SURFACE PREPARATION
Preparing Walls, Windows and Textured Surfaces for Vinyl
Vinyl graphics perform best when the installation surface is clean, dry, stable and compatible with the selected material. Surface problems should be identified before the installer arrives.
1. General Preparation
Remove dirt, dust, grease and loose debris
Keep the installation area accessible
Remove movable displays and furniture
Identify damaged areas
Confirm that construction work is complete
Avoid cleaning products that leave residue
2. Painted Walls
Paint must be fully cured
Loose, peeling or chalking paint is not suitable
Repairs should be completed before installation
Fresh paint may require additional curing time
Low-VOC and specialty paints may require compatibility review
There is no guaranteed universal curing period. The paint manufacturer’s instructions and vinyl manufacturer’s requirements should always be checked.
3. Windows and Glass
Remove stickers and adhesive residue
Clean edges and corners
Confirm whether coatings or films are already present
Identify cracked or damaged glass
Keep window areas clear and accessible
4. Smooth Panels
Check for grease, oxidation, loose coatings and surface damage
Confirm the panel type
Confirm whether vinyl is being applied before or after the panel is mounted
Provide dimensions and installation height
5. Textured Walls, Brick and Concrete Block
Surface texture must be reviewed
Dust, moisture and loose masonry can affect adhesion
The selected vinyl must be intended for the surface
Some surfaces may not be suitable
Clear close-up and wide-angle photographs are required
6. Floors
Surface must be clean and dry
Existing coatings and sealers must be disclosed
Traffic conditions must be considered
Floor graphics require compatible material and overlaminate
Damaged or uneven floors require review
7. Environmental Conditions
Temperature, moisture, wind, rain and active construction conditions can affect installation timing.
8. What Not to Do
Do not apply wax or polish before installation
Do not paint immediately before installation without confirming curing requirements
Do not conceal surface damage
Do not assume every textured surface accepts vinyl
Do not clean with products that leave an oily residue
9. Pre-Installation Checklist
Surface condition
Access requirements
Site and close-up photographs
Measurements
Material specifications
Scheduling and access windows
Not Sure Whether the Surface Is Ready?
Send Wicked clear photographs of the complete installation area and close-up photographs of the surface before the installation date.