Digital Print Media

Clear Adhesive Overlaminates for Windows: Application Tips & Tricks

April 18, 2019 By Digital Print Media Editor

Choosing the correct media for a window decal application is the first step to creating a graphic that your customers (and their customers) will love and buzz about. Clear adhesive overlaminates are a popular choice for window graphics because they can be inexpensive and easy to install – just make sure the film is printable. HP Gloss Polymeric Overlaminate and HP Matte Polymeric Overlaminate are perfect for window graphic applications. Each features a 140g DSPE lay-flat liner and performs exceptionally well for printable applications as well as an overlaminate.

Popular window graphic applications

Indoor and outdoor signage
Special effects
Privacy
Decor
Promotional decals
Brand building
Overlaminate solutions

Keep reading for helpful tips and tricks on how to apply install window graphics like a professional.

Clean the Area Where the Graphic Will Be Applied

The first thing you want to make sure of when applying vinyl window graphics is that the surface area you’re applying them to is thoroughly cleaned. Take your time to ensure there is no dust, dirt or grime that may get in the way. Use a lint-free wipe and a non-ammonia based cleaner to clean the surface.

Certain cleaning solutions have chemical agents that can cause the adhesive to not bond to the window surface. Once clean, be sure to wait until the surface is entirely dry. Using an IPA (isopropyl alcohol)/water mixture (50% water with 50% IPA) can help accelerate drying time and is a great cleaning solvent for windows. Thoroughly cleaning the area is critical and will help you to avoid unattractive mishaps, such as bubbling or messy edges. It will also help ensure the graphic lasts longer because there will be nothing keeping it from sticking to the surface.

Get Fluid Prepared for ‘Wet’ Application Method

The wet application method is the recommended application method for getting the vinyl window graphics to slide around the surface well. You can make this fluid easily with a couple drops of dish soap mixed with water and poured into a spray bottle. Remove the liner from the graphic and spray the window with a generous amount of the mixture and well as the adhesive side of the graphics and position it where you would like on the window. You should be able to move it around easily to get the positioning you’d like. The graphic may appear hazy after the initial installation which could last up to several days before clearing.

Final Steps

Using a soft squeegee, squeegee from the center of the graphic out towards the edge of the graphic forcing the fluid to escape. You can choose to use application tape to hold the window decal into place. To smooth out remaining liquid and bubbles, use a soft squeegee and work from the center of the graphic out towards the edge. If application tape was applied, wait a minimum of 15 minutes before removing tape, keeping it parallel to the glass. Pull back the application tape at a 180 degree angle to minimize the possibility of lifting the applied graphic. Be sure to double check to make sure that positioning is what you want before the solution begins to dry. You won’t be able to move it around freely if it dries up.

HP’s Recommended Application fluids

Rapid Tac
IPA/Water mixture (75% water to 25% IPA)
Mix a gallon of water with approximately 1 tsp of mild/synthetic detergent that does not contain perfumes, wax, oils, or lotions

HP’s Recommended Installation Steps

Test the glass surface for wax or other coatings by placing several drops of water on various areas of the glass. If the water forms into beads, then there is a coating on the glass that needs to be removed prior to application. If water does not form into beads, the glass surface is ready to install.
Apply a generous amount of application fluid using a spray bottle/applicator completely covering the window for which graphic will be applied. Depending on the size of the graphic, it may be helpful to also spray the adhesive side of the print as well.
Remove the liner from the graphic and position the graphic on the area where the fluid was sprayed.
Using a soft squeegee, squeegee from the center of the graphic out towards the edge of the graphic forcing the fluid to escape.
If application tape was applied, wait a minimum of 15 minutes before removing tape, keeping it parallel to the glass. Pull back the application tape at a 180 degree angle to minimize the possibility of lifting the applied graphic.

Download HP’s Tips and Tricks for Installing Window Graphics >>

How to Prepare Your Floors for a New Floor Graphic

January 8, 2019 By Digital Print Media Editor

Using floor graphics is a powerful way to convey messages. These wonderful graphics have a whole range of useful applications. Just a few examples include sales messages in stores and malls, wayfinding in hospitals or airports, or safety messages in warehouses and factories.

When selecting floor graphic inkjet media, the material should meet anti-slip standards such as those set by ANSI/NFSI (American National Standards Institute/National Floor Safety Institute) and various R (ramp test) ratings (UK).

AlumiGraphics® GRIP — AlumiGraphics GRIP contains an aggressive adhesive that is designed to be removed without leaving residue behind.

It is good practice to use media with a removable adhesive so that it can be removed without leaving stains or marks on the application surface. Most important is the use of a good laminate (if the media requires it). This is primarily to provide a slip-resistant surface and make sure the installation is safe to be walked on, but it also helps to protect the image from damage.

Golden rules

Regardless of the surface, it needs to be clean and dry. Avoid application in the cold as this will impact the effectiveness of the adhesive.

A good way to start any application is to lay the graphic on the floor where you want it to be with the backing still on. Stick the graphic to the floor using tape to show the final location, cutting the tape to allow installation. By doing this, you can line the graphic up perfectly by matching up the tape as a guide.

Never overlap more than one layer of laminate as this can cause a tripping hazard. Round corners and seal the edges, especially if mechanical cleaning will be employed.

Tiled and laminate floors

panoRama Walk & Wall is a diverse product suitable for a almost any indoor flat floor or wall surface.

Tiled and laminate floors are typical in shops and offices. Make sure you remove dust and lint, then clean the floor with good detergent and water. There are a variety of industrial-grade mopping systems designed to make this process easy. After this, wipe it down with isopropyl alcohol.

Prepare an area larger than the graphic to make sure you’ve cleaned everywhere you need to and allow the surface to dry completely before application.

Carpet floor

Vacuum thoroughly to remove as much dust and lint as you can. Try to avoid getting the area wet as it needs to be dry before application. Tacky rollers can help further remove lint and loose particles from the surface.

Use a print media with an ‘aggressive adhesive’ as this will help keep the graphic attached the the carpet surface. Make sure you press down the edges again once applied to ensure they are down tight. Edges that curl can cause tripping, which is something everyone wants to avoid.

FloorShark® 170TFG Textured Floor Graphic Polyester Film — FloorShark® 170TFG is a textured floor graphic polyester film designed for carpet and a variety of other flat surfaces.

Asphalt and concrete

Brush off all the loose dirt and stones from the area. If you wash with water, make sure the area is completely dry before application and that the ambient temperature is at least 50°F. Make sure to use floor graphic media that’s designed for outdoor surfaces.

We recommend Alumigraphics GRIP for longer-term outdoor floor graphic applications and Mactac StreetTRAX™ or IMAGin® StreetRAP™ for short to medium-term applications.

Mactac StreetTRAX features 2 month outdoor durability and is designed for gritty surfaces.

Mactac PERMACOLOR® FloorGRIP PF6600 is our recommended laminate for indoor and outdoor inkjet media. Be sure to read the manufacturers recommendations because some inkjet media does not require an overlaminate

With the right material and installation, your new floor graphic is going to look amazing. With a little care, your floor graphic will look great for ages to come.

Perfecting Surface Prep Before Wrapping a Vehicle

December 14, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Are you ready to wrap?

Vehicle wraps are a great way to advertise a business or add flair to a plain-looking car, van, or truck. A very important part in beginning the process is preparing the surface. The last thing you want is a shoddy-looking finish for your vehicle wrap or a small particle of dirt to disturb the adhesion process. Here are the simple and straightforward steps to get your vehicle prepared.

Step 1: Overall General Cleaning

Your vehicle needs a general overall clean with basic mild soap and water. All wax and debris must be removed from the surface. Hand washing is the best method. Use a microfiber cloth with a mixture of a general dish soap mixed in a large bucket of water.

Step 2: Cracks and Corners

Pay extra attention to those cracks and corners when cleaning the surface. This will help the wrap to adhere properly when all those little faults are scrubbed and smoothed out.

Missing a fault can cause the wrap adhesive to fail, which then costs even more time and money to get it right. Take the time to thoroughly go over the entire surface to avoid costly errors or having to start the process again.

Step 3: Cleaning Solution

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the entire surface, a cleaning solution should be applied. Mix equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water to make the solution. Spray directly onto the surface and immediately wipe with a lint-free cloth. This solution completely cleans the surface of soap, water, or any remaining dirt.

Step 4: Dry

Using another microfiber cloth, it is now time to dry the surface completely. It’s a good idea to take the time needed to dry all over the vehicle. Once your vehicle is totally dry, you’re all set to wrap.

Follow these simple and easy steps to prepare your vehicle for a sleek wrap that hugs all the curves and corners without any lumps or bumps. This is a time-consuming job, but it will be well worth it for the finished product. Cutting corners, such as not making sure the vehicle surface is completely clean, will result in the wrap not adhering properly to the surface.

How to Care for Your Vehicle Wrap

December 6, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

If you’ve invested in a vinyl wrap for your vehicle, you need to know how to care for it the right way. Insufficient maintenance can mean your wrap, over time, will deteriorate or degrade which is the last thing you want.

Here are some tips on how to care for your wrap and keep it looking like it’s brand new:

Cleaning the car

Dirt and acid are a vinyl wrap’s two worst enemies, so make sure your car is kept clean.
Don’t use brush type automatic car washes. They are too harsh and will rub or chip away your wrap.
Hand washing is the recommended method for keeping your car clean.
Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth and a mild cleaning solution.
Wash your car at least once a week, more if you notice it has become dirty.
Rinse off dirt using low-pressure water. No power hoses!
Soak stubborn dirt for a few minutes before wiping clean. Don’t use any abrasive scrubbing methods.
Rinse thoroughly.
Let the car air dry, or you can dry it off using a microfibre cloth, do not use a heat drying method.

Sun exposure

Prolonged exposure to the sun can fade and degrade your wrap.
Keep your vehicle out of sunlight when not in use.
Use a garage or covered driveway to park your car in at home.
If you don’t have a covered area, use a tarp to cover your car on sunny days.
When out and about, park in sheltered or in shaded areas.

Waxing

Most standard vinyl wrap can be polished using wax of high quality.
Don’t use any polishes that are abrasive or that contain any cutting compounds.

Perforated window film

If you have perforated window film, make sure you do not:

Open the windows.
Use heating or defrosting elements.
Use windshield wipers.

By taking care of your vinyl wrap the right way, you can ensure that you get to enjoy it for the maximum time possible and stop it from degrading even when exposed to dirt and pollutants. Regular maintenance and cleaning will have your vehicle looking like it just rolled off the showroom floor and keep heads turning when you drive on by!