How to Best Install Interior Vinyl Wall Decals
Custom printed vinyl wall decals are a great way to add personality and style to any room. But if you’ve never installed one before, the process can seem a bit daunting. We have a wide variety of low to high tack adhesive vinyls and brick vinyl wraps for all wall surfaces that can be semi-permanent for frequent changes or more permanent solutions that can last up to 10 years. The steps to apply each vinyl are a bit different, but there are a few universal tips and tricks.
To help you with the process of preparing, we’ve put together a list of do’s and don’ts for installing adhesive vinyl wall decals.
DON’T:
Clean Walls with Harsh Cleaners
Make sure the surface you’re applying the vinyl to is clean by wiping down walls with a damp lint free cloth. Any dirt, dust, or grease will make it harder for the adhesive to stick. Avoid using any harsh solvent cleaners such as Windex® or chemicals when cleaning the surface as any residue can negatively affect the adhesive.
DO:
Paint Surfaces with Water Based Semi-gloss Latex Paint
Wall paint is one of the most important factors when installing vinyl wall murals. In order to get the best results, we recommend priming then using a semi-gloss latex-based paint. Wall paint that has a matte, flat or eggshell finish have a rough dusty finish, which can make it difficult for the vinyl to stick and can cause failure. Also make sure the wall is in good condition, don’t paint over peeling or cracking paint.
Prior to ordering vinyl, please include photos and/or a description of the wall surface texture and how it has been painted. This allows us to determine the best vinyl material for your wall.
If you’re unsure about how vinyl will adhere to your painted surface contact us and we can make recommendations or send you a vinyl adhesion test kit.
DON’T:
Think Blemishes Will be Hidden by Vinyl
Any surface blemishes such as cracks, holes, or dents could be visible beneath even the thickest the vinyl, so make sure the surface is as smooth as possible before installation. This will help create a smooth surface for the adhesive to stick to and prevent air pockets from forming beneath the decal.
DO:
Measure Twice and Trim
Walls are rarely ever perfectly square, so don’t assume they are. If covering an entire wall floor to ceiling measure at multiple points across the width and height of the wall. Order vinyl wall murals at the largest dimension, adding at least a half inch. It’s always better to err on the side of too big rather than too small. That way, you have some wiggle room and can trim away any excess after installation for a perfect fit.
DON’T:
Rush to Install After Painting
Wait for any paint to dry. This seems like a no-brainer, but if you’re applying the vinyl to a freshly painted surface, wait at least 2 weeks for the paint to fully cure before applying the vinyl. During the 2 week minimum dry time gases are releasing from the paint. If not give enough time is allowed for the paint to off-gas it can cause bubbles to be trapped beneath the vinyl.
DON’T:
Install in Too Hot or Cold Temperatures
If a wall surface is too hot, the adhesive could become too soft and may not stick as well. If it’s too cold, the adhesive will be brittle. We recommend a minimum room temperature of at least 65º F. Close any air vents blowing on the wall before installing. If the vinyl has been stored in extreme heat or cold allow the vinyl to adjust to the ideal room temperature of at least 65º F before installing.
DO:
Dry Fit Panels
If your vinyl graphic is large or has multiple panels, it’s a good idea to tape each section on the wall before applying. Once you’ve dry fit all the panels, take a step back and look at the overall design. Make any necessary adjustments before peeling off the backing paper exposing the adhesive.
DO:
Install With a Squeegee
The best way to apply vinyl to interior smooth surface walls is with a hard, felt covered plastic squeegee. This will help avoid bubbles or wrinkles in the vinyl by applying smooth even pressure. We always include a felt wrapped squeegee with any vinyl order. Applying vinyl with your hands seems like an easy way to go, but hands introduce dirt and grease and don’t apply pressure as evenly.
Tips for Applying Vinyl to Texture Brick or Exterior Walls
In addition to the do’s and don’ts above, special considerations are needed when installing on texture brick, stucco, concrete or tile exterior walls. Vinyl for textured surfaces is typically applied using heat and a rubber roller to mold the graphic to the contours of the wall.
DO:
Get the Right Vinyl for the Wall Texture
Different vinyls are suited to adhering to textured brick walls, tile or smooth concrete. For textured walls the amount of relief is also important in determining the right vinyl media. When requesting a quote, please include photos and/or a description of the wall surface texture and if or how it has been painted. This allows us to determine the best vinyl material for your project for successful adhesion.
If you’re unsure which vinyl material to use for your project, please reach out to our team and we’d be happy to help or send you a vinyl adhesion test kit.
DON’T:
Install on a Wet Surface after Cleaning
Use a wire or stiff dry brush to remove any loose paint or debris. If the wall is very textured, you may need to use a power washer to deep clean the surface. Don’t use harsh cleaners or degreasing chemicals. If power washing, allow at least 48 hours of dry time before installing. Vinyl will not adhere properly to a wet surface or one with cleaning residue and could cause bubbles or wrinkles. If not enough time has been allowed for drying moisture could continue to seep out of the surface causing failure or shortening the life of the wall decal.
DO:
Check the Weather
If installing outdoors, make sure to check the weather forecast. Most exterior vinyl wall murals can be installed in when surface temperatures are at least 45º F and less than 200º F. You’ll want to avoid any chance of rain 48 hours prior to installation. Vinyl applied on too wet, hot, or cold walls can cause failure.
DON’T:
Power Wash Vinyl Decals
The pressure of the power washer spray on the graphic could do more than clean it, the force could rip the vinyl and peel it right off the wall. Instead spot clean using mild soap and water. Harsh cleaners or solvents such as Windex® can damage the vinyl or remove the inks.
Installing vinyl wall graphics may seem daunting, but with a few simple steps, it can be frustration-free. Make sure the wall is prepped and painted with semi-gloss paint that will allow the vinyl to stick, dry fit the panels before applying. Use a squeegee to smooth out the vinyl, and trim excess for a perfect fit. If installing outdoors, check the weather and make sure clear sky’s and moderate temperatures are in the forecast. As always if you are covering a large or a hard to reach space, 40 VISUALS offers professional installation services. With a little preparation and care, your vinyl wall graphics will stay looking great for years to come!
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If you're not feeling confident about installing your vinyl wall graphics on your own, 40 VISUALS offers professional installation services. Our team of installers are experienced in installing vinyl on a variety of surfaces, both interior and exterior. For a quote or more information on our installation services, please contact us.
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That’s it! By following these do’s and don’ts you’ll be on your way to successfully installing adhesive vinyl graphics on walls. If you have questions or need help, our team is always here to assist you.
That’s it! By following these do’s and don’ts you’ll be on your way to successfully installing adhesive vinyl graphics on walls. If you have questions or need help, our team is always here to assist you.
