Below are the basics on installing vinyl graphics or lettering.
- Thoroughly clean surface with a good glass cleaner where graphic is to be placed.
- Position the graphic where you want to place it, BEFORE REMOVING THE BACKING PAPER.
- Mark the position you want with a wax marker (or something similar that can be easily removed).
- Slowly peel the backing off the graphic, making sure decal stays on the clear transfer tape. Do not let the graphic stick to itself!
- Slowly lower the graphic onto the surface where you had previously made your marks, making sure not to trap too many air bubbles (I usually work from the middle out).
- Use a squeegee to press all the air out from under the graphic. If air gets trapped under a large graphic, a sharp needle can be used to poke a few small holes and release the trapped air, while using the squeegee to slowly push the air out of the hole.
- Once the transfer tape is squeegeed down completely, it is ready to be removed.
- SLOWLY peel back the transfer tape, starting from a corner, making sure that the graphic stays on the surface. Peel transfer tape back SLOWLY and at a low angle, do not “lift” it! This will ensure that the graphic stays on the surface. If any of the decal starts to come up with the transfer tape, use a tweezers or the squeegee to “push” it back down onto the surface and continue to peel.
- After removing the entire transfer tape, use the ‘shiny’ side of the backing towards the graphic and then squeegee over the top of it to ensure the graphic is stuck down completely.
Helpful Hints
- Apply graphic when the surface and ambient temperature is above 60 degrees (making sure the surface is below 90 degrees as well). Although application can be done when cooler, the warmer temperature helps the adhesive to stick better. Above 90 degrees surface temperature will cause adverse effects to the adhesive as well.
- Use a good squeegee. Most auto parts stores carry them. we have heard of people using plastic rulers, credit cards, and even putty knife, but we do not recommend the use of anything other than a squeegee. when using a squeegee, make sure edge is smooth so as not to scratch or tear graphic. If you need help finding a squeegee, please let us know and we can get one for you.
- Large decals can also be installed by spraying the clean surface with a little glass cleaner prior to installing. this lets the graphic to be ‘moved’ (especially if there are any alignment issues) a small amount prior to using the squeegee to seal it to the application surface. Make sure that graphic is stuck down good prior to peeling the transfer tape off.
- Vinyl generally requires very little care. Remember that, when washing the application area after the graphic is installed, sponges and towels tend to pick up the vinyl (generally at the sharper points). If this occurs, use a hair dryer on low heat setting to heat the graphic up slightly and then press it back into place.
- If you need help with installation or have any questions, please email or call us and we will help out any way we can.