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Boat Shrink Wrapping: Worth the Investment?

As boating season comes to an end, boat owners face the crucial task of winterizing their vessels to protect them from the harsh elements. Whether you live in a cold climate or a region with milder winters, shrink wrapping your boat can provide significant benefits. This guide explores the reasons why shrink wrapping is worth the investment and offers practical advice for boat owners considering this winterization method.

Why Winterize Your Boat?

No matter where you are, winterizing your boat is essential to maintain its condition and value. Even in warmer climates like Florida or South Texas, covering your boat during periods of inactivity can prevent damage and extend its lifespan.

Reasons to Cover Your Boat:

  • Weather Protection: Shrink wrap offers excellent protection against rain, snow, wind, and UV rays, preventing weather-related wear and tear.
  • Protect from Debris: It shields your boat from falling leaves, twigs, and other plant debris that can stain or damage surfaces.
  • Maintain Appearance: It helps preserve the paint and gel coat, keeping your boat looking new for longer.
  • Keep Unwanted Animals Out: Shrink wrap prevents rodents and birds from nesting in your boat, which can cause significant damage.

Options for Covering your boat

When it comes to winterizing your boat, you have several options. Choosing the right cover depends on your budget, climate, and the level of protection you need.

Canvas Boat Covers

Canvas covers are popular among boat owners for their durability and ease of use. They are often used during the boating season to keep interiors clean and ready for use. However, they may not be the best choice for winterization due to several drawbacks.

Pros:

  • Standard and Custom Sizes: Available in both standard sizes and custom fits for better protection.
  • Ease of Use: Quick to throw over the boat and secure with straps.

Cons:

  • Wind Susceptibility: High winds can easily blow off even custom-fit canvas covers.
  • Water Resistance: They require periodic waterproofing to remain effective.
  • Cost: Custom canvas covers can be more expensive than plastic alternatives.

Example: A boat owner in a coastal area used a custom canvas cover, only to find it blown off during a storm, leading to interior water damage and costly repairs.

 

Plastic Boat Covers

Plastic covers are typically more affordable and come in a variety of styles and qualities. When choosing a plastic cover, ensure it is rated for marine and outdoor use to provide the necessary protection.

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than canvas covers.
  • Waterproof and UV Protection: Provides a basic level of protection against moisture and sunlight.

Cons:

  • Durability: May not withstand harsh winter conditions as well as shrink wrap.

Example: A boater opted for a high-quality plastic cover, which worked well for a mild winter but failed during a heavy snowfall, leading to a collapsed cover and minor damages.

 

The Best Option: Boat Shrink Wrap

For comprehensive protection, shrink wrapping is the best option. It provides a tight, custom fit that keeps your boat secure and protected from all elements.

Benefits of Shrink Wrap:

  • Precise Fit: Conforms to the shape of your boat, eliminating gaps and loose areas.
  • Rodent Proof: Prevents animals from entering and causing damage.
  • Weather Resistant: Completely moisture-resistant, shedding water and snow to prevent pooling.
  • Durable in Wind: Remains securely attached in high winds without chafing the paint or gel coat.

Example: A lifelong fisherman in the Northeast uses shrink wrap every winter to protect his boat from heavy snow and ice. This method has kept his vessel in pristine condition for years, saving him thousands in potential repair costs.

 

DIY vs. Professional Shrink Wrapping

The cost of shrink wrapping a boat can vary significantly based on whether you choose to hire a trained person or do it yourself. The services often have variable pricing, influenced by factors such as the size of your boat and your location.

Specialized Services:

  • Convenience: No need to invest in equipment or learn the process.
  • Expertise: Ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently.

DIY Approach:

  • Cost Savings: After an initial investment in equipment, the cost per season is reduced.
  • Control: You can choose the best materials and ensure the job meets your standards.

Example: A DIY enthusiast invested in a shrink wrap kit and spent a weekend learning how to wrap his boat. He now shrink wraps his boat every winter, saving money and ensuring it's done to his satisfaction.

 

Conclusion

Shrink wrapping your boat for winter is a worthwhile investment that provides superior protection compared to other covering methods. By keeping your boat safe from the elements, animals, and potential theft, you can enjoy peace of mind and avoid costly repairs. Whether you choose to hire a professional or take the DIY route, shrink wrap is the best way to ensure your boat remains in top condition through the off-season.

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Shrink Wrap Services by Mr. Shrinkwrap

For any industrial, construction, or commercial application, Mr. ShrinkWrap specializes in offering on-site shrink wrapping services across the US and overseas. Our professionals offer shrink wrapping services in a variety of applications, using tried-and-true techniques and outstanding plastic shrink wrap of extraordinary strength and longevity.


Shrink Wrap Services

Boat Shrink Wrapping Service

Mr. ShrinkWrap offers on-site boat shrink wrapping services throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, as well as occasionally in bordering states. You can count on us to finish all on-site work in 7–10 days once the boat is prepared for wrapping.


As part of our standard services, we wrap the boat down to the waterline to ensure even coverage on the hull, and we thoroughly ventilate it using a variety of shrink wrap vents in various locations throughout the boat, paying particular attention to peak areas where water vapor and condensation are likely to collect. Zipper doors are an extra-cost option for boat owners who want access to the interior of the cover while it is wrapped.


We take pride in being one of the first shrink wrapping businesses in the U.S. with a 25+ year history. These years of experience have allowed us to perfect our methods and products. From wearing booties on your yacht to us taping every last heat sealed seam, we pay attention to every last detail. We make sure to care of the specifics, including wrapping around flexible windshields with caution, avoiding strain on radar and antenna equipment, and building a framework that will consistently shed rain, withstand wind, and wrap down to the waterline.


Contract Packaging & Co-Packing Services

For the purpose of streamlining the value chain for our clients, Mr. Shrinkwrap provides “Contract Packaging” or “Co-Packing” services. We pack the goods that you require in bundles, multi-packed packages, or individually wrapped using our in-house sealers, heat tunnel machinery, and premium film. We have the capacity to receive and organize all of your goods so that you may quickly complete your project. We specialize in small batch services.


Using a “Contract Packaging Service” has a lot of advantages. Working with a contract packaging service ensures that the cost per unit for your company is competitive from the start. By hiring us as a contractor, you can also avoid incurring significant startup costs and learn important details about the project's scope, schedule, and prospective training or labor expenditures. When making future plans and keeping in mind the financial health of your organization, this kind of information is highly helpful. Additionally, by utilizing our own equipment, you will free up space in your building.


Our “Contract Packaging Service” will make sure that your products receive the care and consideration they require. Throughout the packing process, we verify and double-check machine parameters and output quality. When a product's packaging isn't exactly how we want it to be, we remove it and re-wrap it until it satisfies our requirements for quality. We place a premium on accuracy and have high standards in that area.


Industrial Shrink Wrap Services

The industrial market is well served by Mr. Shrinkwrap's expertise in industrial shrink wrap services. In every application, safety comes first, followed by safeguarding your belongings while they are being shipped or stored. We can install a custom shrink wrap cover that will perform to the highest industrial requirements using the appropriate materials and tried-and-true installation processes in various circumstances when you need to protect a large item in shipping.

We can assist you with keeping manufacturing items safe during transport or outdoor storage. We protect your completed product from fading and damage caused by lengthy outdoor storage by providing specialized applications such as zipper doors, corrosion control, and ventilation products.


Residential Shrink Wrap Services

Use shrink wrap to protect your outdoor furniture throughout the winter. Outdoor shrink wrap products and shrink wrap services from Mr. Shrinkwrap will help you safeguard your investment from damaging UV rays and keep your outdoor furniture looking tidy when it's time to store it. Our on-site service team can shrink wrap any outdoor furniture that needs to be protected from the elements, including chairs, gazebos, outdoor kitchens, and tables. We are delighted to offer on-site shrink wrapping services anywhere in the tri-state region of Southeast Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, whether it be at your residence or a dry storage facility.


Transport & Shipping Shrink Wrap Services

The preparation of substantial, frequently oversized, loads for over-the-road, rail, and marine transit is Mr. Shrinkwrap's area of expertise. Our service teams have used industrial quality shipping shrink wrap to protect and conceal some of the most delicate and priceless objects that travel the roadways, including items being shipped as far away as Japan and frequently across the nation. Our technicians are qualified to operate in any US transportation-related institution, have had their backgrounds examined, and are experienced, background-checked, and prepared to travel abroad. Shrink wrapping gives products a neat appearance that inspires trust that they will arrive without damage from road grime or other occurrences. Large or bulky things can be packaged economically and attractively by shrink wrapping them. Shrink wrapping can be done with pallets, crates, or even on a flat-bed truck and takes less time than traditional methods.


Building / Scaffolding Shrink Wrap & Temporary Walls

Mr. ShrinkWrap offers shrink wrap services that can improve the timeliness of building projects and the preservation of property. One solution we offer in this field is “Scaffolding Shrink Wrap Containment,” which allows work to continue even in poor weather by enclosing scaffolding. Another service we offer is referred to as "Entire Building Shrink Wrap," which offers a higher level of climate control and enables work to proceed through bad weather. Some businesses may find that a service called “Temporary Walls & Partial Building Containment" is more fitting for their project. This service uses shrink wrap partition walls, ceilings, or full enclosures to enable the ongoing use of areas nearby construction, restoration, or environmental cleanup projects.


Transportation or Storage Shrink Wrapping for Large Items

When carrying flatbed truckloads of any kind of sensitive item, the state of the finished product upon arrival depends greatly on the cover and the preparation of the item for road transportation. Mr. Shrinkwrap offers goods and/or shrink wrapping services that can help you coordinate the packaging of your goods with your company's core principles, and improve you company's first impression when customers see your goods. Large objects or bulky items can be packaged attractively and affordably by shrinking wrapping them. The shrink wrap procedure takes less time than traditional methods and can be applied to flat-bed trucks, pallets, boxes, and other items.


Why Choose Mr. Shrinkwrap's Services?

The secret of our wrapping service lies in our nearly two decades of experience in identifying our clients' needs for protection. Our staff can suggest the best application approach to satisfy those needs after the variables of size, duration, mobility, and accessibility are determined. The premium shrink films that we use offer a superb protective layer around an object when they are correctly applied by our trained staff.


Our teams are dependable and receive safety training along with drug testing. Mr. Shrinkwrap technicians and supervisors have TWIC cards for access to ports and other high-risk locations. They have also been trained to enter any US nuclear plant, with their training documented in the PADS systems.


Request a Quote

Why not get in contact with us today to see how shrink wrap services by Mr. Shrinkwrap can help your company? Our experts are happy to help you find the ideal solution for your professional shrink wrap service needs. Give Mr. Shrinkwrap a call at 800-847-5290 or request a custom quote for your shrink wrap service, today!

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Choosing the Right Heat Gun

The heat gun is a powerful tool used in many different industries, for both professional and hobby projects. This handheld instrument, which bridges the gap between a blowtorch and a modern hair dryer, is surprisingly flexible and will serve you well whenever you require a safe, flameless source of consistent heat. Electronic repairs, refinishing, plumbing, surface preparation, glass installation and more may all be completed much more quickly with the correct heat gun in your toolkit!



What Are Heat Guns Used For?

Heat guns are powerhouses with a level of versatility that is often underestimated. In terms of shrink wrapping, heat guns are commonly used to shrink wrap products for additional protection during their transit, shrink wrap products for packaging, as well as shrink wrapping common objects such as outdoor furniture and boats during the winter months.


Besides shrink wrapping, heat guns are often used to shape other plastic materials such as paint. In fact, the capability of a heat gun to make paint removal much easier is worth the cost of a heat gun, in and of itself. Dried and worn paint comes off in tidy strips using a heat gun-- these strips can then can be carefully scraped off, leaving the surface clean and suitable for re-sanding. Heat guns can also be used to loosen tiles if you wish to preserve them and keep them intact during removal.


Heat guns are also useful for reshaping things like tar roofing hips and tarps, welding plastic sheets, and bending PVC pipelines and conduits. A heat gun is also useful in the garage for tasks like removing and reinstalling window tint and cleaning trim to restore its black glossy finish. Heat guns can also be used to defrost frozen pipes, dry out damp wood, close up shrink wrap packaging and shrink film, patch vinyl and leather, and reupholster furniture around the house. A heat gun is a gadget with numerous applications, and you may even come up with some new uses of your own!



Heat Gun Options to Consider While Shopping

Industrial or DIY

Heat guns, like other power tools, are designed for either DIY or professional use. In this case, DIY refers to someone who will only use the instrument occasionally, such as a homeowner peeling paint off their windowsills or an electronics hobbyist heat shrinking cable covers in their spare time. A professional user, on the other hand, is someone who utilizes the tool on a daily basis, such as at a packing warehouse or a garage.


An example of a DIY Heat Gun would be: Hot Shot Heat Gun
An example of an Industrial Heat Gun would be: Ripack 3000 Heat Gun Kit - Heat Gun, Case & Pressure Regulator



Electric or Propane

Electric heat guns are more typically used for paint stripping and drying, heating electrical tubing, upholstering or mending vinyl, and other tasks. Propane heat guns are meant to last longer and are better suitable for industrial applications such as shrink wrapping bulky objects.


Propane Heat Gun Example: Shrinkfast 998 Heat Gun
Electric Heat Gun Example: Industrial Electric Heat Gun HG 2620 E by Steinel
Electric Cordless Heat Gun Example: Mobile Heat 5 Cordless Heat Gun with 8.0 Ah Battery and Case by Steinel



Adjustable Temperature

Heat guns are often equipped with some kind of temperature adjustment control to allow them to handle a variety of jobs. Basic devices may have two or three fixed settings, whereas more complex instruments will have infinitely changeable controls that allow precise temperature control.


For a great heat gun with an adjustable temperature setting, see our Professional Electric Heat Gun - 120 to 1300 °F (In Plastic Case) HG 2520 E by Steinel



Fine Dust Filter

Professional devices, such as the Steinel HG 2220 E Professional Hot Air Heat Gun, include built-in fine dust filters; this is especially useful if you work on construction sites or in similar conditions where your hot air tool would be exposed to fine dust and debris from drilling, sawing, grinding, and sanding activities. Without this feature, dust would be pulled into the machine via the fan, causing it to accumulate inside the housing over time, potentially blocking and harming the internal components. A fine dust filter is a simple and effective method for preventing the bulk of these particles from entering the tool, and it is designed to assist the machine's performance, efficiency, and service life.


Learn more about our Steinel HG 2220 E Professional Hot Air Heat Gun



Airflow Control

When working with lightweight materials or near sensitive surfaces that you don't want damaged by heat, an adjustable airflow control allows you to reduce the force of the blast from the nozzle. Similarly, you can increase it to get more air speed and therefore faster outcomes. This, like temperature control, can be a series of fixed speeds or a continually adjustable dial for more extensive control.


A great example of heat guns with airflow control would be our Industrial Electric Heat Gun HG 2620 E by Steinel



Visual Displays

Professional users who operate to precise specifications may appreciate the advantages of an LCD or LED display, which can display visual information on temperature and airflow speed settings-- elements that are difficult to measure on machines with continuously variable settings. This allows for consistent outcomes and the confidence to work with more sensitive materials or jobs that necessitate precise heating settings.


One great example of heat guns with digital displays is our Professional Electric Heat Gun HG 2320 E by Steinel



Heat Gun Kits

In some cases, it may make more sense to purchase a pre-packaged heat gun kit for your specific need. Heat gun kits typically come with everything that you are going to need to get your project going, all in one kit. The types of heat gun kits vary from boat shrink wrap kits to roofing kits. Select the heat gun kit that is right for your project and take the guesswork out of what you'll need!


One of our boat wrapping heat gun kits: Single Large Boat Shrink Wrap Kit - Heat Gun, Tools & Accessories - Includes Ripack 3000
One of our roofing heat gun kits: Mobile Heat 5 Cordless Heat Gun Roofing Kit by Steinel



Accessories & Nozzles

When selecting a heat gun, the equipment alone is not always the only factor to consider. If you intend to use it for a certain purpose, it is worth investigating what nozzles and attachments are available to assist you with the duties at hand. Some manufacturers provide a diverse selection of nozzles and accessories that can be purchased separately, significantly improving the versatility and precision with which their equipment can be utilized. When you purchase a new heat gun, it will usually come with at least one or two nozzles, allowing you to do some of the most basic jobs right away.


View our Heat Gun Accessories



If you're looking for a new heat gun, either for yourself or as a present for someone else, take a look at the heat guns on our website! If you'd like some more specific advice on choosing the best tool for you, give us a call at 1-800-847-5290 and we'll help you to find the perfect solution for your specific heat gun needs.

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Use and Benefits of Shrink Wrap in Packaging Products


When it comes to protecting against product tampering and environmental harm, shrink wrap is your best choice. Your products, regardless of what they are, need to be shielded from the outdoors and protected from dirt, humidity and contamination, by quality shrink wrap. Products like perishable food items can even have their shelf lives extended by proper protective shrink wrapping.

The plastic shrink wrap and heat/steam are the only two things needed for the simple and efficient process of shrink wrapping. Any object can be wrapped in plastic film for shrink wrapping, which causes the plastic to contract when heat is applied to the surface. As the plastic contracts, it molds to the shape of the object and self-seals, making it waterproof and tamper-evident. Additionally, there are no size restrictions when using shrink wrap, so even the largest goods can be protected.

Shrink wrapping is particularly crucial in the food industry. Everyday, this incredible plastic invention assists small, medium, and large-sized enterprises in lowering prices and extending the shelf life of their items, thereby elevating quality and decreasing food waste.

Benefits of Shrink Wrap:

Excellent Protection and Durability

One of the most reliable packaging options is shrink wrapping. Shrink wrap is sturdy and difficult to tear. Shrink wrap will not easily yield to most strains, even when handled roughly. Sharp objects are the only things that can pierce the shrink wrap. Even then, the shrink wrap is often difficult to tear away.


Cost-effective and simple to use

Your business can make significant financial savings by purchasing automatic shrink wrap machines. The machine's initial investment can appear a little costly at first, but with increased speed and reduced labor costs, a shrink wrap machine will significantly reduce costs in a short amount of time.


Scalable Packaging Solution

Scalability is one of the numerous benefits of shrink wrap packaging. This means that you do not need to produce films in various sizes to fit objects with various dimensions. The same kind of film can be altered to fit products of various sizes. For instance, the same variety and size of the film can be used for packaging of one-liter and two-liter water bottles.



Shrink wrap can be used for a wide range of items regardless of their sizes due to its scalability. That is both logistically practical and practical from an economic standpoint.



Prevents the Tampering of Your Goods

The packaging of a product is the best indicator as to whether or not it has been tampered with. The seal or packaging of a fresh or unaltered product will be intact. On the other hand, if the box or seal is broken in any manner, you can assume that the product has been tampered with.



Sometimes people can seal packaging to restore it to its original condition even after tampering with the products. This occurs frequently when using cardboard cartons. With shrink wrap, however, one cannot do the same. Shrink wrap is secured in place. The shrink wrap package cannot be reassembled once it has been cut open. The only way to make it look brand new is to take it to a shrink wrap machine and completely replace the packing.

Preserving Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables benefit greatly from shrink-wrapping since it extends their shelf life while maintaining the quality of the produce. This style of packing protects the products from contamination. Additionally, it guarantees breathable packing to maintain the product's overall quality.



In nations like Japan, these wrappers have been in use for a very long time. Since the Covid-19 pandemic began, individual fruit and vegetable packaging has become more and more commonplace, ensuring that the food we eat is clean, fresh, and devoid of bacteria and germs.

By preventing oxygen from getting to the object inside, shrink wrap prolongs the shelf life of the enclosed fruit or vegetable, and slows down the process of decomposition. Less energy is needed to manufacture and deliver a similar product the longer it has been deemed safe for consumption.

Product appearance

The fact that the film is clear is one of the many advantages of shrink wrapping. This ensures that even when encased in the container, objects like fruit and vegetables may still be seen. This makes it easier for the buyer to evaluate the product's quality and ensures that they select the best item available to them. The ability to print on the material makes shrink wrap a significant marketing asset, letting the consumer see what is inside while still allowing the corporation to add crucial information or branding to the packaging.


Reduces Space

Packaging with cardboard is wasteful, as these boxes are large and occupy a lot of space. You can occasionally have trouble locating boxes that are the appropriate size for your merchandise, and in these circumstances, it's likely that you'll use boxes a few sizes too big. This results in even more space loss. Shrink wrap can be used to prevent all of this.



Shrink wrap, as opposed to boxes, conforms to the product. Shrink wrap packaging adjusts itself to fit the size of the goods. This guarantees complete space use and zero waste. Shrink wrap packaging can therefore assist you in making the most of the space in your warehouses or other storage facilities.


Simple to Transport

Shrink wrap packaging is a useful method of shipping various products because of its capacity to conserve space. The space in freight vehicles may be fully used with this kind of packaging. By reducing the number of trips necessary to transport a specific number of products, you can thereby save costs.



Shrink wrap packaging is possibly one of the most effective packing options available. It allows you to cut costs while ensuring the safety of your goods.

These are just a few of the benefits of using shrink wrap for your business. Why not get in contact with us today to see how shrink wrap can help your company? Our experts here at Mr. Shrink Wrap are happy to help you find the ideal solution for your business needs. If you would like to place an order over the phone or have questions for us, give Mr. Shrink Wrap a call today at 800-847-5290!

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How Do Shrink Machines Work?

Shrink wrap machines are an important aspect of many businesses, especially when large amounts of merchandise are involved. Have you wondered if a shrink wrap machine would be right for your company, and if so, which kind of machine you would need? There's no reason to look any further because we've included a comprehensive list of shrink wrap machine types to help you better understand the types of machines available and their methods of operation!

What is Shrink Wrap?

Shrink wrap is a polymer plastic film used to protect items. Using a heat source to shrink the wrap to the dimensions of the product it is covering, shrink wrap is applied to fit a product securely. Either a shrink wrap machine or a hand-held heat gun is used as the heat source.

Types of Shrink Wrap Machines and How They Operate:


Chamber Sealer

As the name implies, the chamber sealer passes the items through a chamber or compartment where a film of shrink wrap is used to wrap the item in. The shrink-wrap is compressed and forms a solid covering over the object in this chamber as it is heated enough to do so. Depending on the width of the plastic, the time for this operation varies.

L-sealer

This specific variety of shrink wrap machine was developed to accommodate larger sizes of shrink-wrapping material. If you have an automatic L-sealer handy, set it up, plug it in, and place the thing you want to seal inside. Two sealing bars on this device have the shape of a backward "L." In order to form a pouch-like aperture via the crinkle of the folds and allow your goods to pass through, shrink film bends down the two bars.

Once your object has been securely positioned inside the crease, the shrink film has three other sides that need to be securely sealed. When an object is fully loaded into the machine, the L-sealer can identify when to cover it with shrink film. Later, a shrink tunnel in the manufacturing line gets a hold of the unheated part of the shrink wrap attached to each product and warms the wrap so that it can firmly and securely fit around each item.

Side Sealer

This is the quickest and most practical way to bundle a large number of products in a short period of time. The goods are wrapped in a continuous pipe of film, with each unit being divided downstream by a crisscross seal after being covered on one side. There are typically two configurations for the side sealers: two or three belts.

Compared to an L-sealer, a sealer with two belts is a little larger and removes one of the side sealer belts to create the last seal just before the side seal. When you need to wrap larger things but don't have the time to extend the length of the production line, this type is the most effective.

The sealers with three belts, on the other hand, are slightly larger than those with two belts and have the advantage of precisely spacing the items before they enter the section where they are to be wrapped.

Combo Shrink Systems

Combo shrink systems provide a quality shrink packaging solution in a compact footprint. Systems are available as automatic combo systems or semi-automatic combo systems. Combo systems are available in greatly equipped heavy duty combos, or you can find more compact sizes and customize your options with a standard duty combo system. L-bar sealers and heat shrink tunnels are combined in one industrial shrink wrapping machine to provide tightly wrapped packaging solutions. First, sealed in a bag using the L-bar sealer, the package then moves to the shrink tunnel where the film is heated and shrinks around the package. Shrink wrap machines are used to provide a transparent, tightly wrapped package. Practical and cost effective, shrink packaging is great for packaging boxes, cartons, multi-packs, & beverage cans.

How Can Mr. Shrinkwrap Help?

With the seemingly endless amount of shrink wrap products and machines available on the market, it can be a daunting task to attempt to figure out which products are the best fit for your company. By contacting a reputable shrink wrapping company regarding your needs and questions, you can find exactly the methods and products that are right for you!

Mr. Shrinkwrap is a leading distributor of protective products, shrink wrap films and installation supplies with a dedicated team available to take your order at any time of day. We have several experienced shrink wrap installation technicians on staff to help and support you on various aspects of any shrink wrap project. If you would like to place an order over the phone or have questions for us, give Mr. Shrinkwrap a call today at 800-847-5290!

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How to Shrink Wrap Your Boat for the Winter

You've worked hard for your boat-- inevitably putting much time and money into ensuring that she runs well and stays in great shape. This upkeep doesn't stop in the wintertime, and shrink wrapping your pride and joy during these winter months is a key step in protecting your investment. Shrink wrapping your boat is ideal for winter storage as it will prevent animals and rodents from entering. Shrink wrap is also non-permeable and will prevent moisture from getting inside, which can cause mildew to grow inside your boat over the wintertime. Shrink wrapping your boat offers anywhere from 6 months to 1 year of protection from the elements.

Preparing for the Shrink Wrap

For optimal protection, move your boat to a protected and well-ventilated location. You can leave smaller speed boats or sail boats on their trailer while you winterize them. If you have a larger or heavier boat, such as a yacht, you'll need to put your boat on blocks for the winter. It’s best to do your winterizing of your boat at the location that it will be stored in to avoid possibly damaging the shrink wrap in moving the boat, after shrink wrapping.

Cover any fuel vents with shrink wrap tape to seal them to protect your vessel. Turn off the fuel line valve and drain any remaining fuel out of the line. Completely seal the vents to prevent heat from igniting fuel vapors, using as much tape as you need to block off the vents. If you're not sure where your vents are located, consult your boat manufacturer's owner manual for their location. Use cushions and towels to protect sharp corners this will keep the sharp parts from tearing the shrink wrap’s seal. You will want to cover all of the sharp edges completely to make them blunt. Make sure that your shrink wrap can rest on these edges without breaking. Some areas to consider are the windshield, corners, antennas and ski pylons.

Build a Frame

Next you’ll want to set up support posts along the center of your boat. Each post needs a bottom and a top cap to hold it in place properly. Place support posts in the open areas on the boat's deck. Place the first one near the bow, making sure that it's at least 10 inches above the highest point on your boat. Place the second post near the boat stern. While smaller boats only need two posts, you'll need additional posts to support the shrink wrap on larger boats. You want one additional post for every 8 feet of boat length that you need to cover. Tie down your posts in place with polyester straps that are strapped from the back end of the bow to the front and then thread the strap through the grooves on the support post caps.

Place more straps, side to side, across the boat including a single strap for each cap. Buckle all of the straps to the grab rails or cleats along the boat’s edges to keep them locked in place. If your straps look loose your shrink wrap will also be loose, so make sure that they are tight and secure. If you can't find a place to anchor the strapping, you can run it all the way down to the trailer underneath the boat.

Tie loops to the end of each piece of strapping using a basic overhand knot. Using a different type of knot is also fine as long as the straps are well-secured. Measure from the end of the strapping to about 8 inches below the metal rub rail around the edge of the boat cut new straps to length, then tie the straps to the cleats and Edge rails. Shape the free ends of the straps into well tied loops, about a half-inch in size.

Starting at the rear--or stern-- end of the boat, run a new piece of strapping through each of the loops that you tied, making sure it fits tightly against the boat's side. When you get back to the stern, tie the ends of the strap together with a buckle. Pull up the strap as tight as you can before tying it. You can tie the perimeter band around the boat's propeller. Use the propeller as an anchor point to keep the strap tight and secure.

Applying The Shrink Wrap

You'll need to determine just how much material you'll need in order to shrink wrap your boat properly. Use a tape measure to measure from the center of the boat down to the metal rub rail on the side of the boat. Add an extra 8 inches so that the sheet reaches to the perimeter band that you install later. Add another 6 inches to fold underneath the band. Double your estimate to account for the other side of the boat. Measure down from the highest point of the boat which is usually one of the supports that you set up earlier, down to the lowest point and keep in mind that it is better to use too much shrink wrap then to not have enough.

Draping

Starting from the top of the support posts, drape the shrink wrap film working your way down to the hull. The shrink wrap needs to be long enough to reach the perimeter band. Leave an extra 6 inches on all sides to cover the perimeter band. Cut off any excess material as needed with a film knife. Try to use a single piece of shrink wrap to cover the entire boat. If you need to use two pieces of shrink wrap, join them with shrink wrap tape and heat.

Heat

Wear a heat-resistant glove to protect your hand as you work. Hold the heat gun slightly above the edge of the shrink wrap. Work your way all around the boat lightly heating and patting down the tucked-in edge. Leave the back edge of the boat alone, for now. Add belly bands every 6 inches along with shrink wrap. Use your film knife to cut small slits in the shrink wrap. Measure the distance along the trailer tying polyester strapping to it. Then, thread strapping through the slats. knot the strapping tightly and cut off excess material. These belly bands keep the shrink wrap film pulled tight, which leads to a better overall seal.

Head to the stern and then again, tucking the shrink-wrap like you did the other boat side, cutting off any excess material as needed and covering the propeller or any exposed parts. Heat the edge of the shrink wrap to flatten and secure it to the boat. If you need to, reach under the stern to heat the shrink wrap from the opposite angle. Take your time as the film can tear if you work too quickly. When you're done, the shrink wrap will hang lower than it does on the rest of the boat.

Using a motion similar to spray painting, hold the gun about 6 inches above the boat and begin heating your shrink film working on one side of the boat at a time. Starting near the rub rail, move the gun steadily towards the front of the boat while heating the shrink wrap film flat. Use your gloved hand to smooth out any wrinkles that you notice as you go. Avoid overheating or melting the wrap, keeping track of the areas that you've already worked on. Work on the boat in sections.

The safest way to shrink the uppermost part of the sheeting is with an extension. Work from back to front until the entire sheet looks flat and wrinkle-free. You can also use a ladder to reach the top part portion of the boat if you do not have an extension. If you do decide to use a ladder, make sure that you are able to reach the top part of the boat without falling.

Venting and Sealing

Cover over any holes that you see with a thick layer of sheet wrap tape, then warm the tape briefly with a heat gun to cause it to stick to the shrink wrap. Also tape over noticeable seams joining shrink wrap sheets together. The tape adheres better when the shrink wrap is still warm. You may need to warm up cooled off shrink wrap briefly before attempting to apply tape.

Place vents along the sides of the boat. You will need between four and six vents for a small powerboat. Space these vents out along the boat, placing a vent close to each corner. Stick the vents directly onto the shrink wrap. A great place for the vents is over your boats taped up fuel vents. These vents let moisture out from underneath the shrink wrap, preventing mold from growing on your boat. Larger boats will need more vents.

Cut open the vent before installing a cap over it using a film knife to slice away the shrink wrap inside the vent opening. The vent cap comes included with any vents that you purchase. Once all of your vent caps have been firmly lodged onto their vents, you've completed the main winterization process of your boat!

Zipper Doors (optional)

Installing a zipper door is similar to the process of installing a vent. You may need to install a zipper door if you will need to enter the boat during the winter/while it is wrapped. Find an accessible spot on the top of your boat, then lay the door over the shrink-wrap. Tape the door in place before cutting out the opening. Pull the zipper close to the door until you need to climb inside the boat.


At Mr. Shrinkwrap, we have everything that you need to shrink wrap your boat for the winter, including Boat Wrapping Kits, Zipper Doors and more! Shop our amazing range of products to get exactly what you need. You can get in touch with us via our online form or simply call us at 800-847-5290.

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Choosing the Right Stretch Wrap

It's time to pack and ship your products, and you're unsure which stretch wrap is right for you. Have no fear-- Mr. Shrinkwrap is here! Whether you are packaging products to ship or wrapping equipment for storage, with the proper guidance in this article, you will be able to choose the very best stretch wrap for the job-- ensuring a safe transit for your products, limiting the amount of wrap used/money spent on each pallet or job, and providing maximum safety and efficiency for your company's employees.

What Is Stretch Wrap Gauge ?

Gauge is a measure of a stretch wrap’s thickness. Generally, the higher the gauge, the higher its resistance to breakage. General purpose 80-gauge wrap is the industry standard, and can secure loads up to 2,400 lbs.

Higher gauge wraps tend to be more expensive, but are thicker and do not need to be wrapped around as many times on a job.

Gauge can be converted into mils, microns or other units. Here is a conversion chart:

Gauge

Mil

Micron

Millimeter

Inch

35

0.35

8.9

0.0089

0.00035

45

0.45

11.4

0.0114

0.00045

50

0.50

12.7

0.0140

0.0005

60

0.60

15.2

0.0152

0.0006

80

0.80

20.3

0.0203

0.0008

100

1.00

25.4

0.0254

0.001

120

1.20

30.5

0.0305

0.0012

150

1.50

38.1

0.0381

0.0015

180

1.80

45.7

0.0457

0.0018

200

2.00

50.8

0.0508

0.002

Popular Stretch Wrap Gauges

37 Gauge: A pre-stretch wrap suitable for light, uniform loads of up to 800 lbs

60 Gauge: A light true-gauged film suitable for light to medium loads up to 1,600 pounds.

80 Gauge: A versatile, medium-duty true-gauged film for loads up to 2,400 pounds. This is the most common stretch film thickness.

100 Gauge: A heavier-duty true-gauged film that can hold loads up to 3,000 pounds. Machine stretch wrap in this gauge can be used to wrap pallets of heavy, irregular objects such as steel beams or 55-gallon drums.

150 Gauge: A heavy-duty true-gauged stretch film for extremely heavy loads, loads with many sharp points or corners, and heavy irregular objects that may shift during transit. Typically must be machine-applied to achieve proper tension.

Types of Stretch Wrap

  • Pre-Stretched Stretch Wrap has been mechanically stretched prior to rolling, so it is thinner than its true-gauged equivalent. Pre-stretching 80-gauge film results in a 37-gauge pre-stretch film. This creates a lighter wrap, but with a similar hold to its true-gauge counterpart.
  • True-Gauge Stretch Wrap has not been pre-stretched. The thickness it has afte the extrusion process is the thickness it has on the roll.
  • Hand Films are great for small shipping and containment applications, and can be used to bundle items, or hold items in place on a pallet. A single operator can wrap a pallet with hand film in just a few minutes by stretching the film while walking around the pallet. Hand wrapping is typically ideal for those who unitize less than 10 pallets per day, have decentralized warehousing or need a backup to powered stretch wrapping equipment.
  • Opaque/Product Concealing Wraps are completely solid in color, not clear or tinted. These wraps provide privacy, conceal shipments, and help to prevent theft.
  • Corrosion Inhibiting Wraps protect shipments that are prone to corrode from moisture.
  • Anti-Static Wraps protect shipments that contain sensitive electronics from static discharge.
  • Machine Film is used with powered stretch wrapping equipment. There are several different types of powered stretch wrapping equipment available today. The most common are rotary spiral pre-stretch machines. The Rotary Spiral Pre-Stretch machine wraps the pallet load in a spiral fashion using film widths of 20” or 30”.
  • Colored/Tinted Stretch Film is used to organize and identify pallets and products.

Things to Consider When Choosing Your Stretch Wrap

  • The weight of the load. The heavier the load, the stronger your stretch wrap gauge will need to be.
  • The shape of the load. Uniform loads, such as pallets of same-size boxes, require less holding power and durability (and a lower gauge) than highly irregular or unstable loads with lots of sharp corners and edges.
  • Do you and your staff have the proper tools and training? Large, heavy, and oddly shaped items that require high-gauge stretch wrap may require the use of stretch-wrapping machines in order to be wrapped safely and efficiently. These machines unfortunately are not typically cheap, and you want to make sure that any staff using such machines is properly trained in order to maximize the machine's benefits and prevent any workplace incidents. (For wrapping of any kind, proper training is also highly recommended to save money long-term; if an employee is over-using stretch wrap on each load, or using a thicker and more expensive wrap than is needed, over time these costs will add up!)
  • Do my products have special needs? Some products need added protection from one thing or another, and this needs to be put into consideration when wrapping. For example, certain electronics might benefit from anti-static wraps, and more expensive products may benefit from opaque wraps to better conceal their value. Consider everything before finalizing your stretch wrap purchase.
  • Do I need a stretch wrapping machine? You will need to evaluate your shipping volume, staff size, and product types in order to answer this question. There are all types of machinery you can purchase to help apply your stretch wrap thoroughly and efficiently. Certain large, bulky, and oddly shaped products will highly benefit from the uniform tension of machine-applied stretch wrapping.

It is not an easy nor risk-free decision to choose and purchase the right stretch wrap for your company. If you are still undecided, have additional questions, or are in conflict between a few options, don't hesitate to call Mr. Shrinkwrap today at 800-847-5290. At Mr. Shrinkwrap, we care about our customers and want you to use the very best solution for your company's individual needs!

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Tips For Removing Shrink Wrap From Your Boat

With boating season on the horizon, boat owners are looking to take off the shrink wrap from their boats and get themselves ready for some fun in the sun. But what you may not know is that even though shrink wrap is not bio-degradable, it is recyclable. If you are planning to recycle your shrink wrap, it becomes critical for you to remove the boat cover with caution. Our experts at Mr. Shrinkwrap would like to share a few key tips on removing shrink wrap from your boat.

1. Use the Right Tools

With the help of the right tool, you can efficiently and safely cut and trim the shrink wrap. Plastic can be cut with box cutters and scissors, but they lack control, safety, and convenience of use. Mr. Shrinkwrap Film Knives will give you the assurance to cut through multiple layers of the film without cutting or scraping the surface underneath the wrap or pushing through and slicing anything you'd rather leave alone. Our knives have rotatory and replaceable blades which last longer and add value to your investment.

2. Remove Vents and Zipper Doors

Before taking off the shrink wrap, it is important for you to remove vents and zipper doors. Zipper Access Doors are reusable, and while they should be fitted directly onto the wrap right away, the inner wrap does not need to be cut or perforated until there is an emergency need for entry.

3. Cut at the Right Spot

It's critical for boat owners to cut the cover correctly. When removing the shrink wrap from your boat, be sure to cut above the perimeter band. We recommend hiring a professional shrink wrapping service that can help you cut the shrink-wrapped boat cover.

4. Recycle Your Boat Cover

Shrink wrap is environmentally friendly and you can easily recycle it. Presuming the shrink wrap is of good quality and free of tape, packing labels, or anything else that would compromise the integrity of the plastic, it can be baled on your premises or collected up by a trash and recycling company to be aggregated and baled at a different site.

Click here to learn more about recycling your shrink wrap. And if you have any questions don't hesitate to give us a call at 800-847-5290.

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6 Early Spring Checkup Tips For Boat Owners

Hopefully your boat is stored away this winter, safely covered with a quality boat cover or shrink wrapped. As a boat owner, you want your boat to be in solid condition before the start of the boating season. Even when your boat is stored, there are steps you can take to be sure it's in good condition when its time to unwrap. We at Mr. Shrink Wrap are happy to share some mid-winter checkup tips for boat owners looking to keep their boat in tip top shape, even during the winter season.

1. Check for Water

If you notice water in your boat while it is stored be sure to first, use a sponge to absorb the pooled water and second, find where there water is getting in. Don't forget to check boat covers if they have holes that are allowing the water to enter inside. It's also a good idea to double check that the drain plugs are out as they should have been at winter layup.

2. Check Your Boat Cover

Boat covers will protect your boat from harsh weather conditions. Be sure to check your boat cover for holes and repair them with tape. Also look for any vents that may have come loose. A correctly fitted cover can safeguard your boat from debris, dust, and moisture. It also keeps unwanted rodents out of your boat so make sure there are no openings and that your cover is nice and tight.

3. Maintain Your Battery

Maintaining your batteries throughout the winter season is an important step towards getting your boating season started in the right direction. Fortunately, you have a few options. Remove your boat's batteries and keep them in storage. Connect them to a battery charger, which will give them a strong initial charge before switching to a float/trickle charge to maintain your batteries.

4. Check That All Sensitive Items Are Removed

Everything that is not a component of the boat should have already been removed and stowed, including fire extinguishers, life jackets, and flares. Check for any organic materials from the boat's interior, such as leather, to avoid fungus buildup. Check that all electronics have been removed, as they are prone to damage by intense weather.

5. Use Moisture Absorbent Bags

Moisture-absorbing desiccant bags weigh 196 grams are designed for use in boats. They can supply up to 90 days of protection from moisture when used as directed helping you avoid costly repairs to your boat due to unwanted moisture while it is stored. Desiccant Bags are easy to use - simply place in your boat with the number of packs dependent on boat size.

6. Secure Your Boat

For safety and insurance purposes, keeping your boat on your lawn, a shed, or a secure storage facility is the best option. Avoid keeping your boat under trees since falling branches might rip your cover. Installing a hitch lock can deter thieves away from your boat.

In a nutshell, it's critical to inspect your boat during the off-season to avoid water damage, rodents and theft. Mr. ShrinkWrap is proud to offer the best value boat wrapping covers that will protect your boat from extreme weather. We also specialize in shrink wrapping services for extra peace of mind. You can get in touch with us via our online form or simply call us at 800-847-5290.

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Tarps vs Shrink Wrap: Which one to Choose for a Boat Cover?

If you own a boat, you understand that it is a substantial investment that may offer you, your family, and your colleagues many years of enjoyment and a lifespan of wonderful memories.

If you have already made that investment, you are undoubtedly taking care to safeguard your boat when it is not in the water, in order to preserve its aesthetic value while also lowering the probability of future maintenance. After all, the average boat owner only keeps their boat for around 5 years before purchasing their new one, so taking care of your boat over that 5 year period may translate into huge cash, if you plan to sell the boat in the near future.

If you are trying to decide between Tarps and Shrink wrap, read our full in-depth guide to understanding which one to choose from.

Shrink Wrap vs Tarps: Durability

Shrink wrap is more durable! Tarps cannot compete with shrink wrap in terms of durability. Over time tarps will degrade and end up causing unnecessary mess to your boat by flaking apart and potential abrasion. Shrink wrap form conforms to whatever shape is being covered. Because the plastic is fastened and as tight as a drum, it does not get beaten up by elements like wind, rain, snow, and hail like a tarp does. The plastic stays in place and does not move like a slack tarp, which implies there is less risk of tearing, splits, and harshness to whatever it is covering because it is not fluttering against it.

It automatically saves time. When opposed to a tarp that floats around in the breeze or is destroyed by the weather, using shrink wrap will save time in needing to repair, reposition, or reapply.

Shrink Wrap vs Tarps: Preservation

When contrasted to a tarp, shrink wrap offers the best protection against the weather. There really is nothing better to use when it comes to defending what is underneath your cover from the weather than shrink wrap because of the way it is attached, and supported. Shrink wrap's security and weather-resistant powers cannot be equaled by a tarp, whether you are wanting to shield your boat from snowfall, your equipment from wind during transport, or the inside of your structure from rain.

Shrink wrap not only covers better than a tarp, but it also looks nicer. If you want to protect anything from the weather with a cover while still looking respectable, shrink wrap is the way to go.

Shrink Wrap vs Tarps: Recyclability

Shrink wrap is constructed of 100% raw resins and is non-biodegradable, however, it is easily recycled into a variety of items. So, if you would like to do your part to help the planet, shrink wrap is the ideal combination of weather protection and environmental consciousness. Check out our REACT Shrink Wrap for the most environment friendly shrink wrap option.

Unfortunately, tarps are not recyclable.

Shrink Wrap vs Tarps: Cost

Shrink wrap may be a very cost-effective substitute to a tarp for a variety of reasons. Because shrink wrap is so resilient (as previously mentioned) and easy to fix, it reduces the need to replenish it for both long and short-term remedies. This also means less time spent on upkeep and maintenance of your cover. Whether you are roofing a boat or a structure or building one, you are saving both time and money.

In a nutshell, Shrink wrap is an amazing cost-effective solution to protect your boat from wind, rain, and snow. On top of that, it is easily recyclable.

If you are looking for a boat cover for your boat, Mr. Shrink wrap is a great place to start. Get in touch with us via our online form or call us at 800-847-5290.