Please read instructions completely before starting your application.

These are basic guidelines for a vehicle graphics installation, however they can be used in most other vinyl applications.

Surface Preparation
The surface must be clean, and free of all oils, waxes and dirt. Use Windex or a comparable cleaner to clean the surface. On painted surfaces wipe with a wax remover or alcohol if applying on waxed paint.

Contents
Our vinyls come to you in 2 or 3 layers. The top layer is called the Transfer Tape or Pre-Mask (not always applied). It looks similar to masking tape. The middle layer is the actual Graphic Vinyl. The bottom layer is a Backing Paper.

Tools
You will need a Needle, a Razor Knife, a Removable Marking Pen (grease pencil works good) and a Hand Squeegee or similar tool. Also a Heat Gun or hair dryer is very helpful.

Installation
Give yourself plenty of time to do this installation; patience is the key here, do not attempt to do it in a "hurry-up" situation. It is best to apply vinyls in warm temperatures (55 degrees or above). The warmer it is, the better it works, but, try to avoid direct sunlight and extreme heat. If your vinyl was shipped to you rolled up, lay it out flat and let it relax for an hour or so. The vinyl will be easier to handle if installed flat.

Before you start to apply the graphics, hold the vinyl up to the location where it will be applied. Position ALL the graphics (especially if multiple panels) on the surface and use masking tape to temporarily tape them in place. Make sure all panels line up to each other and it is STRAIGHT. Note, the panels should have at least 2" of extra image/material on the top and bottom of each panel (known as a "Bleed"). This bleed allows for the installer to adjust the image up and down if needed. Also, try to keep all live or pertinent images, such as logos, phone numbers, etc. away from window frames, door handles, molding, mirrors, etc.

Once you have everything positioned properly, mark the vinyls and the surface so you know exactly where they belong. Un-tape the graphics from the location. SLOWLY peel backing paper off to expose a starting edge of the vinyl (a few inches of the TOP edge). Fold the backer over and crease it so it doesn’t flip back.

On most applications, you will want to start from the top and work your way down. Gravity definitely helps here. Line up the vinyl to the marks you made earlier. Lightly press the TOP edge of the exposed adhesive to the surface so it sticks to hold it in place. Double check your marks to be certain it is in the proper place. If it isn't exactly where you want it, you can gently pull the vinyl off to reposition it.

Now that you have the panel in the correct position, use your squeegee to smooth out the top edge. SLOWLY pull the backing paper away from the vinyl. As you are doing this, squeegee and smooth out the vinyl in a kind of back & forth motion across the vinyl. If you get a wrinkle or a bubble, gently pull the vinyl away from the surface and re-apply it. The transfer tape allows you to rub the vinyl without damaging it. Continue this process all the way down until you finish at the bottom.

Care For Vinyl Graphics
Complete instructions on preserving and caring for your vehicle graphics.

Removal
On painted surfaces, removal of vinyl is best done in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees. Simply pull it off at a 45 degree angle to the surface. In stubborn areas, vinyls can be removed from by using a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the vinyl to the point to where it peels off easily. On glass surfaces, a razor blade or scraper can also be used.

The Fine Print
The application of these vinyls requires a good degree of dexterity, and concentration. If you feel you cannot apply these vinyls yourself, our professional installers can apply them for you. Although our graphics are warranted, AdGraphics will NOT be responsible for replacement of vinyls that were not installed by certified installers. Warranty Information.