Wall wraps on challenging surfaces

Wall wraps are gaining in popularity as effective and engaging marketing tools – they provide a clever and creative way to extend a brand’s message. On buildings, wraps are seen to be a more sustainable, safe alternative to mesh banners, and when printed with the right media will provide superior image quality. To protect your customer’s artwork and branding, here are some tips and tricks on how to install wall wraps on challenging surfaces such as concrete, masonry and tiles.

Ensure that the surface is entirely dust free. To remove surface oxidation and accumulated debris, pressure washing with 1:20 ratio of trisodium phosphate (TSP) to warm water mixture, then follow with a warm water rinse will. For more stubborn build ups, use a stiff bristle brush with the same TSP solution. Rinse with warm water rinse and allow the wall to dry for 48 hours.

Sealing the surface with a coat of paint or concrete sealer and allowing for no less than two weeks drying time will achieve the best results. An extended drying time may be needed in cold or high
humidity environments.

Note: If paint has not had the recommended time to fully cure, there will be an incomplete bond of paint to wall surface and subsequent repositioning of graphics could lift paint from the wall.

Use of a sealant provides a reliable base for installation. It will also help with removal as the adhesive (as well as adhesive residue) will strip off more cleanly.

To achieve the highest adhesion:

• Align the graphic at the top and hinge apply masking tape to secure the top edge of graphics.

• Remove liner from graphics and loosely tack on graphic to wall.

• Preheat film to a minimum of 100ºC prior to rolling on the wall using 2-3-inch high density rubber roller horizontally across the wall side to side.

Application Restrictions:

• Avoid excessively deep sharp grout lines. As the film will be punctured during installation and lift prematurely. Acceptable grout lines are uniform, smooth and less than 1/8 inch deep.

• Very rough trowelled surfaces or sharp stucco will tend to puncture graphics during installation.

• Avoid using butt seams to panel graphics. It is highly recommended to overlap panels with an overlap of at least 1/4 inch to accommodate for any shrinkage that may occur.

• Edge seal of graphic is recommended for high moisture environment.

Maintenance:

Using a low pressure, warm water and simple green (1:1) mixture wash will keep the graphics clean and remove contamination that might stain the surface. Do not exceed 1300 psi and maintain an angle of spray no shallower than 60 degrees vertically or horizontally. Power washing should start from the centre of the graphics and move outward. If necessary use a soft sponge to remove debris that remain adhered to
the surface.

Removal:

Heat assist or remove on a warm day.

Article inspired by Arlon.com (Technical Tip #36)