By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 03, 2022

If you have these decals on your store windows, you probably need to know how to clean perforated window decals. Most people don’t consider how they’ll clean their vinyl before choosing which type of decal they want. Perforated window decals are a bit more difficult to clean than regular ones. It’s not impossible to keep them looking fresh, though. We’ll take you through why they’re more difficult to clean, and how you can maintain the cleanliness of your perforated window decals. What this article covers:

Perforated Decals
What Tools Do I Need?
Should I Use Chemicals to Clean Them?
My Window Decal Is Ruined – Where Can I Get a New One?

Perforated Decals

Perforated window decals are quite nifty. They allow you to display an image on the outside of your store or venue while ensuring that the people inside can see outside. They’re a great traditional advertising technique. They’re made using UV ink on perforated vinyl material. This means that the vinyl material has lots of small holes in it, which allows for that one-way vision. These are commonly used on gym windows and doors. It gives the members who are exercising inside adequate privacy. This is beneficial for the business because its subscribers are happy. It’s also sometimes used at gas station stores as a sun-screen on large windows. This protects the employees and customers inside from the harsh daytime sun. So there are many benefits of perforated window decals. One of the cons, however, is that they can be quite difficult to clean. If you’ve used polyurethane or polycrilic on your vinyl decal to seal it, it can be a bit easier since the dirt isn’t able to settle in place as firmly. If they’re not maintained well, they won’t last as long. This is especially true if they’re displayed in the baking sun. You’ll also need to make sure you know how to store your window decal. So how can you keep them clean? We’ve put together a guide below.

What Tools Do I Need?

Perforated window decals are complicated to clean because they contain perforations with a diameter of around 1.5mm. Dirt accumulates in these holes. This spoils the purpose of the holes, which is to be able to see through them from the inside. Cleaning each hole individually can be painful. To avoid having to do this, most people apply an overlaminate on top of their decal. This creates a solid barrier over your perforated window decal which is much easier to clean. Not everyone can afford an overlaminate, and some people just haven’t gotten around to applying one yet. If this is the case for you, here’s what you’ll need to clean your decal. If your decal is fairly large, using a hose will be the easiest to clean it. If your decal is on the smaller side, a squeegee will be your go-to tool. Since the holes are so small, you’ll need a brush to loosen the dirt. We recommend a synthetic brush with sturdy but fine fibers. This will allow you to really get in there and clean all the dirt out while making sure no fibers are left behind. You’ll also need a bucket, some water, and your detergent of choice. We’ll get into what that should be below.

Should I Use Chemicals to Clean Them?

It’s best to limit the number of harsh chemicals you use to clean any vinyl decal. They aren’t likely to ruin your vinyl immediately, but over time they can break down the adhesive at the back of your vinyl. Cleaning perforated is a little bit different from cleaning vinyl decals. It’s easier to keep vinyl decals from peeling off the wall because they aren’t full of holes. This is especially true for perforated window decals. The high amount of tiny holes means there’s a higher chance of the detergent getting in under the vinyl, and damaging the adhesive. Your vinyl would then start to lift, and you’d need to replace it. You could also have a bubbling vinyl problem on your hands. Our recommendation is that you use a solution of mild soap and plenty of water. This solution will have enough enzymes in it to break down stubborn dirt in the holes of your perforated vinyl. It’ll also be weak enough to ensure that any solution that gets underneath your vinyl decal won’t damage the adhesive.

how to clean your perforated window decal

The safest possible way to wash your perforated window vinyl is with pressurized clean water. You’ll need to be careful with how much pressure you apply to your window, though. This is safest because it contains no chemicals, so you run no risk of damaging the adhesive. It’ll unfortunately only be effective if you haven’t let the dirt bake in for a while. If the dirt has been there for a few weeks and your decal is exposed to the sun, you’ll likely need to add soap to your cleaning regimen. Once you’ve cleaned all the grime out, you can maintain your vinyl decal’s cleanliness by rinsing it off every day with a hose. We recommend going in with some soap once every 4-6 weeks if you use this method for cleaning. This of it as a Spring clean for your decal to keep it in tip-top condition.

My Window Decal Is Ruined - Where Can I Get a New One?

You’ve come to the right place. We make high-quality vinyl decals, with perforated window decals being some of our core business. We understand how important it is to get your decals just right, especially when it comes to using them for business windows. We’ve served our customer base for years on end, producing top-quality products for countless homes and businesses. Our perforated vinyl decals for business windows are weatherproof, waterproof, easy to install and do no damage to the surface you install them on.

how to clean your perforated window decals

We can design custom vinyl decals for you, so you can advertise your business exactly as you’d like to. Our rates are competitive, and we strive to produce the best quality vinyl decals in the state. We provide full installation instructions for your decals, but if you’re too scared to do it alone, we’re here to help. We provide delivery and installation of our perforated window decals in the Southern California area, so you can rest easy knowing your decal will be displayed perfectly. Since we’re the best in the business, we know you might be from out-of-state and want to purchase vinyls from us. For this reason, we offer nationwide to anywhere within the United States. Depending on the size of the vinyl decal you’ve ordered, we also offer free and expedited shipping if we’re able to. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 03, 2022

Why Is My Vinyl Bubbling

When you get a new vinyl decal for your home, we know you want it to stick down perfectly from the get-go. You’re sometimes left wondering why your vinyl is bubbling, though. Bubbling decals are unfortunate, but they’re not the end of the world. Bubbles happen, and we have some nifty suggestions to help you get rid of them. We’re also going to explain to you why they happen. It’s a misconception that bubbles happen because the decal is of bad quality or because you didn’t stick them down correctly. There are, however, ways to stick decals down that minimize the chances of bubbles. We’ll take you through those too. What this article covers:

How Did Those Bubbles Get There?
Removing Air Bubbles from Vinyl

How Did Those Bubbles Get There?

Nothing is as upsetting as bubbles ruining your custom window vinyl decals, or any other decals for that matter. Bubbles sometimes enter your decal when you're removing the backing of the transfer tape. It’s common, and nothing to feel bad about. You run the risk of air bubbles even if you remove the backing tape perfectly. Bubbles underneath your vinyl decal are little pockets of air. They can also enter when you’re sticking your decal onto its designated surface. In this case, it’s a result of the vinyl not sticking down completely flat. Don’t worry - we’ve come up with a list of solutions for you.

Removing Air Bubbles From Vinyl

There are some super simple solutions for your air bubble problem. Here they are.

Poke a hole in it. It’s simple - to get rid of the air, you can poke a tiny hole in your vinyl decal to let it out. You’ll need to use a small pin as your tool. This helps ensure the hole you poke won’t be visible once the air is let out. It also makes sure you won’t accidentally tear your decal.
Let it settle. Sometimes, air bubbles appear underneath your vinyl decal shortly after you’ve applied it to a surface. The decal just needs some time to settle into place and once it has, the air will naturally be released from underneath it.
Expose the bubbles to natural sunlight. The bubbles should shrink in size after a few hours. This method might leave behind a small air bubble, which you’ll be able to squeeze away with your thumb while preventing your vinyl from peeling off the wall.
Use a hairdryer. The heat helps get rid of air bubbles, so this is a great option if you’re not able to position it in a way that exposes it to sunlight. Make sure you don’t use the highest heat setting on your hairdryer because this can damage the adhesive at the back of your decal.

To protect your vinyl decal, use your hairdryer in a low to medium heat setting. Once it’s heated, you can smoothen it with an application tool.

Preventing Air Bubbles

Preventing air bubbles is always easier than getting rid of them. But how do you do that? While none of these methods are foolproof, they do help minimize unnecessary air bubbles. It’s difficult to avoid having any air bubbles, but we can help you avoid nasty-looking large ones. This can help save your vinyl decals. Without further ado, here are our methods for preventing air bubbles:

Use the right application method. This involves peeling the adhesive correctly. You need to peel it gently from a corner tip, making sure you’re not doing it in a rush. Try to do it with even pressure, as this seems to help prevent bubbles from forming.
Smoothen the decal. This is part of the application process. As you’re applying the decal, use a smoothing application tool to run over the pieces making contact with the surface. This will help push air bubbles out as you’re applying the decal.
Pay attention. The moment you’re applying your decal is the best time to get rid of air bubbles. You’ll need to pay attention to what you’re doing so you can spot air bubbles straight away. Once spotted, employ the above methods to get rid of them before your vinyl is laying flat on its surface.
Don’t seal it in for a while. As we mentioned earlier, air bubbles can form and be released naturally a few days after your vinyl is put into place. Before you put lacquer over your vinyl decal, let it set into place and release air bubbles in the process.

Lacquer is only one of the things you can use to seal your decal for increased protection. You can also consider using polyurethane or polycrilic over your vinyl to seal it in place. Employing these tips and tricks will help you prevent or get rid of bubbles under your vinyl. Whether you’re using vinyl decals to spruce up your office window or your home, we know you want it in tip-top shape. If you feel like your vinyl decal has been ruined by air bubbles, get in touch with us. We create high-quality vinyl decals for all uses and occasions and would love to create one for you. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 03, 2022

How to Clear Coat Over Vinyl Decals

Although we don’t make decals for cars, we are often approached with the question of how to clear coat over vinyl decals. There are many important factors to consider when deciding to clear coat or not to clear coat. You may cause long-term damage to your decals or your car. It may be something that sounds like a good idea but actually has some disadvantages. It might even be the perfect answer for all your personal requirements. First, however, it’s essential to ask yourself why you would want to clear coat your decals in the first place. For your specific situation, is a clear coat even necessary? At Coastal Creative, we specialize in custom vinyl wall decals. If you want more information, take a look at our blog. What this article covers:

Why Choose to Clear Coat Your Decals
Why You Shouldn’t Clear Coat Your Decals
How to Clear Coat Decals

Why Choose to Clear Coat Your Decals

When a decal is constantly exposed to the elements, wear and tear will occur naturally over time. Some believe that by adding a clear coat, you can make the vinyl look new for longer. There are some situations in which this is the case. Your vehicle may be out in very harsh conditions such as thick mud or desert sand. These elements can speed up the damage caused to your decals. In this case, a clear coat makes sense to extend the life span of your decals. You may have decals with very fine, sharp details that may repeatedly catch on things like cleaning rags. By using a clear coat on those detailed spots, you can prevent that damage from occurring. Your car is going to be power washed regularly. The strength of the water coming from a power washer can easily and quickly lift the corners of your decals. This will look unsightly very quickly and therefore, a clear coat will help. Decals and a good clear coat are much more affordable than a fully custom paint job. Custom paint can be extremely expensive and often out of reach for amateur enthusiasts. Full-size decals are quick, easy, and much cheaper. There are those in the industry that believe that clear coating a vinyl decal will only cause more problems in the long run. So can you polyurethane over vinyl decals?

Why You Shouldn’t Clear Coat Your Decals

Most car decals these days are printed on high-quality, long-lasting vinyl that is built to withstand day-to-day damage from sunshine and rain. This and the following reasons are important to consider before even touching the clear coat. Unless you paint only the sticker, you are bound to get a clear coat on the car which can interfere with the body paint. The clear coat may drip or run, and it can develop bubbles that can completely ruin the car's overall aesthetic.

how you should clear coat over vinyl decal

The clear coat will get damaged eventually and will be extremely difficult to remove without destroying the decal underneath. You may delay the inevitable damage, but vinyl decal repair will be so much harder with a rock-hard seal over the decal. At least when the decal gets damaged you can peel it off and replace it, but when there’s paint over the top you may cause all sorts of damage to the car underneath when you try to remove it. The decal by itself will look much cleaner and will be easy to repair. Many vinyl decals are quite thick and may never look like they are part of the paint job. The edges might look very obvious. This can ruin the overall sleek appearance of the car. If you want to know more about how to protect vinyl decals, check out our blog.

How to Clear Coat Decals

As long as you understand how difficult it will be to remove or repair, and you feel that your need for a clear coat is still valid, we have a couple of tips for you. Some clear coats will smear your decal. Always run a test first using a few different clear coats and a test decal. This will help you to pick the right clear coat without causing permanent damage to your car's surface. It’s also important to ensure that the clear coat you pick doesn’t have any weird reactions with the vinyl material or the adhesive used for the decal before you stick it down. Some clear coats won’t even stick to the glossy laminate on some vinyl decals. Using an airbrush allows for soft, thin layers that you can build up bit by bit. By starting slowly with very thin layers, you can prevent any paint from slipping behind the decal and curling the edges. If you want to know how to get wrinkles out of vinyl decals, take a look at the Coastal Creative blog.

how you should clear coat over vinyl decals

Conclusion

We can’t tell you what to do, but we know a thing or two about vinyl decals and how to look after them. We hope we’ve explained how and why clear coating a vinyl decal on your car could cause you problems in the long run. While we completely understand that you want to do everything you can to keep your decals safe and stop them from aging prematurely, there are other ways to do it that won’t mess with the integrity of the vinyl and the paint on your car. We want your decals to look as great as you do, but a clear coat just isn’t the way to go about it. Consider any of the other methods to seal and protect your vinyl decal before you slap a clear coat on it. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 03, 2022

Can you put lacquer over vinyl decals?

Vinyl decals are bound to lose their glossy looks after being up in the rain and sun for a few years. It’s only natural that you’d want to keep everything looking new for as long as possible, so is there a way to shine up those decals? A good way to do that is through the coating and sealant. However, some coats work better than others while some don’t work at all, and if you’re not an expert on the subject, it can be difficult to know which is which. So, can you put lacquer over vinyl decals? Let’s find out. But before you can begin considering putting lacquer over your vinyl decals, it’s important to understand what exactly lacquer is. What this article covers:

What Is Lacquer?
What’s Polyurethane?
Differences between Lacquer or Polyurethane
Putting Lacquer Over Vinyl Decals

What Is Lacquer?

Lacquer is coated on wood and dries through solvent evaporation to make for a hardened, polished, and more durable finish. Most high-end furniture has a final lacquer finish to get that shiny aesthetic on the wood that’s so closely associated with grandeur and luxury. The reason so many furniture manufacturers insist on a lacquer finish is that it keeps the wood underneath from turning yellow with age. It also does a great job of protecting the furniture from water damage. When lacquer is being applied to something, it’s typically sprayed using a low-pressure sprayer. You also want to ensure that the room is ventilated. If you’re trying to restore faded vinyl decals, spraying lacquer over them won’t necessarily do the job. However, it will give your vinyl that glossy appearance that can breathe some new life into it. If you’ve invested in a custom-cut vinyl decal, you want to do everything you can to keep it looking shiny and new.

how can you put lacquer over vinyl decal

Lacquer typically has 3 variations: acrylic, water-based, and nitrocellulose.

Acrylic Lacquer

This type of lacquer works best for ensuring that the wood finishes don’t yellow, causing a clearer color. Acrylic lacquer is more resistant to scratches and marks while remaining flexible. This makes it a great choice for any kind of wood that’s not decorative and sees moderate to heavy use. Think of things like fishing poles or dowels. Acrylic is the most expensive out of the 3 acrylics and typically needs to be combined with a thinner agent when you apply it. However, this is also used for vinyl decals on walls or wooden surfaces.

Water-based Lacquer

Water-based is by far the least toxic of the 3. It’s pretty much odorless and it’s more durable than oil-based finishes. It dries fast, isn’t as expensive as acrylic, and when combined with nitrocellulose lacquer, it lasts for around 5 years once applied. This makes it an excellent choice for things like outdoor furniture that don’t need to twist and bend, but do need a substantial layer of protection against things like sunlight exposure and rain.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer

how can you put lacquer over vinyl decals

This lacquer is used to enhance color, making it perfect for both light and dark furniture. What sets this lacquer apart from the others is its evaporative property. You’ll have to apply multiple coats to get the finish you want, but it dries quickly, so you can get a moderately-sized piece wrapped up in an afternoon’s work. It began as a lacquer finish for cars and made its way to wood furniture after carpenters noticed how easy it was to work with. It now serves primarily as an excellent way to add a protective film over whatever you’re coating. Even though we’ve established what lacquer is, we still need to differentiate it from polyurethane. When looking at sealants, many people wonder if can you put polyurethane over vinyl decals.

What’s Polyurethane?

Polyurethane is popular for wood finishes and is a way to provide a thick glossy finish. Because it’s a polymer-based sealant, it’s somewhat similar to plastic when it's still in its liquid form. Where lacquer is thin, polyurethane is thick and isn’t as easy to apply. It can only be applied when a thinning agent is combined with it. Typically, you mix polyurethane and mineral turpentine to make the solution workable. Polyurethane comes in two types. Oil- and water-based, both of which are durable.

Oil-based

Old-based polyurethane provides a durable finish that takes a while to dry, often upwards of 24 hours depending on the conditions. It’s the most durable of the two and can withstand a good amount of heat. This makes it a good choice for an exterior vinyl decal if you live somewhere arid. The downside to oil-based is its toxicity and odor. If you want to apply this to any vinyl decals, it's essential to do so in a well-ventilated environment. If you incorrectly apply it, it’ll need to be sanded down, damaging the decal.

should you put lacquer over vinyl decals

Water-based

This is the less toxic and odorless finish out of the two. If applied to wood, you’ll see no yellowing over time as it protects the furniture from most of the effects of Uthe chemical reactions that take place in the wood. In the same way that water-based lacquer keeps furniture safe, it can protect your vinyl decals. It also dries faster than oil-based polyurethane. The downside is that it doesn’t handle heat as well as oil-based. These work best on desks and softer wooden surfaces that aren’t exposed to the sun too often. So, if you have a vinyl decal on a cupboard in your room or simply a wall away from a window, this is perfect.

Differences between Lacquer or Polyurethane

The key differences between these two finishes include the thickness, ease of application, and overall dry time.

Thickness

Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer and doesn’t penetrate into wooden surfaces as well as lacquer. It’s also more susceptible to scratches and causing vinyl decals to lose color over time. Lacquer does the job of being durable and longer lasting.

Application

Lacquer needs a high volume, low-pressure sprayer so that it can be sprayed onto the vinyl. Polyurethane on the other hand requires a brush if you want to apply it. The problem with this is that brush marks can be left on the vinyl decal itself, damaging the design. The spray is more expensive than buying a small brush with some polyurethane, but it's easier to apply and you don’t risk leaving any marks.

Drying Time

Lacquer takes less time to dry than polyurethane. This includes both of its variants. You’ll find that woodworkers prefer lacquer since it only takes around 10 minutes to dry. This means that they can apply a finish on more items in less time. Since lacquer takes such a short time to dry, you can apply multiple coats with ease. A common misconception about finishes is that they’re good if you want to get wrinkles out of vinyl decals. If your vinyl decal is already wrinkled, you need to solve the problem before you apply a coat of lacquer or sealant to it, otherwise, you’re only going to make the problem permanent. The appearance of wrinkles has a lot to do with the way you store your vinyl decals. Make sure you let them flat or hang them straight so there’s no chance for the wrinkles to form and you’ll be good to go.

Putting Lacquer Over Vinyl Decals

how you should put lacquer over vinyl decal

To answer the question that was proposed at the beginning of the article, yes, you can put lacquer over vinyl decals. But why would you need or want to do so in the first place? Lacquer acts as a finish on wooden surfaces, so if you have a vinyl decal on a wooden surface, you’re guaranteed a shiny coat. However, it can be applied to non-wooden surfaces too, and still serve its same purpose. If you want to save wall decals from looking faded and deteriorated, the coating is a good start. Applying lacquer over vinyl decals does a good job of making the transfer process easier. What it excels in is creating a good base coat for you to transfer the decal. Once you have a smooth, lacquered base and the decal is applied, simply let it dry and apply a lighter coat to keep that glossy look. However, if you’re applying lacquer over vinyl decals once it's already on the wall, it can lead to some problems.

Seeping

Applying too much lacquer to your vinyl decal can cause the lacquer to seep beneath the decal itself. This damages the adhesive responsible for transferring the vinyl to the wall as well as causing the decal to curl up. So, if you’re trying to keep your decals from peeling off walls or curling, using lacquer isn’t the answer. This means that if you already have edges that are peeling, don’t add a lacquer.

Bubbling

how you should put lacquer over vinyl decals

Depending on what lacquer you’re using, some won’t allow you to apply it during the transfer process. For example, the oil-based lacquer won’t be too kind to your vinyl compared to how they’re treated by acrylic and water-based. If you’re using oil-based lacquer, you want to wait a bit before applying it to the recently transferred decal. Since this lacquer is toxic, it can cause the solvents in the decal to react with the color, causing bubbles to appear after the transfer.

Conclusion

To sum all of this up, yes, you can put lacquer over your vinyl decal, and doing so poses many benefits. If you want to keep your vinyl decal looking glossy on whatever surface it's transferred to, coating it with lacquer will do the job. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 03, 2022

How to Clean Vinyl Decals

Whether you’re using vinyl decals on a car, wall, or window, it’s important to know how to clean vinyl decals. There are various dos and don'ts when cleaning decals. The materials, methods, and tools you use to do this can play an important part in the longevity of your vinyl decal. In this article, we’ll discuss steps on how to clean vinyl decals, how to prepare your surface before cleaning, as well as special tips to follow. What this article covers:

Steps on How to Clean Vinyl Decals
How to Clean Vehicle Decals
How to Clean Window Decals
Preparing Your Surface Before Applying Vinyl Decals
Special Tips When Cleaning Vinyl Decals

Steps on How to Clean Vinyl Decals

Step 1: Wet a Piece of Paper Towel The first step is to wet a piece of paper towel with water. You can then add a small amount of dishwashing liquid to the paper towel. The dishwashing liquid will effectively clean the grease and residue without causing harm or discoloration to the decal. Step 2: Clean The Decal Use a wet paper towel to clean the vinyl decal. You can do this by using small circular movements. Step 3: Dry The Decal Once you have wiped the decal down with the wet paper towel, you can now dry it. Dry the decal with a dry piece of paper towel. This will remove any leftover soap. Step 4: Buff The Decal Use fine-grain steel wool to buff decals. Make sure to buff in small circular motions. This will effectively buff the residue. Step 5: Wipe Down Give the decal one last wipe down with a damp paper towel. This will remove any lifted residue.

How to Clean Vehicle Decals

You can notice when a vinyl decal is aging. You may notice a white residue that looks similar to chalk. This is generated due to oxidation. The white residue can change the color of your decal. This can create a more bleached look. You’ll need to know the proper way to clean them as well as restore their color. Look at how to restore faded vinyl decals. You can also protect them from fading and damage. Look at how to protect vinyl decals. Vehicles are one of the most popular options for decals. Vehicles often face harsh weather conditions. Because of this, it’s important to know how to properly clean vehicle decals. Follow the steps below to correctly clean your vehicle: Step 1: Rinse the vehicle Gently rinse the vehicle and pay special attention to the areas where the decals and graphics are placed. Get rid of any dirt and dust that have built up on the vehicle. You can use a hose to rinse the car off. Step 2: Add soap After rinsing the car off, you can now mix detergent with clean water. Any non-abrasive detergent will work. It can be one that’s specifically designed for cars or a standard laundry or dishwashing soap. Make sure that the detergent has a pH between five and nine. This is to ensure that the detergent doesn’t damage the vehicle. You can also check the label for any alcohol or harsh ingredients. Avoid using anything except for a soft sponge or cloth to wash the areas of the car that have the decals or graphics on. Step 3: Rinse the soap off

After finishing the cleaning process, rinse the vehicle off again. This will ensure that the detergent has been removed from the vehicle. Step 4: Dry the vehicle You can let the vehicle air dry. Alternatively, a faster method is to use a soft microfiber cloth to gently dry off the decal. If there is any excess water then you can use a squeegee on these areas.

How to Clean Window Decals

Vinyl window decals should only ever be hand-washed. This is because harsh tools, such as a power washer or squeegee, may end up lifting and will cause damage to the vinyl decals. Just as you should not use harsh chemicals to clean your vehicle, you should not do this for windows either. If you use strong cleaning products, this could damage the vinyl. The best way to clean custom vinyl window decals is by using soap, hot water, and a clean cloth.

Follow these steps to clean your window decal: Step 1: Moisten a clean cloth You can start by making a micro-fiber cloth moist with hot water. Then add a dash of dishwashing liquid to the cloth. Dish liquid is safe to use as it is a mild detergent. This means that it can safely clean and remove grease and residue without damaging the vinyl decal. Step 2: Wipe down the decal with a damp cloth Use the damp micro-fiber cloth to wipe the decal. You can wipe it down using small circular motions. Step 3: Wipe down the decal with a dry cloth You can use a clean, dry micro-fiber cloth to wipe the area down. This will remove any leftover soap or residue. Step 4: Buff the decal If the vinyl decal still has heavy residue, use your moist microfiber cloth to buff the decal. Apply a little pressure while buffing and then wipe the vinyl window decal with your clean, dry micro-fiber cloth one last time to remove any lifted residue. You can also use a hose to clean your vinyl window decal. Just make sure that the hose is not used in full force. Ensure the hose is at least 18″ from the graphic to prevent damage or peeling.

Preparing Your Surface Before Applying Vinyl Decals

Before you install vinyl decals, you need to ensure that you thoroughly clean the surface on that you are placing your graphics. An unclean surface will cause the decal to not stick properly. Not only will the decal struggle to stick, but if the surface is not clean, any dirt left behind can cause the decal to have spots or bumps. These are not the same as bubbling. When installing your decal, ask yourself why your vinyl is bubbling. During transportation and application, your vinyl can also get wrinkles. You need to know how to get wrinkles out of vinyl decals. It also helps to know how to get sticky residue off the vinyl decal. We’ve got plenty of resources to keep you informed about vinyl decal care. You need to start with decal care during the installation process. As we now know, to effectively clean the surface, you can use a clean cloth and rubbing alcohol to wipe down the area where the decal is going to be placed.

Special Tips When Cleaning Vinyl Decals

There are a few do’s and don’ts when cleaning vinyl decals. Follow these tips to ensure your vinyl decal doesn’t get damaged.

Start by testing your cleaning solution and cloths on a small part of the wrap before using them on a large visible area.
Always read the labels on solvents and cleaners before you use them on your surface
Make sure the water temperature is correct. The water should not be above 75 degrees F. We recommend staying between 65 and 75 F.
If you are wrapping a vehicle, it’s best to store the vehicle indoors or somewhere under cover. This will prevent any harsh weather conditions from harming the vinyl decal.
Use a hose, but avoid pressure washers. Your hose should stay below 800 PSI
Wash your decal from the top down. This allows the dirty water to run down and off the surface
Soak your soft sponge or cloth in water and soap mixture before using it to clean.

Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 03, 2022

Can you ceramic coat over vinyl decals?

Knowing how to protect vinyl decals from debris and harsh UV rays is key to keeping them in a good condition. A ceramic coating seems like it would do the job, but how good of a job does it do? Join us in finding out whether you can ceramic coat over vinyl decals to provide protection. What This article covers:

What Is a Ceramic Coat?
How to Apply Ceramic Coating
Difference Between Lacquer and Ceramic Coating

What Is a Ceramic Coat?

can you ceramic coat over the vinyl decals

Ceramic coating describes the layer that is almost glass-like in texture and is applied over certain paints to protect it and preserve the look. Chances are that whenever you’ve heard someone speak about ceramic coating, the word nano has come up in the conversation. This is because the ceramic coating is often referred to as nano-coating because of the particle size that’s measured on the nanoscale. The material is extracted from quartz crystals and sand, and this creates a nanotechnology coating after being combined with water.

The Science of Ceramic Coating

They are typically made of silicon dioxide, silicon, and silicon nitrate. Sometimes graphene and titanium dioxide are used but the ingredients depend on where and how you want to apply the ceramic coat. The coating contains solid particles made up of resins and solvents, but some formulas are solvent-free. The latter is more difficult to apply while the former makes it much easier. Ceramic coating forms a bond with the surface beneath the vinyl decal and gives off a wax-like impression. Ceramic coating is designed using UV solar technology that resists stains and solar rays coming from that burning ball in the sky. This ensures that whatever you’re applying this coating to is protected and safe.

Benefits of Ceramic Coating

There are a few reasons you should consider applying a ceramic coating to your vinyl decals.

Lifespan

Ceramic coating lasts years. You could apply one coat and be sorted for years to come. This means you won’t need to constantly re-apply the coating, saving you precious time and money. Yes, you’ll spend a few bucks initially, but compared to the more traditional waxing that needs to be done weekly, the pros outweigh the cons. Ceramic coating is a good approach if you want to know how to save wall decals from looking old and worn out. They greatly improve the looks of your vinyl decal, making it glossy and practically new in appearance.

Protection

The ceramic coating won’t only make your vinyl decal glossy, but it does an exceptional job when it comes to protection. As you can imagine, the sun can have terrible effects on decals. The ceramic coating ensures that your custom-made vinyl decals don’t oxidize, keeping them from looking old and dull.

An extra layer added to anything will generally make it last longer and be more durable. Applying a ceramic coating to a vinyl decal will protect it from physical hazards such as debris falling onto the surface. This tends to leave scratches, but with the ceramic coating, your vinyl decal will be scratch free. Another cool fact about ceramic coating is that no chemicals can wash away the coating. This includes acid rain or washing detergents. Ceramic coating is hydrophobic so water won’t stick to the surface of your vinyl decal.

Easy to Clean

Cleaning vinyl decals can be a bit of a mission. Scrub too hard and you could risk the vinyl decal’s graphic being ruined. Add too much soapy water and the transfer tape beneath the vinyl can become less of an adhesive and more of a floppy piece of paper. The ceramic coat gives your vinyl decal more repelling power, so dirt and other substances won’t bond to it easily. This means you won’t need to scrub hard or use too much soap water since there won’t be much to clean outside of a few light stains.

can you ceramic coat the vinyl decals or not

Disadvantages

The only true downside of ceramic coating is the price. Yes, purchasing ceramic coating initially means you won’t have to replace it constantly. However, that initial purchase is more expensive than traditional coating and seals. Traditional waxing or polishing can be anywhere between $50 and $100, but a ceramic coating is around $700 to $1,000 to apply professionally. The spray itself can be anywhere between $100 to $200 but having a professional get the job done will turn out much better than a DIY project. The only reason that ceramic coating can be difficult to apply single handily is due to the conditions of your surroundings. This includes the applicable weather conditions as well as not rushing the process itself. However, it’s not impossible to do as a DIY project. If you have a smaller vinyl decal on a small surface area, some spray and a cloth will do the job.

How to Apply Ceramic Coating

how to apply ceramic coat the vinyl decals

Ceramic coating is a good way to keep decals from peeling off the wall or whatever surface it's transferred to. You’ll find that ceramic coating typically comes in a spray form that can easily be applied to any surface.

Prep Work

The first step is the prepare your vinyl decal and ready it for transfer onto whatever surface you want to apply it to. This includes taking the right measurements for the space you’re wanting the decal to occupy and cleaning the surface. The former ensures that the decal sits firmly on the surface, and the latter is essential during the transfer process. Having a dirty wall will interfere with the transfer tape on the vinyl decal and can lead it to bubble or fall off. So if you’re wondering why your vinyl decal is bubbling, it’s most likely due to your dirty wall. Once you’ve followed all the steps to applying the vinyl decal, you’ll be left with a vinyl decal sitting comfortably on your surface. It’s important to wait at least an hour or two before thinking of applying the ceramic coating. Applying it too soon can cause interference with the transfer paper and cause the design of the vinyl to deteriorate.

Application

how to apply ceramic coat the vinyl decal

Now, you take the ceramic coating and spray it over the surface area of the vinyl decal. This doesn’t only act as a way of protecting your vinyl decal, but it also protects it. This means you can add it to your list of how to clean vinyl decals with ease. Back to the application, you want to ensure that you have a microfiber towel or cloth on standby. You’re going to use this to spread out the ceramic coating. Once everything is spread, take the cloth, and flip it over to a clean side. You want to gently rub the ceramic coating spread Leave everything to set and voila, you can feel and see that your vinyl decal is smoother than ever. If you don’t apply ceramic coating to vinyl decals on cars or wooden surfaces, you’ll start to notice the decal turning yellow. This is due to constant exposure to the sun without any protection as well as other natural elements that affect the quality of the vinyl decal. In other words, this is a good way to know how to restore faded vinyl decals that have met their demise when staring at the sun.

Difference Between Lacquer and Ceramic Coating

how to apply ceramic coat over the vinyl decals

The main difference between these two methods of coating is how they’re applied as well as what they’re made of. Lacquer has 3 different variations, each of which is made up of different components. This includes acrylic lacquer which is the one commonly used on vinyl decals, water-based lacquer which is the most durable out of the lot, and nitrocellulose lacquer which was first introduced for vehicles. Ceramic coating is mostly made from silicon-based elements and there isn’t much complexity in how its made or applied. Lacquer requires you to layer the coats and wait for them to dry, with some coats being thick and others being thin. Ceramic coating only requires a few sprays and a wipe, and this process is repeated until the entire surface area of the vinyl decal is covered.

Conclusion

To sum everything up, you can place a ceramic coat over a vinyl decal, and it poses many benefits. If you want to ensure that your vinyl decal is protected and looks glossy, opting for a ceramic coating will be your best bet. Having a ceramic coat over your vinyl decal is good to protect and preserve your decal for years to come. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 02, 2022

How to Keep Decals From Peeling Off Wall

Decals are a fun and user-friendly way of adding some color and excitement to plain walls. They can also hide a multitude of flaws and are easily removed when you want to change the look of your home. Peeling murals, however, detract from the overall look of your home or business. This can be easily prevented, though. To keep them looking their best, we compiled this guide full of tips for how to keep decals from peeling off walls. What this article covers:

Why Causes Decals to Peel off Walls?
How to Prevent Decals from Peeling off Walls

Why Causes Decals to Peel off Walls?

Our custom vinyl decals are designed to look bright and beautiful for a long time. Consisting of custom-designed prints in vibrant inks, on a durable vinyl material, they are the ultimate in decor convenience.

Of course, to keep them looking fantastic, you need to take good care of them. There are several simple reasons why your decals may be peeling off the walls. The most common causes for decals to start peeling off walls are:

Incorrect application of wall decals.
Wall surfaces that are unsuitable for decal application.
Improper removal/ transporting of used decals for reuse elsewhere.
Failure to keep clean, or use abrasive cleaning agents on decals.
Expecting decals to last beyond their scope - especially outdoor ones.

How to Prevent Decals from Peeling off Walls

To prevent decals from peeling off walls, we need to avoid the five common mistakes in the list above.

Correct Application

Your decals come supplied with application instructions, but it couldn’t be easier. It really is a case of peel and stick. Why your vinyl decal is bubbling is something many people have run into and it’s a question we’ve heard over the years. The two main reasons are extreme temperature changes and incorrect application. Ensure your wall is completely dry and relatively smooth. If your vinyl is peeling shortly after application, chances are this is what went wrong. Any little bubbles caused by trapped air can usually be worked out by gently massaging with your fingers. However, in the case of larger decals, you may prefer to have them installed. This is especially true of commercial wall-size decals. If you’re situated in the San Diego and South Orange County area, we can not only deliver but also install your larger decals for you.

how to keep decals from peeling off walls

Suitable Wall Surfaces

Before applying your decal, be sure that the wall you have designated is suitable for decal adhesion. The best way how to keep decals from peeling off walls is to choose the right walls at the start.

Clean the Wall First

A dirty or oily wall doesn’t allow the adhesive on the back of the decal to cling properly to the surface.

Pick the Right Kind of Surface

The same applies to very uneven walls. While no wall is perfectly smooth, and this is usually not a problem, very uneven walls are not suitable for applying decals. Heavily textured surfaces such as brickwork are also not going to work because the adhesive won’t stick properly. Choosing the right surface is the first step in how to keep decals from peeling off walls. The ideal wall for the application of decals is flat, smooth, and non-porous. Decals may be applied to drywall, glass, cement, and finished wood surfaces. If in doubt, contact us and we’ll advise you of your options.

Don’t Apply Decals to Freshly-Painted Walls

Freshly-painted walls need to be left to cure before decals can be applied. This ensures that your decal adheres properly, and also prevents damage to the painted surface. If you place your decal onto a freshly painted wall, you may soon be left wondering how to keep decals from peeling off walls.

how to keep decals from the peeling off wall

The type of paint used determines how long you’re going to have to wait. Some paints allow decals to be applied after a week, whereas latex paints can take up to a month before it’s safe to apply a decal. If you are at all unsure, ask us for advice before proceeding with the application.

Removal and Reuse

An area where many decal owners fail is in how to transfer wall decals when moving. First, be sure to specify that you are looking for reusable wall decals when ordering your product. Not every custom mural product is repositionable, so mention this need right at the start.

Remove with Care

Our reusable decals are removable, and can therefore be reused at your new home or office. However, the way that you store and transport them is crucial. Rough treatment during removal, or reckless storage when moving, may result in damage to the adhesive backing. Has your decal has been on the wall for a longer time than the normal life expectancy, or been subjected to harsh outdoor conditions? In such a case, removal may prove to be a little more difficult. Simply apply some gentle heat with a hairdryer on low heat, but do not hold it too close to the decal. The heat helps to loosen the decal, and you may then remove it by pulling it away from the wall at a 45-degree angle. Do not use any sharp instruments to pry the backing away from the wall.

how to keep decals from the peeling off walls

Transport Carefully in a Flat Position

If possible, reapply the backing film or a similar sheet to the back of your decal, and lay it flat for storage and transportation. Failure to do so may damage the adhesive backing properties of your decal. In that case, it is sure to start peeling from the walls after installing it in your new spot. If your decal was in use for some time or used outdoors, it will naturally show signs of wear and tear. It may be best to replace it with a new custom decal. Simply provide us with the old one, or a picture of it, to have an identical one made up for you.

Cleaning

Proper maintenance is essential how to keep decals from peeling off walls. Decals last longer when kept clean, and we’re not just talking about dust on the surface. Dirt and grime can get in between the adhesive backing and the wall, especially after a long time, or if used outdoors. Keeping the surface free from dust makes this less likely to occur. Don’t worry about how to clean vinyl decals. It’s really very simple and should form a part of your regular household cleaning routine. No special products are required, just some good old-fashioned common sense.

What to Do

A simple wipe-down with a soft, clean cloth usually does the trick. You may even use a traditional feather duster if you wish, to remove any loose specks of dust. The important thing is to prevent dust from getting in underneath the decal. Regular dusting significantly lowers this risk. When used as outdoor wall decals or in high-traffic areas, simple dust can quickly turn to sticky grime. When this happens, a simple dusting isn’t going to be sufficient. If necessary, use a moistened cloth with a very mild solution of bleach-free dish soap in tepid water.

how to keep your decals from peeling off walls

What Not to Do

Don’t be tempted to use harsh cleaning agents on your decals. This could damage your print, and may also seep in between the backing and the wall, weakening the adhesive. Also, avoid the use of scratchy sponges as these may cause damage to the decal’s surface. When used outdoors, our decals are surprisingly resilient and waterproof in rainy conditions. This does not mean that you can use a high water pressure machine to blast away the dirt around your decal.

Extending the Life of Your Decals

You may have wondered if you can seal your custom-printed wall murals and decals by applying polyurethane over vinyl decals. Yes, you can do this to preserve your decal. Save yourself the hassle, and ask for our lamination service.

how to keep your decals from peeling off wall

Professional Lamination for a Longer Life Span

We professionally seal your decals, without any loss of vibrancy in the process. This extends the life of your decal, with no damage to the print or fading of the colors. Not only is this going to make your decal look better for longer, but it also prevents you from damaging your decal in the event of sealing it yourself.

What Is the Lifespan Without This Lamination?

This is the best way we know how to protect vinyl decals. That being said, decals have a life expectancy, like any other product. They can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from -20°F to +150°F, and should last for up to 5 years indoors and 2 years outdoors. Lamination extends this life.

Conclusion

Decals provide a quick and easy transformation of any space. They are quick and easy to apply, and thanks to our custom decal service, can match any decor theme you desire. To keep them looking their best you need to take proper care of them. Follow the tips above, and they’ll serve you well for years to come. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 02, 2022

How to Protect Vinyl Decals

If you got yourself a brand-new vinyl deal for your home, you want it to be protected. Decals are a great way to breathe new life into a bland space or leverage a plain wall or window into an opportunity to advertise. Decals can deteriorate, fade, and fall off the surface they were transferred to if you don’t take the proper steps to keep them in place. If you’ve gone to all the trouble of designing, purchasing, and applying a decal, that’s probably the last thing you want to happen. Here are some tips and tricks on how to protect vinyl decals. What this article covers:

Sealing
Liquid Over Laminate
Clear Coating
Vinyl Shield
Protection from the Start

Sealing

Sealing is a good approach to preserve wall decals or any vinyl decal for that matter. Using sealant protects the surface of whatever you use it on while giving it a glossy appearance. When it comes to applying a seal, there are typically 3 different approaches and each depends on the surface to which the vinyl is being applied. The first is a lacquer or polyurethane spray, the second is a dishwasher podge, and finally, we have an epoxy resin kit.

Applying a Seal to Wooden Surfaces

Custom vinyl wall decals on wood look professional and stylish, but the execution is probably the most difficult out of all the surfaces.

The first step to preparing vinyl on wood is to ensure that it's sanded and smoothed out. Working on a wooden surface is the perfect opportunity to put lacquer over your vinyl decal. It’s just as effective a sealant as things like polyurethane and polycrylic over vinyl, but it looks a little more professional and luxurious. Bear in mind that if you’re using lacquer or any other sort of finish, you must give it enough time to dry. If it’s a warm, dry day, you’re going to need at least 24 hours. If it’s humid, the moisture in the air is going to make the setting process take a bit longer. Placing a vinyl decal on a piece of wood that’s dripping in the lacquer can cause the solvents to mix and leads to bubbling. If your vinyl decal is bubbling, there could be a few causes. It could be anything from an incorrect application process to applying too much sealant before the decal is properly set.

Applying a Seal to Trays or Plastic

Trays are relatively simple when it comes to transferring a decal to them. You don’t need to worry about smoothing the surface. For these surfaces, we recommend an epoxy resin kit. They’re super easy to use and are the most affordable out of the lot. Once the decal is on the tray, ensure that it covers the entire surface area. Taking a lighter and moving it across the tray will cause any bubbles left behind from the epoxy resin to pop and fade away. If you want to know how to store vinyl decals on these trays, consider covering them up with poster board. This keeps dust and debris away from the tray while it's left to dry. Plastic plaques are also nice additions to your home, especially if there’s a vinyl decal on them. These plaques are placed outside and no matter what outdoor vinyl you’re using, the decal is bound to peel. The reason for this is due to the temperature outside is cooler and more humid.

We find that using polyurethane spray as a seal on plastic works well. It’s important to note that if you’re applying this spray to an item you are in a well-ventilated area. Polyurethane is toxic and has a strong odor so we recommend applying it outside or in a well-ventilated, large room with a fan blowing. Simply spray the entire surface area of the plaque and leave it out to dry for around 30 to 60 minutes. There’s no limit to the number of coats you apply since it’s a spray. The more you apply, the thicker the finish.

Smaller Items

If you have a mug with a decal on it and accidentally throw it into the dishwasher, chances are the decal will rub off and deteriorates. What if we told you that sealing the mug after the decal is transferred prevents that from happening? This is where you want to use a dishwasher podge that covers the entire mug. If the podge isn’t completely covering the mug and is only over the decal, you could see some brush marks. The space between where the podge ends is also an opportune space for water to get in and start lifting your decal. The dishwasher podge is a seal that’s used in arts and crafts projects, allowing for a smooth finish on your items that go inside the dishwasher. Take a small brush and lightly go over the mug or whatever small item has a decal on it. You want roughly 3 coats of the podge before leaving it out to dry. The only problem with using the podge is that it takes 28 days to cure once applied to the mug.

Liquid Over Laminate

If your vinyl decals are outside and facing the conditions of the harsh sun, they are going to need some protection if you want to see them last for a while. Liquid overlaminate typically comes in a package including the brush and tray so you won’t need to worry about purchasing individual components. You want to ensure that the roller is saturated with the overlaminate, and once that’s finished, you can begin rolling across the vinyl. The rolling should be done up and down without being too rough on the decal. Pressing too hard could cause the decal to shift, especially if it was recently applied. The liquid overlaminate self-levels in about 30 minutes, removing the bubbles and adding a glossy aesthetic to the already beautiful vinyl decal. If you want to add a coat once the 30 minutes have passed, then feel free to do so.

Clear Coating

If you want to know how to protect your vinyl decals, you need to know how to clear coat over vinyl decals. Clear coating is a type of finish that can either be a lacquer or a synthetic liquid. It’s applied over objects to create a glossy look while adding an extra layer of protection. Not only does it enhance the appearance of the object containing the decal, but it increases the durability of whatever it’s applied to.

How Is a Clear Coating Applied?

The clear coating should only be applied when the vinyl decal is set and all ready on the surface. Clear coats are applied using a sprayer and for the first coat, you want it to be light and do so in a swaying motion. The problem with putting a heavy coat on, in the beginning, is the coat’s solvents causing the adhesive on the vinyl to wear off. Once the first coat is on, you want to wait for around 10 minutes before applying the second and third coats. Since we already have a lighter coat acting as a base, we can now add a thicker coat. We must wait another 10 minutes between adding the second and third coats. These coats are wetter than the first coat so adding a wet coat too quickly will cause the coating to drip.

Post Coat

After waiting for a day or two, there’s one more step to ensuring that everything is perfect. You’re going to need a felt block or sandpaper as well as a sprayer with some water. When you clear coat over vinyl decals, you’ll notice a buildup of the coating around the edges after it’s dry. This can be rectified by spraying some water over the area and using a semi-rigid felt block to lightly scrub over the edges. This smooths the coat so that a final coat can be added at the end.

A felt block will be gentler than sandpaper and allows our final decal design to have a straight and clean polish. You want to ensure that any peel or imperfection that’s noticeable is removed using the felt block and you should be left with an almost matte look. If you have a vinyl decal on a more intricately designed object like a piece of a motorbike, you’ll have areas that the felt block can’t reach. For this, you want to use red scotch with some water and continue scrubbing.

The Flow Coats

This is the final step of our coating process. Instead of doing a light coat first, you would have a more medium coat. This is combining the swift motion of a clear coat and the freestyled thick coat. The second coat should be applied roughly 5 minutes after the first coat and this one is going to be thick. This means you can go at your rhythm until you feel like the coat is thick enough. However, this doesn’t mean you should add an excessive amount of coating. If you notice the coating starts to droop or bubble, ease up on the trigger. Plus, you still need to make room for one more coat. The final coat is that final glossy finish, and to achieve a gloss, it needs to be wet. All you need to do now is wait for around an hour and voila, you have a protected, glossy vinyl decal on the surface of your choice.

Vinyl Shield

A vinyl shield is a protective layer that goes over the vinyl decal, preventing the decal from deteriorating and making it dishwasher friendly. It’s a clear mask material that has an adhesive backside to allow for more protection when transferred onto non-textured surfaces. It’s also UV protective so your decals won’t need to face the harsh sun alone. Vinyl Shield is a good way to protect your items and decals from scratches.

How to Apply Vinyl Shield

You need to design your decal first using the software of your choice. To get the measurements of the vinyl shield itself, you need to offset the measurement of the decal by at least 0.5 inches. Once you have those two separate designs, you want to use your vinyl cutter with the vinyl material of your choice. You then weave out the pieces of the vinyl you don’t want to use, and you should be all set to go. The vinyl shield itself is purchased as a roll of material, the same way you purchase vinyl. The shield is placed into the vinyl cutter using the same measurements as the vinyl decal. You should be left with a roll of a vinyl shield with the outline of the decal. Trim out the unwanted parts and you’ll be left with a clear block.

The vinyl shield comes with application tape so place that over the vinyl shield. If you want to ensure that your layering is good, try using tracing paper so you can see exactly where the shield needs to be. When it comes to layering, try applying the shield at an angle to ensure that no bubbles are present when rolling the shield over. You can then use a tumbler to apply the vinyl decal on and you’re all set to go.

Protection From the Start

If you want to ensure that your vinyl decals remain in a good condition start with the initial transfer process. Before you can think about transferring the vinyl, you need to make sure that everything is clean. So, if you’re wanting to place your vinyl on a wall, it’s important to clean the surface. If the surface is dirty, the decal won’t stick and if it does, it will fall off sooner than later. Dirt on a wall or surface also causes spots or bumps that interfere with the design of the decal itself. This takes away the beauty of the vinyl. Cleaning a wall only requires a clean cloth and some alcohol to ensure that those nasty dirt molecules have vanished.

Whatever alcohol you use, make sure that it doesn’t contain ammonia as that can harm the transfer paper on the back of the decal. Be sure to rub down the decal firmly with a squeegee to ensure that the transfer paper is applied properly. Also, try not to apply the vinyl decal in wet and humid conditions. If you’re in a room that’s too cold, the walls will become moist and slippery.

Conclusion

We hope we’ve managed to show you how important protecting your vinyl decal is. If you’re going to go through all the effort of designing and applying a decal to a wall, window, or other furniture, it’s a shame not to put in the extra work to keep it looking great for as long as possible. No decal is ever truly permanent, but with the right preparation and care, you can keep a high-quality decal around for a good five years without having to remove or replace it. Given how inexpensive yet stylish these decals can be, it’s a bargain and well worth the time you put into it to protect it from the elements. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 02, 2022

How to Restore Faded Vinyl Decals

Vinyl decals age with time like we do. They might lose their vibrancy and seem dry. Sometimes, they’ll get an unsightly chalky look. Any of these signs on your decals could mean that they’re fading. It’s a warning your decals need restoration, and the sooner you get to it, the better. We’ll show you how to restore faded vinyl decals in this article. So you can get their new shiny look back. We’ll also give you some suggestions on how to clean vinyl decals to help you care for your decals properly. Caring for your vinyl decals is essential in maintaining their original state and extending their lifespan. What this article covers:

What Causes Vinyl Decals to Fade?
How to Restore Faded Vinyl Decals
What to Do to Extend the Lifespan of Your Decals

What Causes Vinyl Decals to Fade?

Your vinyl decals fade when the chemical bonds in their dyes break down, and the oils used to make them seep out as a vapor. This process is known as oxidation. When it happens, a chalk-like residue remains on your decals. They lose the brightness of their original color and may appear white as if bleached. There are three main reasons your decals fade:

Exposure to excess sunlight and bad weather – ultraviolet radiation from the sun triggers the oxidation process and makes your decals appear several shades lighter.

The more sunlight your decals absorb, the lighter they’ll get because they absorb more heat. That’s why decals placed outside, under direct sunlight, disintegrate faster than those applied indoors.

Exposure to too much moisture – excess water or moisture makes your decals deteriorate faster. It also causes mold and mildew to form on your decals. They reduce the visual appeal of your decals.
Poor maintenance habits – using harsh chemicals to clean your decals will disintegrate them. Also, cleaning your decals the wrong way makes them lose their original shine and appear dull.

It’s critical to note that oxidation happens faster in some decals than in others. As a result, some decals fade more quickly than others. It all depends on their material, manufacturing process, and colors used. Ensure you restore your decals as soon as you can when they begin to fade. That’s because oxidation happens gradually. So your vinyl decals will continue to fade with time and may become unrestorable and unusable at some point. The best vinyl decals restoration process will not only restore the shine and color of your decals but also protect them from further deterioration.

How to Restore Faded Vinyl Decals

We’ll show you how to restore faded vinyl decals without damaging them in this five-step tutorial. You’ll need the following materials for the procedure:

Clean water
Soft cloths
Cleaning solution
Rubbing alcohol
Restoration product
Brush (optional)
Spray apparatus (optional)
Sodium percarbonate cleaner (optional) – you might need this if your decals have mold or mildew.

Gather everything you’ll need before proceeding to step one. The trick to bringing your decals back to life lies in the preparation process you do before restoration. Most people don’t realize this and might use tons of expensive restoration products on their decals without success. Steps 1-4 are all about the prep work. You have to do it a specific way if you want to restore your decals into their almost original state.

Step 1: Inspection

Inspect your vinyl decal to identify the extent of the disintegration. You’re looking to see if your decal has any mold or mildew in this step. Doing this will help you prepare the best cleaning solution required for step two. If you notice mold or mildew, use sodium percarbonate to create your cleaning solution. Mix a teaspoon of sodium percarbonate in approximately 8 ounces of water to get the best results. If there’s none, you can mix the standard detergent you use to wash your dishes or do laundry with water. Just ensure that it doesn’t have any harsh solvents.

Don’t use ammonia-based cleaners because they’ll tamper with your decal’s adhesiveness and reduce its longevity. You don’t want to create a new problem instead of solving one. For the mixing part, use a 70-30 ratio in this case. That is 70% water and 30% of non-abrasive detergent. Once you have your cleaning solution ready, move on to step 2.

Step 2: Cleaning

Use your soft cloth and cleaning solution to remove any dirt from your vinyl decals. Be gentle as you rub the surface of your decals in a circular motion. Gentle circular motions using something soft are the best way to clean all decals without damaging them. It’s how to clean perforated window decals without causing them to peel. Never rub hard or use any scrubbing pad. It’s a sure way to destroy your decals and render them useless.

Step 3: Rinsing

After rubbing off the dirt from your decals, rinse them with clean water. Then, let them air dry completely before continuing. It’s essential to give them ample time to dry properly.

Step 4: Wiping

In this step, pick a soft cloth, dab some rubbing alcohol on it, and wipe your decal's surface to ensure it’s all clean. Be careful not to leave any dirt on the surface of your decal. It might create bumps or spots on it, destroying its graphics. Remember to be gentle as you wipe your decal to avoid damaging it. Also, using rubbing alcohol in this way is how to get sticky residue off a vinyl decal.

Step 5: Restoring

The final step is to apply your vinyl decal restoring product. You can use a brush, spray apparatus, or soft cloth to rub it on your decal. The application tool you use will depend on the restoration product you choose. To get the best results, avoid products with petroleum distillates. They'll dissolve your vinyl decals’ adhesive and cause them to peel off your surface. Know how to keep decals from peeling off walls to handle this issue accordingly if it ever arises. We recommend using a soft cloth for application. You'll get a uniform color and regain your decal's original shine successfully with this. Also, some of the most effective vinyl decals restoration products come with the best soft cloth wipes. They also protect your decals from further disintegration. To apply the restoration product, test a small area first to know how it works. Once you check and confirm that the product works well, rub it on the rest of the decal. Slowly start from the top and move downwards during application to avoid creating blotchy marks. Keep rubbing your product on the surface and buffing it a few minutes afterward to get rid of the oxidized layer and achieve that fresh look.

What to Do to Extend the Lifespan of Your Decals

Extending the lifespan of your decals requires proper care. There are a few things you can do to make your decals last long:

1. Protection From Sunlight

Protecting your decals from the sun’s U.V rays will increase their lifespan without a doubt. You can use polyurethane or polycrylic over vinyl decals to minimize the effects of sunlight exposure. Generally, applying and managing sealants is how to protect vinyl decals from different weather conditions. But there are disadvantages to it. The process of handling these sealants is often tedious and might affect your decal's appearance. That’s why we manufacture our decals with maximum protection from the word go. As mentioned before, the material, manufacturing process, and color of your decals determine the rate at which they fade. We use a high-quality material – cast vinyl – to make durable decals that can stand the test of time. We also print our decals using U.V resistant inks to prevent fading and offer a lamination option to protect them further. Check out our custom die-cut vinyl decals and let us meet your design needs. Our experts will also help you pick the right colors to match your specifications. Colors matter when creating decals because some, like yellows and reds, are more vulnerable to the sun’s rays. They fade faster than other colors.

2. Regular Cleaning

Cleaning your decals often helps maintain their quality and longevity. Be keen to use the right cleaning products and follow the cleaning method outlined under step 2 to get the best results.

3. Save & Store Properly

How you save and store your decals when moving or changing designs is part of maintaining their quality and longevity. Avoid folding. Instead, roll your decals gently and secure them with a rubber band to transfer and store them safely. Learn more on how to save wall decals and how to store window decals properly to make them last longer.

Conclusion

While fading is the natural aging process of decals, it doesn't happen fast. A well-made indoor decal, for example, can last for over five years without losing its luster. We create our decals to last this long in their pristine condition. So fading is not a problem you’ll have to worry about when you get your decals from us. But, if you’re already struggling with the issue, use the process we’ve laid out above to restore your decals. They’ll look good as before in no time. If you try our vinyl restoration process and your decals remain the same, the problem could be more than fading. Reach out to us for expert advice on what to do next. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides:

By coastaladmin2023 / Oct 02, 2022

How to Get Sticky Residue off Vinyl

There are countless methods online for getting sticky residue off vinyl decals. With all that information out there, it can be difficult to find which ones are the most effective. Some methods come highly recommended, but just don’t work well. Since we’re vinyl experts, we thought we’d put together a list of methods that actually work for you. We’ll go over the best solvents to use. We’ll also tell you what else you’ll need before getting started so that you don’t get caught mid-job without a crucial tool. Lastly, we’ll give you some expert tips and tricks we’ve learned over the years. What this article covers:

Why Is there Sticky Residue?
What’s the Best Remover?
What Else do I Need?
Steps to Remove Sticky Residue from Vinyl
Tips & Tricks

Why Is there Sticky Residue?

Vinyl decals are a popular choice for decor, and they have to stick to your wall somehow. An adhesive on the back of your vinyl decal is strong enough to make it stick to your wall for years. The advantage is that the decal will last for years, but one downside is that when you decide to take it off, there might be some sticky residue left behind. Sometimes vinyl decals also ooze some of that sticky residue after having been on your wall for a few years. This is particularly common if you’ve put lacquer over your vinyl decal. This is normal, and it doesn’t mean your decal is going to fall off. It just means it’s been exposed to high temperatures, and some of the adhesives have melted. This is normal, and there are ways to remove the adhesive that won’t damage your paint or your custom vinyl wall decal. Let’s go over them.

how to get off sticky residue from vinyl decal

What’s the Best Remover?

Not all removers need to be a solvent. There are gentler ways to remove sticky vinyl residue from your walls. It all depends on how much there is to remove, what kind of wall you have, and what kind of paint is on your wall. The main goal is to protect your wall and paint from damage. Sometimes a strong solvent is needed, though. We’ll include some options.

For Old Vinyl

Your first option is to spray water on the solvent. This is the best method to protect your vinyl decals. It’s not the strongest method, so it’s best used on aged adhesives. When the glue on the back of your vinyl is old, it’s easier to remove from your walls. For this method, you’ll need to spray some water on the adhesive and combine it with a little elbow grease. If this doesn't work, you’ll need to use something stronger.

Mineral Oil

Your next option is mineral oil. This takes a while to work, so you’ll need to spray it on and leave it for up to an hour. You’ll see the residue become translucent, and it’ll come off your wall easily when wiped with a sponge or cloth. Before using this method, check that mineral oil won’t stain your paint. If it will, you can use rubbing alcohol instead. This does the same job without damaging your paint. You’ll also need to take into consideration whether you have polycrylic or polyurethane over your vinyl decal.

Soap

Another way you can get the sticky residue off your wall is by using dish soap, water, and a sponge. Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, so it’s powerful enough to cut through sticky residue. Like most solvents, this option works best when it’s given adequate time to work. We suggest not making your mixture too watery, so it has enough grip to stay in place on your wall. Spray or wipe it on, and give it about half an hour to work its magic. After that, you should be able to wipe the residue off. This is one of the safest methods in terms of preserving the pain on your walls.

WD-40

Our last option for you is the strongest, most reliable one. WD-40 has a multi-function formula that’s capable of removing almost any substance from a surface. It’s one of those wonder products. It comes as no surprise that it’s great at removing sticky residue. Simply spray it on and give it a few minutes to work. You’ll be able to wipe the residue off your wall. Some people worry about whether this will make their vinyl decals peel off the wall. It’s safe, but try to avoid spraying it directly on your vinyl.

What Else do I Need?

In most cases, using a spray bottle makes the process of applying your remover of choice much easier. Spray bottles with highly-targeted nozzles are best. Depending on your chosen method, you might want to use a pair of gloves. This is to protect your hands from chemicals. Lastly, you’ll need a sponge with a rough surface. This helps get the last of the sticky residue off.

Steps to Remove Sticky Residue from Vinyl

First, you’ll need to put your solvent of choice into a spray bottle. Depending on which method you’ve chosen, you might need to mix it with some water. Next, you’re going to spray your mixture directly onto the residue. Set a timer, and wait patiently. This step is important. If you don’t leave it for long enough, the solvent won’t have time to work. Lastly, you're going to wipe off the adhesive and scrub off any remnants of it. Sometimes the glue doesn’t wipe off easily, and in this case, you’ll need to use the rough end of a sponge to get the last bits off your wall. It’s as easy as that!

how to get sticky residue off vinyl decals

Tips & Tricks

Our number one tip is not to mix your solvent with too much water. You’ll need to mix it with some water, but watering it down too much can render it useless. Another tip is to always make sure the method you’ve chosen is compatible with your paint. We’ve heard too many horror stories about paint being removed when focusing too hard on how to save your wall decal. Did you enjoy reading our blog? Then consider checking other guides: