Decals seem like a quick and attractive way to customize your car, until you are faced with applying them. Bubbles, wrinkles and peeling edges are just a few of the issues that can make application daunting. It is possible, however, for a do-it-yourselfer to get a professional look and remove small problems such as bubbles.
A sharp-looking decal that stays adhered and lasts for years starts with proper preparation of the site. Remove any dust, dirt or grime with a gentle cleaner first and then clean the site with rubbing alcohol. This will help to ensure that the decal adheres completely to the surface. Even surfaces that appear clean should be prepared to ensure that no unseen dirt or foreign objects come between the adhesive and the surface.
Decals won't adhere well if the surface you are applying them to is too hot or cold. The ideal surface temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees. Since the surface temperature is not always the same as the outdoor temperature, pay special attention if the intended site has been in the sun or feels too hot to touch. Look for outdoor temperatures between 55 and 80 degrees. If it's hotter or colder than that outside, bring the car into a garage for several hours before application, or wait for a milder day.
There are two main methods for ensuring that your decal is positioned properly. One is to use a wet application method that allows you to move the decal around slightly after applying it, and the other is a dry method that uses tape to position the decal prior to final application. If the decal is large or must be placed with extreme precision, the wet method is a good way to go; however, you must be careful not to oversaturate the decal, as that could remove some of the adhesive. Small decals, or in cases where precise application is not crucial, are best applied using the taping method.
For wet application, spray the back of the decal and the application site with water or glass cleaner prior to application. The moisture will allow you to move the decal around on the application site for a minute or two until it is in exact position.
For dry application, attach a piece of masking or electrical tape to the top of the outer transfer film. Tape the decal to the intended site in the position where it will ultimately be placed. Lift the decal up, using the tape as a hinge, and peel the backing away starting at the top by the tape, allowing the decal to adhere as it comes back against the surface.
No matter how carefully and slowly you apply the decal, bubbles are inevitable. To remove them immediately after application, place a piece of waxed paper over the decal and run a squeegee gently over it, starting at the inside and pulling outward until the bubbles are pulled out of the edges. For bubbles that appear after the decal has been in place for a while, use a pin to pop them and then gently push the air out with your fingers.
Removing the transfer film should be the final step in the application process. If you used a dry application method, remove the film about 10 to 15 minutes after application. If you used a wet application method, wait until the decal is completely dry, or several hours, before removing the film. Pull it away gently and slowly. It will come away best at a 180-degree angle where it is folded back against itself.
