PREPARING THE SURFACE

Before applying your decal thoroughly clean the surface, removing all dirt, wax & oils. If the surface is not properly cleaned the decal will not stick very well. The life of the decal is dependent on a properly cleaned surface. Denatured alcohol or rubbing alcohol both work well to clean most surfaces. Standard glass cleaners can also be used for glass surfaces. DO NOT use glass cleaner to do a wet application. The ammonia in the cleaner will break down the adhesive and shorten the life of the decal. If the temperature is below 40 degrees, it is recommended to warm the surface before applying decal.

DRY APPLICATION

With the transfer tape facing up, slowly peel it up from the backing sheet. The vinyl should be attached to the transfer tape as you lift it up. Do this slowly as there are very small vinyl pieces that you want to make sure come up with the transfer tape. (If one sticks to the backing sheet, use a firm object such as a fingernail to rub the transfer tape where the vinyl is stuck. This should get the vinyl to attach to the transfer tape and lift off the backing sheet) Once the transfer tape with the vinyl attached is removed from the backing sheet, CAREFULLY position where you want the decal. making sure you DO NOT come in contact with the surface. When you have it where you want it, tack one edge in position and fold the decal onto the surface in a rolling motion. Remember there is no second chance. Once the decal has made contact with the surface you will not be able to reposition it. The transfer tape will keep the decal together, and aligned with itself. Once the entire decal has contacted the surface, with the transfer tape still attached, rub the decal onto the surface with a plastic applicator, your fingers or a credit card to remove any bubbles and to insure good adhesion over the entire decal. The transfer tape allows you to firmly rub the decal without damaging the vinyl. Take as much time as you need to rub it down. The more time you take the less chance of bubbles.

When the decal has been completely applied to the surface, gently peel away the transfer tape. The decal will adhere to the surface much more aggressively than the transfer tape and the tape should peel away freely leaving no residue.

If there are bubbles present under the decal that cannot be removed by working them to the edge of the decal, a small pin or needle can be used to puncture the bubble and remove the air. A small pin hole will not be seen after the air bubble has been worked out.

WET APPLICATION

With the wet application you will need to find an empty spray bottle to mix up a soap solution. Fill the spray bottle with warm water and add 3 or 4 drops of dishwashing detergent. Don't put more than this because if there is too much soap, the decal will have a hard time sticking to the intended surface. Again I will say DO NOT use glass cleaner as an application fluid as the ammonia in it will attack the adhesive on the vinyl. Clean the surface and remove the transfer tape and vinyl as explained in the previous section. Using the soap solution, soak the area where you intend to put the decal. Place the decal on the surface. The soap solution will let you move the decal a little allowing you to position the decal correctly. Once you have it in the correct position, hold one side of the transfer tape with your hand then squeegee out the water from behind the decal. Do this slowly because until the water is gone, the decal will move on you and can get mis-positioned or wrinkled. Make sure all the water is gone before trying to take the transfer tape off. Remove the tape in a 90 degree angle from the vinyl. Don't lift up on the tape. If the vinyl starts coming up from the surface, your solution may have been too soapy and it will take longer form the vinyl to adhere to the surface. The important thing with either method is to take you time.

The application of vinyl decals is not terribly difficult but it is best to work carefully and slowly. Don't try to rush the process or you could mess it up and ruin your decal. Once applied the decals cannot be repositioned, so take your time.

DO NOT hit decal directly with a pressure washer or an ice scraper to assure a long life of your decal.

I cannot be responsible for replacing decals that have been damaged during application

If you need further help please contact me at sue@sdbuckdecals.com.

Thank you, SD Buck Decals.