FAQ

IS IT HARD TO SHRINKWRAP?
No, it isn’t difficult to shrinkwrap. You must evaluate the weather if you will be shrinkwrapping outside. Clear days with light winds make the covering process go much quicker and you will end up with a much more durable cover. Shrinkwrapping is a series of logical steps mixed with common sense.

WHAT ABOUT MOISTURE UNDER THE COVER?
Every shrinkwrap cover must be ventilated to eliminate moisture and condensation under the cover. Our DS-683 self-adhesive vent allows cross flow ventilation throughout the cover minimizing chances of excess moisture and mildew. The number of vents will vary according what you are covering, but a minimum would be 3 vents for runabouts and up to 8+ vents for boats 34 foot and above. Cabins and seat cushions should also be left open to help stimulate ventilation.

SUPPORT STRUCTURES?
Support structures are very important under shrinkwrap storage covers. Construction of a woven cord strapping and wooden upright support system is a simple, yet effective support system—giving the cover enough slope and strength so that snow and rain will run off.

CAN THE HEAT TOOL CAUSE DAMAGE?
Always remember Safety First!! Heat is swept over the cover, almost like spray painting, and is never left on one spot long enough to damage vinyl graphics, paint, gelcoat, wood, etc. In fact, the shrinkwrap will become thin and holes will form before enough heat is transferred to damage what is being covered. If the shrinkwrap should get a burn hole, and it appears the wrap is stuck to the product, just leave the wrap cool and it will come loose by itself.

HOW DO I REPAIR TEAR OR BURN HOLES IN THE COVER?
First, holes are not rare in shrinkwrap covers. It is very easy to puncture the material before it is shrunk, conversely, it is easy to repair holes. If it is a small hole a piece of heat shrink tape will fix it quickly. If it is a larger hole, a scrap of shrinkwrap approximately 2” larger than the hole may be taped on the original cover and lightly shrunk.

IS THERE A WAY I CAN GET INTO THE COVER DURING THE STORAGE SEASON?
Yes! we offer both a 30”X36” and 30”X48” zipper access door. These are installed, by taping them onto the shrinkwrap, after the cover is completely shrunk.

WHAT OTHER HARDWARE DO I NEED TO SHRINKWRAP BESIDES A HEAT TOOL?
Our shrinkwrapping program is very simple, but you will need a DS-15 Tensioning Tool, DS-007 Film Cutting Knife, DS-009 Long Cuff Safety Gloves, and DS-010 Safety Glasses along with a DS-789 Heat Tool. Equipment the installer needs to provide include ladders to fit the job, 20lb. propane tank, hand saw, jack knife, Arrow T-50 Stapler, and a 25’ tape measure. Of course, you will need shrinkwrap to fit the job, strapping, buckles, tape and vents.

WHAT DO I DO WITH MY SHRINKWRAP AFTER I REMOVE IT?
We have a unique recycling program call the REBAG® System. Each REBAG® holds approximately 600 sq. ft. of shrinkwrap and comes with a closure device and a prepaid UPS Authorized Return System label. Our system works throughout the United States and Canada.

HOW DO I MEASURE AND FIND THE RIGHT SIZE SHRINKWRAP FOR MY PRODUCTS
This is very easy to do. Measure from the center of your product, at the highest point, over the side and down at least 8” below where you with the cover to go (for example, on a powerboat with arch measure from the center of the arch down below the rubrail). Now double that figure and add on 1’ for the shrinkwrap which will be tucked under the perimeter band.

CAN I GET TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE?
Yes, Zap Enterprisesmay be contacted at 585.259.5614, from 8:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Monday through Saturday, when you have questions or comments about shrinkwrapping. We can guide you through the basics of wrapping or help with that “special” job.

IF I AM TRANSPORTING A PRODUCT SHOULD I ATTACH IT DIFFERENTLY?
Definitely. Transportation covers need no support structure, just a couple of straps running fore and aft under the shrinkwrap to give it support as it travels down the road. Also, a very good way of holding the shrinkwrap to the product is by taping it on using our Preservation Tape. This tape leaves no adhesive residue and keeps wind from blowing under the cover which may cause chafing or loss of the shrinkwrap.

WHAT COLOR SHRINKWRAP SHOULD I USE? IS THERE A DIFFERENCE?
Shrinkwrap comes in blue, white & clear. If you live in a northern climate blue wrap absorbs heat and allows snow and ice to fall from the cover. For southern climates white reflects heat and keeps covered boats cooler. Clear shrinkwrap should only be used on boats during the winter months. It absorbs a lot of heat which can damage boat interiors. If you use clear wrap always over ventilate. Also, if you are showing boats or working on them white should be the color of choice. It provides an excellent shadow free lighting and perfect color rendition.