Install Tips

A good install starts before the decal ever touches the surface.

Take a few minutes to prepare properly and work slowly. Most fitting problems come from dust, moisture, cold surfaces or removing the backing too quickly.

Before You Start

You will need:

• A clean, dry surface
• A squeegee, bank card or similar flat-edged tool
• Masking tape if you want help with alignment
• A little patience — especially with detailed designs

Do not apply to a wet, dusty or greasy surface.

Your Decal Has 3 Layers

1. Transfer tape — the clear or paper top layer.
2. Vinyl decal — the actual design in the middle.
3. Backing paper — the bottom layer that protects the adhesive.

How to Apply Your Vinyl Decal

1. Clean the surface.
   Remove dust, grease and residue, then allow the area to dry completely. A mild cleaner or suitable alcohol-based surface cleaner can help. Avoid leaving any cleaner residue behind.
2. Press the decal onto the transfer tape.
   Before peeling anything, firmly rub over the design with a squeegee or card. Pay particular attention to small letters, fine details and sharp corners.
3. Peel away the backing paper slowly.
   Turn the decal face-down where possible and peel the backing away from the vinyl at a low angle. If part of the design stays on the backing, stop, lay it back down and rub that area again.
4. Position and apply.
   Once aligned, press the decal onto the surface from one side across, using steady pressure to reduce trapped air.
5. Press firmly.
   Rub over the full design again, especially around edges and detailed areas.
6. Remove the transfer tape.
   Peel it back slowly at a sharp, low angle rather than pulling it straight away from the surface. If the vinyl lifts, stop and press that section down again.

Extra Tips for Matte Vinyl

• Matte vinyl can hold more firmly to its backing, so extra rubbing before peeling can make application much easier.
• Use steady, even pressure rather than rushing the peel.
• Application is easiest in mild or warm conditions. Very cold vinyl and cold bodywork can make fitting more difficult.

If the decal has been stored somewhere cold, allow it and the fitting surface to come back to a sensible temperature before installation.

Aftercare

• Avoid washing the fitted area for at least 24 hours.
• For vehicles, allow around 48 hours before pressure washing.
• When pressure washing, avoid holding the jet directly against decal edges.

Need Help?

If something does not look right before you fit it, stop before applying it and contact us. It is much easier to help before the backing has been removed.

Email customdecalscork@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to help.