Almost 20 years back, when we started our vinyl graphics installation business in Ontario, Canada, we did numerous mistakes regardless of having extensive trainings. Now we are helping fellow vinyl installers to avoid those mistakes by some recommendations of avoiding common mistakes hence having a successful outcome. If you are not sure in your skills and patience than hire professional installers in the Greater Toronto Area, as we are, to have a desired installation results.
Anyhow, here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
Improper Squeegee Techniques
Improper squeegee techniques during vinyl installations can lead to a variety of issues that compromise the quality and durability of the final product.
- Insufficient pressure can result in air bubbles and poor adhesion of the vinyl to the surface so you need to apply firm, consistent pressure to ensure the vinyl adheres properly and air bubbles are expelled. From the other side by applying too much pressure can damage the vinyl or cause it to stretch and distort hence use a moderate, even pressure to avoid damaging the vinyl. The correct technique will be adopted overtime, when you start to dense the actual materials for different application types.
- Incorrect angle by holding the squeegee at too steep or too shallow. This can cause wrinkles, bubbles, or incomplete adhesion. Best way is to hold the squeegee at a 45-degree angle to the surface for optimal application.
- Improper technique by moving the squeegee in random directions or not following a systematic pattern can leave bubbles and wrinkles hence use a systematic approach, typically starting from the center and working outwards, to ensure smooth application.
- Using a hard-edged squeegee on sensitive vinyl, especially perforated films, can scratch or damage the material. Advice: use a felt-edged squeegee to protect the vinyl during installation.
- Use consistent speed while moving the squeegee, if you’re moving it too quickly than you can miss areas, while moving too slowly can cause the adhesive to set improperly. Maintain a consistent, moderate speed so graphics will adheres properly.
- Do not applying vinyl to a dirty or uneven surface can lead to poor adhesion and visual imperfections. Be sure that you thoroughly clean and prepare the surface before application.
- Proper handling of curves and contours required some time but by not adjusting of technique for them can result in bubbles and creases. Use a heat gun to soften the vinyl and carefully mold it to curves and contours, using appropriate squeegee techniques.
Relief Cuts
Those are strategic incisions made in the vinyl to help it conform to complex shapes, curves, or tight spaces without wrinkling or bubbling.
- Before making any cuts, examine the area to determine where tension and stress points will be. Identify curves, edges, and recessed areas that might need relief cuts a.k.a. place relief cuts in inconspicuous areas whenever possible to maintain a seamless appearance.
- Use a sharp utility knife or precision blade to make clean cuts so make small, controlled cuts. Please start with small incisions and expand if necessary to extend cuts towards the areas of tension but not so deep that they compromise the integrity of the vinyl. Cut at a slight angle to avoid creating sharp corners that could lead to tearing.
- After proper initial cuts that require training and come with experience use the relief cuts to allow the vinyl to stretch and conform to the shape. Gently pull and smooth the vinyl into place, ensuring that it lays flat without wrinkles. In some cases, overlapping sections of vinyl and then trimming the excess can create a seamless finish but be cautious to avoid gaps.
- Lastly, use a heat gun to gently warm the vinyl around the relief cuts to make the vinyl more pliable and helps it conform to the surface better and, as after application, use the heat gun again to post-heat the areas around the cuts. This helps set the adhesive and ensures strong, long-lasting adhesion.
Air Release Tools
Air release tools are designed to remove trapped air bubbles from under the vinyl without damaging it.
- Select a squeegee designed with air release channels or a felt edge to minimize the risk of scratching the vinyl and use firm, even strokes starting from the center of the vinyl and moving outwards towards the edges similar to the usage of squeegee during initial installation. This helps push air bubbles out to the sides.
- If there are still bubbles than use a fine-tipped needle, pin, or air release pen specifically designed for vinyl installations, identify the center of the air bubble and gently puncture the vinyl at the edge of the bubble, not directly in the center, to create a small exit point for the air. Use a squeegee thereafter to press the air out towards the puncture point and flatten the vinyl. You should apply light pressure to avoid tearing.
- If bubbles persist, use a heat gun to warm the vinyl slightly. This makes it more flexible and helps release trapped air and, after heating, use the squeegee again to smooth out the vinyl, directing the air towards the puncture points.
Take your time hence rushing can lead to mistakes and damage. Practice, patience, and attention to detail are key to successful vinyl installation! So continuously check your work after application and address any outstanding issues as needed. Too complicated vinyl installation to you? Contact us with your project details – we are always open to help!