How to Ensure Wall Decals Stay Securely in Place

Have you ever wondered how to keep wall decals stuck to your walls for an extended period? This article will guide you through the essential steps and conditions to achieve this goal. We will cover cleaning the surface, choosing the right wall, temperature and humidity considerations, and additional tips that can help ensure your decals remain in place.

Preparing the Surface for Decals

The key to long-lasting wall decals is preparing the surface correctly. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the wall using a mild detergent or rubbing alcohol to remove any dust, grease, and oils. Ensure the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

Selecting the Right Wall Surface

Not all walls are created equal when it comes to decal adhesion. Smooth, flat surfaces are the most suitable. Textured walls or freshly painted surfaces should be avoided, as these can affect the adhesion. Wait at least two weeks after painting to allow the paint to fully dry and outgas.

Temperature and Humidity

Decals should be applied in a moderate temperature and humidity environment. Extreme heat or moisture can compromise the adhesion. It’s important to apply decals in a controlled environment to ensure optimal results.

Proper Application Techniques

The application technique plays a crucial role in the adhesion of wall decals. When applying decals, use a squeegee or a credit card to smooth out air bubbles and ensure good contact with the wall. Apply firm pressure, especially around the edges, to ensure the decal adheres properly.

Once the decal is in place, allow it to set for several hours before touching or moving it. This will give the adhesive time to bond effectively. Additionally, avoid exposing the decals to moisture, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where moisture can weaken the adhesive.

Securing Decals with Extra Adhesive

If the decals do not adhere well, consider using extra adhesive. A spray adhesive or double-sided tape can provide additional support and help ensure the decal stays in place.

Additional Considerations

Several factors must be considered to ensure the optimal adhesion of wall decals:

The wall must be clean. Dust, environmental contamination, skin oils, childhood trauma (e.g., crayons), and other residues should be removed with appropriate cleaning agents that do not further contaminate the surface. A simple water and rubbing alcohol solution (about 3/4 water and 1/4 alcohol) is effective.

The wall must be dry. Clean it one day and let the cleaning solution dry and outgas overnight to ensure a clean, dry surface.

The paint should be receptive, possessing enough surface energy for the adhesive system to bond effectively. Modern low or no VOC paints may have lower surface energy and be more challenging to bond to. Test with a sample of the material to determine if it will adhere properly. A two-week test is recommended. If the edges of the sample start to loosen, it may require a better-quality decal.

The surface should be smooth. Gloss or semi-gloss paint surfaces are preferable. Rough spots should be scraped off. For textured walls, specialized products with thicker adhesive and a more conformable nature are available. Some of these products can be rated for outdoor exposure on brick, concrete, and stucco walls when properly applied.

The decal material should not react with the environment, which can lead to shrinkage or other reactions. Ensure the material is compatible with the environment.

Edges, seams, and corners should be firmly squeegeed. Use a soft-edged buffered squeegee or a special wall roller to conform the material to the surface. Applying heat in these areas will accelerate bonding and conformability.

Select the appropriate decal material based on the above parameters. While self-adhesive film products were easier to apply in the past, modern requirements demand more careful selection and application to ensure success.

By following these detailed steps and considerations, you can significantly increase the chances of your wall decals staying securely in place for an extended period.