Application of Printed Vinyl Graphics to Textured Surfaces

Vinyl Storage Note:

Roll vinyl for inkjet printing should be stored in a clean area free of excessive moisture and direct sunlight. Stock rotation and climate-controlled storage are important. Age and temperature extremes can degrade the adhesive and can dramatically reduce its effectiveness. Product should be used within the recommended storage life of two years. In addition, product should be stored in an environment between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

All surfaces must be considered contaminated until properly cleaned. For proper application of printed vinyl graphics to textured surfaces use the following procedure:

1. Saturate a clean lint free cloth with Orange Peel* or Grafix Gone**. Wipe the surface to remove any contaminates. Pay special attention to areas with silicone, chalk or adhesive residue.
2. Using a dry lint free cloth, dry the surface before the solvent evaporates.
3. Spray the surface with isopropyl alcohol and immediately dry the surface with a clean dry lint free cloth to remove any residue left by the solvent.

• Surface prep note: Some textured surfaces can take longer to dry (especially in lower portions) due to capillary action. This can cause poor adhesion and can result in vinyl failure. You can speed the drying process using a heat gun.
• *- Orange Peel is specifically engineered for the sign industry. It is a non-toxic, biodegradable and environmentally safe adhesive remover that removes petroleum, rubber and water based adhesives. Orange Peel is available from your SignWarehouse supply consultant. Ask for item # FL-PEEL-1QT for a quart or
  # FL-PEEL-1GL for a gallon.
• **- Grafix Gone is a less aggressive, non-corrosive, pleasant smelling adhesive remover. It is a mild solvent-based product that will not “burn” most plastics including Styrofoam. Grafix Gone is available from your SignWarehouse supply consultant. Ask for item # FL-GGQ. Grafix Gone is sold in quarts only.

Tools needed:

For most graphic applications you will need the following tools. All tools listed are available from SignWarehouse.com by calling toll-free 1-800-899-5780 unless otherwise noted.

• Felt tipped squeegee – HT-4200-SA
• 1” rivet brush – HT-RBX1
• OLFA stainless steel cutter – HT-9181P800

Temperature:

Most vinyl products must be applied when the air and surface temperatures are between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Surfaces may be mechanically heated using a portable heater or heat gun.

Pre-application checklist:

1. Before you begin applying your graphics, insure that the application surface was properly cleaned following the previously outlined procedure.
2. Check that the air and application surface temperatures are within the range shown above.

Application checklist:

1. While applying use firm pressure with squeegee and rivet brush.
2. Always apply using overlapping strokes.
3. When removing application tape (masking) pull at a 180-degree angle.
4. Re-squeegee the entire graphic after removal of masking.