Wall graphics are a perfect way to spruce up an office space, retail store front, bar or cafe, school classroom, or any room in your home. Graphics span from large murals covering entire walls to decals embellishing a specific area. However, given the countless different types of wall paint and textures of wall surfaces, it’s important to know how to install your wall graphics given the texture and finish of your walls.
Here’s a simple guide to install your wall graphics seamlessly. If you still need some help or would like us to do the heavy lifting for you, reach out. Our team will manage your wall graphics projects from design to installation.
Understanding Wall Graphics Materials
Before diving into surface preparation, it’s crucial to understand the types of wall graphics materials available. The most common types include:
- Vinyl Decals: Made from thin, flexible vinyl that adheres to walls using a pressure-sensitive adhesive.
- Wall Murals: Large-scale graphics often printed on vinyl or fabric, designed to cover significant wall areas.
- Wall Wraps: Similar to wall murals but usually encompass entire rooms or large surfaces with a continuous graphic design.
Each material may have specific requirements for surface preparation, so always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Surface Assessment
The first step in surface preparation is assessing the wall’s condition. Here’s what to look for:
- Surface Type: Identify whether the wall is painted, bare drywall, plaster, concrete, brick, or wood.
- Surface Texture: Smooth, semi-smooth, and rough textures can affect adhesion. Vinyl typically adheres best to smooth surfaces.
- Cleanliness: Dirt, dust, grease, and other contaminants can prevent graphics from sticking.
- Damage: Cracks, holes, and peeling paint need to be addressed before installation.
- Paint Characteristics: Identify the type of paint used on the wall. Terms like low/no VOC, washable, scrubbable, and anti-stain indicate the paint may be engineered to resist adhesion.
Identifying paint is no easy task. Depending on where you’re applying your graphics—in a company office, brick and mortar business, or your own home—hopefully a can of leftover paint is stored in the cupboard.
Cleaning the Surface
Cleaning is a critical step in surface preparation. Follow these steps for a thorough clean:
- Dust and Debris: Start by dusting the wall with a dry cloth or a duster to remove loose dirt and cobwebs.
- Wash the Wall: Use a mild detergent solution (water mixed with a few drops of dish soap) and a sponge to wash the wall. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface.
- Rinse: Wipe down the wall with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry: Allow the wall to dry completely before proceeding. Use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process if necessary.
Repairing Surface Imperfections
Imperfections can compromise the adhesion of wall graphics. Here’s how to repair common issues:
- Cracks and Holes: Fill small cracks and holes with spackling paste. For larger repairs, use joint compound or plaster.
- Sanding: Once the filler is dry, sand the area smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. Remove dust with a tack cloth.
- Peeling Paint: Scrape off any loose or peeling paint, then sand the edges smooth. Prime any exposed areas.
Priming and Painting
Priming and painting may be necessary, especially if:
- The wall has never been painted.
- The wall colour might show through the graphic.
- The wall surface is porous or heavily textured.
Priming
- Choose the Right Primer: Use a high-quality primer suitable for the wall type (e.g., drywall, concrete, wood). Consider primers that are specifically designed to improve adhesion, especially if the wall has low/no VOC paint or other resistant finishes. Some paint shops will carry a primer and/or adhesion promoter that will specifically aid your graphic in sticking securely to the wall. Most of these products will not change the colour of the wall (great if you need to remove the graphic down the line), and create a barrier between the paint and your graphic.
- Application: Apply a thin, even coat using a roller or brush. Allow it to dry completely.
Painting
- Paint Type: Use a latex paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. Avoid matte finishes as they may hinder adhesion.
- Cure Time: Allow the paint to cure for at least two weeks. Freshly painted surfaces need ample time to harden and off-gas. Be sure to check when your wall was last painted. Some paints take up to 30 days to fully cure and set.
Special Considerations for Different Surfaces
Different wall surfaces require unique preparation techniques:
- Drywall: Ensure it’s clean, smooth, and primed. Sand down any joint compound ridges.
- Plaster: Repair cracks and holes, and ensure the surface is smooth and dust-free.
- Concrete/Brick: Fill in any gaps or uneven areas with mortar. Clean thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
- Wood: Sand to a smooth finish and remove any splinters or rough patches. Prime and paint if necessary.
Tools and Materials Needed
Gather the following tools and materials before starting your surface preparation:
- Dust cloths and duster
- Mild detergent and sponge
- Clean water and bucket
- Spackling paste, joint compound, or plaster
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Scraper
- High-quality primer
- Latex paint (satin or semi-gloss finish)
- Paint rollers, brushes, and trays
- Fan or dehumidifier (optional)
Tips for a Professional Finish
- Test a Small Area: Before applying the entire graphic, test a small section to ensure proper adhesion.
- Use a Level: Ensure graphics are applied straight by using a level or laser guide.
- Work in Sections: For large graphics, work in manageable sections to avoid misalignment.
- Squeegee Out Air Bubbles: Use a squeegee to smooth out air bubbles during application.
- Seek Expert Advice: Visit a local paint supply store for primers or adhesion promoters designed for challenging surfaces. From there, reach out to the First Display team who can manage your wall graphics project from design to installation. We have you covered!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Bubbles: Use a pin to puncture and smooth out trapped air.
- Peeling Edges: Ensure the wall is clean and dry. Apply extra pressure to the edges during installation.
- Poor Adhesion: Re-clean the wall and check for paint curing time. Consider a different primer or adhesive.
Preparing surfaces for wall graphics is a meticulous process, but the results are worth the effort. A well-prepared wall ensures your graphics look professional, last longer, and maintain their vibrant appearance. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll achieve a flawless finish that transforms your space.