Vinyl decals are very handy for businesses because they are versatile and help the company elevate its brand and promote its products and services in myriad ways. While getting the design of the decal right calls for a certain degree of expertise, you also need to be able to apply the decals on the store window or the vehicle correctly to get the best out of them. Even though the process looks simple, it is easy to muff it up and end up with a result that looks unprofessional. Some pro tips on applying decals correctly:
Ensure That the Surface Is Flat and Smooth
Advertising decals only stick well on flat and smooth surfaces as they permit the adhesive to bond well. Before you start the application process, you must ensure that the surface is large enough to accommodate the sticker and smooth. It is the reason why self-adhesive decals are commonly fixed on glass windows, vehicle bodies, and even on walls with a smooth finish. When you fix the decal on a rough surface like distressed wood or brick wall, there will be gaps between the two surfaces, leading to the formation of air bubbles that not only look unsightly but also cause the decal to peel off prematurely.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Vinyl is sensitive to extremes of temperatures. When exposed to the cold, it tends to contract while heat makes it expand. It is for this reason that you must never apply vinyl decals when it is too warm or cold. Applying decals when the temperature is too high or low means that the adhesive will not stick properly and when the temperature normalizes, it will lose its sticky power. Ideally, you should try to apply decals when the temperature of the surface is between 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Clean and Dry the Surface Properly
To permit the decal to stick well, you must ensure that the surface is devoid of dust, dirt, and grease. You must first dust the surface and then clean it with a solution made with a few drops of detergent in water. Apply the solution and wipe with a lint-free cloth and let it dry properly before applying the decal. You may need to wash a few times before the surface is completely clean. Instead of a soapy solution, you can also use rubbing alcohol to wipe down the area with a clean and lint-free cloth.
Fix Carefully
Position the decal on the surface and spray soapy water onto the surface. Peel one side of the decal and gently peel off the backing and fix it on the surface. The soapy water will allow you to reposition the sticker till you achieve what you want. Now, you can remove the air bubbles and the excess moisture using a squeegee. Let the decal dry completely for the bond to archive maximum strength. According to The Katy News, when properly applied, decals last for many years.
Conclusion
Self-adhesive advertising decals are versatile and affordable for even the smallest of businesses. Using them, they can transform their shop windows and vehicles into advertising powerhouses.
