Don't forget these 5 things for the perfect vinyl installation

Applying self-adhesive films can often be challenging. There is a lot you need to know about the film, the adhesive, etc. and the last thing you want is a failed graphic. Thankfully, if you follow the core principles, you should be covered for most types of applications. Here are our top tips to help you.

1. Temperature

Remember to always refer to the recommendations from the materials manufacturer for the correct installation temperature. This can typically be found on the corresponding installation guide or datasheet. Most products will require “room temperature” for application – typically in the region of 20-25°C – but some products can be applied as low as 5°C or even 0?°C!

2. Cleaning

To ensure a good adhesive bond, any surface you apply to must be clean and free of dust, dirt, surface treatments and other contaminates. A specialist surface cleaner should be used in all cases, even if the application is short-term. Newly painted surfaces should be left to cure for the appropriate period of time (as determined by the paint manufacturer) before graphics are applied. Attention should also be paid to the type of paint, as oil-based, water-based and solvent-based paint will have different considerations.

Surfaces prone to out-gassing may produce bubbles under the vinyl which could lead to a total failure of the adhesive bond. These surfaces include glass fibre (uncoated), some polycarbonates and acrylics, as well as some surfaces treated with silicone, wax, sealants or varnish. As such, it is essential to clean your surface thoroughly with the cleaner recommended by the vinyl manufacturer.

3. Beware of plasticiser migration

Take care when applying vinyl to other vinyl surfaces, including flexible truck sides, banners and flexible sign-faces. These substrates contain plasticisers, which can migrate into the applied self-adhesive film and break down the adhesive system. Shrinkage and/or delamination of the film from the substrate and/or “stringing” of the adhesive are indicators that plasticiser migration could be occurring. Note: once plasticiser migration has taken place, nothing can be done to reverse or even stop this condition.

To avoid plasticiser migration, it is essential to select the correct vinyl for application to heavily plasticised substrates. There is a range of suitable materials for these applications such as Oracal 451, Oracal 3451 and Avery Dennison SignFlex – and if in doubt, you can always ask us.

It is also important to ensure that when a self-adhesive vinyl is laid on top of another self-adhesive vinyl (for instance, in the case of multi-layered signage, or in the event of a temporary graphic being placed on top of a base, fixed graphic), the two products should have compatible chemistry. Otherwise, this can cause plasticiser migration resulting in shrinkage and/or delamination and a breakdown of the adhesive system.

4. Special surfaces and environmental conditions

Seek specific advice from Spandex when applying to difficult surfaces or within extreme environmental conditions, to ensure you select the correct material. We are able to provide detailed specification sheets and advice for most products. If in doubt, ask for a material sample for test purposes.

5. Choose the correct application method

There are two recognised methods for applying self-adhesive vinyl: wet and dry. The method chosen will be determined by the size and complexity of the graphic being applied.

a) Dry application: This method can be used for small to medium-sized graphics and is the only recommended method for films with air egress technology (which allows for bubble-free application and more repositionability).? Dry application will often be used in cold weather conditions (such as outdoor application in winter).

This method is recommended for:

Small to medium-sized graphics ??

Films with air egress technology such as EasyApply, PerfectApply, Comply, etc ??

Cold weather conditions ??

b) Wet application: The wet application method is preferred for large graphic installations, as it helps reposition the vinyl during application. This is a considerable advantage when applying multi-colour logos or other applications requiring precise alignment. Wet application is also beneficial when applying vinyl to glass. Under dry application conditions, the adhesive will often develop a fast bond with the glass, thereby making it harder to reposition.

This method is recommended for:

Large graphics ??

Applications on glass ??

We hope these tips will help you achieve a trouble-free vinyl application with a professional finish. For more information on vinyl application techniques and the different tools that can help you with graphic installation, please chat to us.