VITAL FAQ

Discover one of the UK’s largest selections of hydro dipping films and patterns from carbon fibre and camouflage to designer prints, sticker bomb graphics, and custom artwork. Whatever your style or project, Vital Hydrographic has the perfect pattern to bring it to life.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Got questions? We’ve got answers for ya!

General Questions

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What is hydro dipping?

Hydro dipping (also known as water transfer printing or hydrographics) is a process where a printed film is transferred onto a part using water and activator. The pattern wraps around the shape of the item, creating a seamless finish before being protected with automotive grade lacquer.

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How durable are hydro dipped finishes?

When correctly prepared and lacquered, hydro dipped finishes are highly durable. We use automotive grade clear coats that resist:

Scratches
UV fading
Moisture
Everyday wear

Durability depends on usage exterior parts will experience more wear than interior or decorative components.

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What materials can be hydro dipped or painted?

We regularly work with:

Plastics
Metals
Carbon fibre
Fibreglass
Wood
3D printed parts (PLA, PETG, ABS, Nylon – subject to prep)

If you’re unsure, send photos and we’ll advise.

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Would you give a guy a foot massage?

I’m not saying I would’ve done it, but foot massages don’t mean anything. I give my mother a foot massage, and it’s not a big deal. Yeah, but would you give another man’s wife a foot massage? No, I guess not.

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Process & Preparation

Our standard process includes:

Inspection and assessment
Surface preparation (sanding, repair if required)
Priming and basecoat
Hydro dipping or painting
Rinsing and drying
Automotive-grade lacquer
Final inspection and curing

No shortcuts — every step matters.

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Do you repair parts before dipping or painting?

Minor repairs (scratches, small imperfections) can usually be handled during prep.

Structural damage must be discussed before work begins.

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Can you match colours or finishes?

Yes. We can colour match where possible and also replicate effects such as carbon fibre, camo patterns and bespoke finishes. Samples or reference images help achieve the best match.

Turnaround & Pricing

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How long does hydro dipping or painting take?

Typical turnaround is:

Small items: 5–10 working days
Larger or complex parts: 10–15 working days

Express turnaround may be available depending on workload.

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Do you offer express or priority turnaround?

Yes, we offer express turnaround for urgent projects where possible. Availability depends on workload and part size, and may incur a priority surcharge.

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How much does hydro dipping or painting cost?

Pricing varies depending on:

Part size
Material
Prep required
Finish type
Quantity

Send photos via WhatsApp or email for an accurate quote, pricing without seeing the part is rarely reliable.

Trade, Commercial & Batch Work

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Do you work with trade customers?

Yes. We work with:

Automotive businesses
Manufacturers
Designers
Retailers
POS and display companies

Trade pricing and repeat work discounts are available.

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Can you handle batch or repeat production work?

Absolutely. We regularly handle small to medium batch runs and repeat production work with consistent finishes.

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Can you work under NDA?

Yes. We are happy to work under Non-Disclosure Agreements for commercial, development or pre-release projects.

Logistics & Location

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Do I need to bring parts to you?

Parts can be:

Dropped off in person
Sent via courier
Collected by arrangement (commercial projects)

Return shipping can also be arranged.

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Do you offer on-site services?

Yes. We provide on-site painting, vinyl wrapping and POS installation services across the UK for commercial clients

Warranty & Aftercare

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Do you offer a warranty?

We operate a fair-use warranty policy. If a finish fails due to workmanship, we will assess and rework the item at our discretion.

All warranty claims require the item to be returned to us for inspection.

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What is not covered under warranty?

Impact damage
Stone chips
Abrasion
Chemical misuse
Normal wear and tear
Improper cleaning or installation

Exterior parts naturally experience more wear than interior components.

Suitability & Restrictions

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Do you work on firearm parts?

We only work on non-operational components such as stocks, grips or cosmetic parts where legal and appropriate. We do not work on functional or controlled components.