Floor graphics can be a great way to label entrances and exits in large buildings or for event directional signage. But how do you apply them and keep them looking good?
The first step is ensuring the application surface is clean, dry, and smooth. It is also important to avoid dragging or running heavy objects over your floor decals, as they are not designed to endure that kind of abuse.
Preparation
Exterior floor graphics are a great way to boost the impact of your marketing campaigns, and they’re not just for businesses with retail spaces. They also work well for office buildings, schools, airports, and other public spaces. However, like all forms of advertising and marketing, there are specific preparations needed to ensure that the graphics will be installed successfully.
The most important thing is that the surface where the graphics will be applied needs to be thoroughly cleaned. A surface that’s covered in dust, dirt, and other contaminants will prevent the adhesive from adhering to it properly, causing the decals to slip and ultimately fall off.
It’s recommended that you use a multi-surface cleaner to thoroughly clean the area where the graphics will be applied. Make sure the cleaner you choose is safe to use on the type of flooring your facility has, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. After cleaning the area, it’s best to dry it off with a lint-free towel. This will help to remove any grease or oil that couldn’t be removed with the cleaning supplies you used, which will further prevent the adhesive from bonding to the flooring.
Another important step is to check for any cracks or bumps on the floor where you’re applying the graphic. Cracks and bumps can cause the adhesive to pull away from the flooring, leaving you with a decal that’s not fully adhered to and is easily damaged by rain, snow, or thawing ice.
Once the surface has been cleaned and checked for cracks, it’s time to prime it. A primer is essential for a long-lasting, high-quality finish on any floor, and it’s especially crucial for outdoor applications where the decals will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. It’s recommended that you use Meon UniPrime X850, which has a fast drying time and can be applied by roller. After priming, wait for 10-15 minutes before applying the graphic. It’s also a good idea to find the center of the graphic and mark it with tape before applying it to ensure that your finished product will be centered.
Installation
Floor graphics are a creative way to draw attention and convey your brand message. Whether you choose to use them for directional signage in busy areas or to show your humor and gratitude, they are sure to catch the eye of passersby.
When it comes to applying floor graphics, preparation is key. First, clean the surface with a multi-purpose cleaner to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. Once the floor is dry, wipe it down again with a lint-free paper towel. This will help ensure the graphic adheres properly and the surface is free of any moisture, grit, or cracks that could compromise its long-term durability.
Next, it’s important to select a graphic media that can conform to rough or uneven surfaces and offers high-tack adhesive. Drytac Polar Street FX is a great choice for this type of application, and it provides up to five years of indoor/outdoor durability. It’s also suitable for a wide range of interior and exterior surfaces, including rough brick walls.
Once you’ve selected the right media and cleaned the floor, find the center of your graphic and mark it with tape. Then, remove the backing film and carefully apply the vinyl to the floor, smoothing it with a squeegee. Be sure to avoid tile edges and grout lines, as these are more likely to let in air bubbles that can damage the decal’s appearance and shorten its lifespan.
If you’re installing a floor graphic in a busy area, it’s often best to apply it with the aid of a squeegee. This will ensure optimal pressure and a smooth, air pocket-free final product. It’s also a good idea to use a squeegee when applying wall graphics as well, as these tend to lift in corners or near doorways.
For maximum durability, choosing a graphic medium with the strongest adhesive and matte protection is also important. This will prevent the surface of the vinyl from becoming harmed by UV rays, rain, or ice. In addition, if you’re installing the decal in a public area, consider choosing a product with GREENGUARD Gold certification to reduce VOC emissions and contribute to healthier indoor air quality.
Removal
Floor graphics are used in many different ways and in various environments. Some are applied to wood surfaces, outdoor concrete sidewalks, and indoor sealed concrete floors. Others are found on vinyl and tile and even on low-pile carpets. When using these types of decals on rough surface materials, it is important to consider the substrate and how the graphic will be utilized before making a purchase. This will help ensure that the graphic holds up to its intended use and will last for the intended duration.
The first step is to make sure that the surface to which the graphic will be adhered is free of cracks, chips, or missing sections. It also needs to be clean and dry. Using a multi-purpose cleaner with a lint-free cloth is ideal. The surface should be cleaned until it is completely dry before the application of the graphics.
Once the surface is dry, the squeegee can be used to apply the graphics. Doing this from the center outward with short overlapping strokes is recommended to avoid air pockets. It is also important not to install the graphics over grout lines or other areas that could cause a trip hazard.
Depending on the application, other tools, such as a straight edge and a roller, may be helpful in applying the graphics. Consult with the print manufacturer or distributor about specific installation guidelines, certifications, and recommendations for the intended surface is always a good idea.
For the best adhesion to a rough surface, some manufacturers offer special water-based adhesives that do not harm the ground when removed. These products may cost a bit more but are a great option for some applications. They also allow for quicker removal and do not leave a sticky residue behind. In addition, water-based adhesives are safe for most flooring materials, including stone and marble, if a special formulation is used to make sure that the adhesive does not penetrate deep into the surface. This is especially important for rough surfaces where a more durable and long-lasting graphic is desired.
Maintenance
Floor graphics are designed for long-term use, so they need to be maintained regularly to ensure they remain in excellent condition. This helps prevent damage, such as scratches and rips, which can cause trip or slip hazards. It also allows you to identify and repair any problems, such as fading or deterioration of the adhesive.
How and where you maintain your graphic will largely determine its lifespan. If you place it outside, exposure to the elements is likely to reduce its lifespan and increase maintenance requirements. However, with careful planning, you can extend the life of your exterior floor decal by installing it on an appropriate surface and executing proper installation techniques.
For example, when you’re applying a graphic to an outdoor wood or concrete floor, the surface should be smooth and free of cracks. If there are any cracks, fill them in with an appropriate material to avoid water seepage that can damage the graphic and create a trip or slip hazard.
Additionally, the surface should be dry to ensure that there’s nothing between the adhesive and the floor. To ensure this, wipe the floor with a clean, lint-free paper towel or cloth that’s been dipped in rubbing alcohol (free of lotions and other oily residues) to remove any dirt or contaminants on the surface.
If you’re using a vinyl base film that pairs with a cast or calendared PVC overlaminate, for safety reasons, it’s recommended to pair the overlaminate with a UL 410 slip-resistant rating. Additionally, it’s important to apply a layer of wax to your floor graphic shortly after application and keep it, along with the rest of your floors, waxed routinely.
It’s also critical to ensure that you don’t cover any temperature relief channels on your asphalt or concrete floor, as covering these will likely cause the floor to crack and harm the graphic underneath. Additionally, you should avoid installing your floor graphics in areas where condensation often forms, as this can damage the overlaminate.