How to Shrink Wrap Large Objects

The process of how to shrink wrap something large like a boat, equipment, pallets, vehicles, or construction projeccts is something that many construction personnel can learn with the right equipment and the right training. We sell high quality industrial quality shrink wrap, the best accessories and tools you need to install it and can help guide you to get the right items for your project. Below is how we recommend containing something large and make it a strong, long lasting containment:

1) Walk around the object you are going to cover to look for problem areas. It’s much better to do it now rather than when you are actually have the rolls unwrapped. Determine what sharp areas may need to be padded off to keep the heat shrink wrap from tearing or areas that need extra protection (electrical panels, hoses, any delicate surfaces). Also decide how you will wrap the object, either partial wrap using hard attachment (tape, strapping, nailed wood strips) or wrapping 100%.

2) Pad the areas you previously discovered and measure the object to see what size shrink wrap you will need to use. If you need foam padding that can be used for this we also sell it.

3) If partial wrapping the object, bring the heat shrink wrap over the top of the object (try not to let roll of material drag/roll on the floor to keep free of dirt and possible tears) making sure you have enough material to cover over both ends of the object.

4) Start attaching material to the object by way of tape, nailing on wood strips or wrapping around strapping and heat seaming. If using tape (most common), start on one side and attach, working your way all the way around. On any corners or odd angled areas, form pleats (as you would when wrapping a present) and use heavy duty spray adhesive or a small amount of tape to “tack” the pleats down until time to heat seam those areas with the heat tool.

5) Depending on what is being shrink wrapped, you may need to use poly woven strapping around the base for added security. If using strapping as your base attachment, simply wrap the strapping around the object and tighten making sure about 6-8 inches of material hangs below the strapping. Take the material and fold up over the strapping and “tack” to the material above using spray adhesive. Using the heat gun tool, heat seam the tacked area to secure.

6) If doing a 100% wrap of the object, measure and cut the length of shrink wrap material needed to go completely around the object. Lay material, semi-unfolded; down in a clean dry area. Place object in the center of the shrink wrap material and continue by bringing up the sides and “tacking” the ends together using spray adhesive or heat shrink tape. Continue as you were wrapping a present, using the above mentioned pleating technique.

7) Using your propane fired heat tool, at the base of the object start heat shrinking the material, making sure you keep the heat tool moving in a slow “sweeping” motion. Move upward shrinking the material, saving the top for last. Try not to stay in one section for too long. It’s better to keep moving along with the heat tool even if the material hasn’t shrunk completely. You can always go back over it later to finish shrinking.

8) Once the object is completely shrunk, go over the entire unit and check for any holes or thin spots (darkened areas) and tape them off. After it is completely shrink wrapped, also tape off all seams and pleats for extra security. If you are going to add shrink wrap zippers, hatches, or a door for people to pass through the containment, now is the time you would do that as they do not shrink and heat should not be applied to them either.