintwork by rinsing with cold water. Follow usual cleaning procedures ensuring chemical does not dry on. Water spots are more problematic in summer, dry the vehicle quickly after washing.

 

Types of TFR Formulations:

1. Alkaline-Based TFRs: Alkaline-based TFRs offer powerful cleaning capabilities and are suitable for tackling tough dirt, road grime, and traffic films. They are commonly used in commercial and heavy-duty applications where thorough cleaning is essential. Ensure proper dilution and follow manufacturer guidelines for best results. ACTIVE XLS is a popular all-around TFR known for its exceptional cleaning performance. Its balanced blend of surfactants, chelate, and alkali enables rapid traffic film removal, providing a cost-effective solution for exterior vehicle cleaning.
2. High strength TFRs: High strength TFRs excel at removing stubborn contaminants like grease, and oil. They are effective for spot cleaning or targeting specific areas of heavy contamination. However, exercise caution when using High strength TFRs on sensitive surfaces and ensure proper ventilation during application. TRUCKWASH 66 with its excellent cleaning power, is specifically formulated to remove stubborn traffic film and heavy soiling. This advanced TFR effortlessly cuts through grease and oil, making it perfect for degreasing chassis and engines.
3. Trim Safe TFRs: Trim Safe TFRs provide a balanced approach, offering effective cleaning without being overly aggressive. They are suitable for regular maintenance cleaning, protecting delicate surfaces, and preserving the vehicle’s finish. Trim Safe TFRs are often preferred for personal vehicles and prestige cars. PRESTIGE XLS is designed for delicate paintwork and trim, such as those found on prestige cars, custom wheels, and motorcycles, Prestige XLS offers superior cleaning performance. You’ll achieve a thorough clean without dulling brightwork and aluminium trims.
4. Another great way to enhance the appearance of your vehicles is to wash with a premium product like TRUCKWASH 39 XLS. It contains ‘traffiwax’ which adds shine to paintwork and is the most cost-effective way to clean your vehicles and care for your livery, perfect for the summer months.

 

Recommendations for Different Cleaning Scenarios:

1. Commercial Fleets: For commercial fleets, including delivery trucks, vans, or taxis, consider an alkaline-based TFR with strong degreasing properties. These formulations are designed to handle heavy soiling typically encountered by commercial vehicles.
2. Personal Vehicles: When cleaning personal vehicles, a trim safe TFR is an excellent choice. It offers a balance between cleaning power and surface protection, making it suitable for regular maintenance cleaning without compromising the vehicle’s finish.
3. Heavy Machinery: Heavy machinery, such as construction equipment or agricultural vehicles, often face severe dirt and grime accumulation. Opt for a robust alkaline-based or high strength TFR capable of effectively removing stubborn contaminants and road films specific to these applications.

Selecting the right Traffic Film Remover (TFR) is crucial for summer cleaning to keep your vehicle in top condition. Consider factors such as vehicle type, level of dirt, and surface compatibility when making your decision. Assess the different TFR formulations, including alkaline-based, high strength and trim safe options, and choose the one that best suits your specific cleaning requirements. By making an informed choice, you can achieve optimal cleaning results and preserve the appearance of your vehicle throughout the summer season.

 

If you’re facing summer challenges get in touch with your local franchisee. They will be more than happy to demonstrate the products and help you find the perfect solution for your vehicle cleaning needs.