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DECAL
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS: For
optimum results, surface temperature should be between 50°F and
90°F. If necessary, move project to a location where the
temperature can be within these guidelines. Some
tools & supplies you will need: A squeegee, ruler, masking tape,
razor-knife or scissors, lint free cloth or paper towels, & a
surface cleaner (isopropyl alcohol is recommended).
Application fluid should may be used if using a wet application
- this is helpful when installing large graphics or installing
on irregular surfaces (see STEP 5). When removing
old decals, it may be helpful to use heat gun or hair dryer to
soften the glue before peeling off the graphics. Then use an
adhesive remover to clean the residue. Many of
these items can be found here:
Tools &
Accessories.
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STEP 1:
After determining the
location for your graphic, clean the surface with a lint free
cloth and cleaner solution. Be sure to turn the cloth several
times to insure thorough cleaning and wax removal. After doing
this you should get a "squeaky" sensation when lightly dragging
your fingers across the surface. |
STEP 2:
Using small strips of masking
tape, locate the graphic where it is to be installed. If the
graphic has a horizontal edge or reference point, you can use
this for measuring the location from a body line or trim
molding. If the decal has a flowing design, you'll have to step
back and visually inspect its location to determine if that is
where you want it.
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STEP 3:
Place strip of masking tape
vertically in the approximate center of the graphic. This is
known as the "hinge" method. This will allow you to install half
of your decal at a time. |
STEP 4:
Remove the masking tape strips from one end
of the decal and slowly peel the backing paper away, taking care
not to touch the adhesive side of the graphic. Use razor-knife
or scissors to remove the backing paper and discard.
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STEP 5: DRY APPLICATION
Slowly swing the exposed part of the decal on
to the surface, keeping only enough tension on it to avoid
wrinkles. As the decal meets the surface, squeegee from center
to ends using semi circular, overlapping motions to push the air
from underneath. Use moderate pressure to insure good adhesion.
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STEP 5: WET APPLICATION
Spray the surface where the backing paper has
been removed with application fluid. Do this on the vehicle
surface as well. Slowly swing the exposed part of the decal onto
the wet surface, keeping only enough tension on it to avoid
wrinkles. As the decal meets the surface, squeegee from center
to ends using semi circular, overlapping motions to push the air
from underneath. There is no need to use excessive pressure
because the fluid serves as a lubricant for the air to be pushed
outward.
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STEP 6:
Slowly remove the center
hinge and very carefully peel the remaining backing paper away.
Just as before, swing the decal over and squeegee it down using
the same motions described above. Re-squeegee the entire surface
of the graphic again to insure all areas have adhered. |
STEP 7:
Remove the application tape
by pulling it back at a 180° angle. Make sure to watch the decal
to make sure it's not lifting from the surface. If the graphic
seems to be lifting, gently push the application tape back in
the opposite direction that you were removing it and re-squeegee
that area.
NOTE: If too much application fluid is used, or surface
temperature is cold, you may have to wait for several minutes to
allow drying time before removing the application tape.
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STEP 8:
Once the decal is installed
and the application tape removed, carefully inspect the area for
bubbles. In the case of very small air bubbles, usually they
will pass through the vinyl within a couple weeks. Larger
bubbles may need to be removed, puncturing them with a pin or
needle at the edge and softly pushing the air out towards the
puncture.
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