Yes, you read that right – Shrink-Wrapping is a great way to satisfy your most sensitive Winter storage needs. And its utility is not limited to the kinds of household items that most people think of when they hear the term “Shrink-Wrap”, either. No, in fact there are an almost unlimited number of items that may be prospective Shrink-Wrap targets, from basic lawn furniture to boats, up to entire structures.

What Is Shrink–Wrapping, Anyway?

It’s simple: Shrink-Wrapping is the act of covering or encasing the target item with polymer film, applying heat to the surface of the film covering the item, thereby shrinking the film tightly around the item. This provides continued seamless protection to the item, from both dirt contamination and (depending on the selected polymer film) overexposure to UV light.

While some Shrink-Wrapping applications can deliver air- and water-tight protection, residential practices are usually not as demanding or nearly as budget-busting. In fact, Shrink-Wrapping’s burgeoning popularity in the residential market has made it an available and economical option for all, from a budget point of view. This article focuses on Shrink Wrapping household items before storage, but Shrink Wrap is also a very common packaging material for a wide array of products from food to cosmetics to cleaning materials. It is even gaining popularity as a packing tool when relocating.

What Things Can I Shrink–Wrap?

The better question may be “what can’t I Shrink-Wrap?”, because the list of candidates is almost endless. Basically, if you can cover it in polymer/plastic film, you can Shrink Wrap that item. For this article, we will leave the commercial and industrial uses of Shrink-Wrapping for another day and concentrate on the many realistic uses that a homeowner might have.

• Statuary and Architectural Features: the things that add character to our homes deserve protection, especially in the off-season.

Beyond protection from nature, Shrink-Wrapping delivers protection from prying eyes, too.

Tell Me More About The Shrink-Wrap Process

When you’ve picked out the items to be protected, and selected your Shrink-Wrapping service provider, there are four simple steps to completing the Shrink-Wrap process:

Clean the Target Depending on the pre-storage condition of the item, adequate cleaning might be simply blowing off any dust – or in some cases could require pressure/power washing and pre-wrap conditioning.

Wrap the Target The level of protection needed, and the substance/material of the target item itself, will dictate the polymer film options that can be used. Heat guns or tunnels apply the shrinking power.

Store the Target Once cleaned and Shrink-Wrapped the item is removed to the property’s storage area or shed until put back in service.

Forget the Target Once in storage you don’t need to devote another thought to that item – until next season when you return it to service.

Can I DIY The Shrink-Wrapping?

The simple answer is, “Yes, you can absolutely DIY the Shrink-Wrapping process.” Given the steps we’ve outlined in this article you can see that the process is a short series of simple steps. Any able-bodied individual with a modest level of intelligence can handle the Shrink-Wrapping process without a hitch.

Should I DIY The Shrink-Wrapping?

Ah, now we’re onto the right question. And the answer depends on your own personal situation, with its array of competing and insistent demands on your time. Let’s take a God’s-eye view of the situation and see where we’re at.

The first requirement is to acquire the appropriate polymer film and, for the beginner, the appropriate heat gun. (You’ll also want to test the process before risking your valuables.)

Next is to gather your cleaning supplies for the pre-Shrink cleaning along with choosing a spot to perform the actual cleaning – perhaps on a patio, walkway, or driveway.

Then it’s time to roll up your sleeves, glove up, and get to work. The effort is not especially intensive but does require a basic level of strength and fitness to do the job properly.

When dry, the next step is to cover the item with plastic film and the apply the right amount of heat to shrink the film without damaging the underlying item.

Finally, move the wrapped item to its storage location. That could be a garage or shed if storage is onsite, or it could require transfer to an offsite storage facility.

Okay, there’s the easy answer – the job is simple, does not require any specialized skill or strength, but it does require multiple steps and a modest investment in equipment. And that’s the reason Shrink-Wrap services have become so popular in many Monmouth County, NJ communities.

How Do I Engage A Shrink-Wrapper?

Okay, I’m convinced – while the job itself is not particularly intimidating, I see that I personally will find many, more satisfying uses for my time than cleaning and wrapping personal items. In that case, I recommend that you join forces with an established and reputable provider of Shrink-Wrap services, like All Clean Exteriors in Monmouth County, NJ.

The selection criteria that I recommend rely primarily on the provider’s reputation and references – and that’s not only because our reputation and references are outstanding! No, it is because those two factors are the most reliable predictors of success for your project. There are, unfortunately, many unsavory characters claiming to provide budget home maintenance services. They’ll be only too happy to underbid your job just to win the engagement – perhaps only to disappear with your deposit.

Key Provider Selection Guidance

Solicit at least three proposals for your needs from three different providers.

Get at least three verifiable references – and verify by phone.

Be sure that All Clean Exteriors is one of your alternative providers.

We are the Monmouth County leaders, and you can call us today at (732) 570-4923 to get a fast, reliable estimate and timetable for your job.