Installing floor graphics is fun! If applied properly. Increase your joyous satisfaction meter with these 12 helpful treasures:
Smooth, Hard Surfaces
• Wash surfaces with soap and water without cleaning chemicals so the graphics won’t lift.
• Use removable acrylic adhesives that stick flat so edges resist water, which causes lifting.
• Include a laminate so graphics aren’t scratched or washed off if floors are cleaned with machines or abrasive chemicals.
Textured, Hard Surfaces
• On asphalt, brick, stucco, or concrete, brush the surface with a broom or paintbrush and use a damp cloth to rid of excess debris. Avoid washing with liquids because moisture will hold and the application can fail if damp.
• For temporary applications, use removable acrylic adhesive, or water-based. Most have glass/sand coatings as a non-slip surface.
• For permanent applications, choose vinyl or aluminum media, which is flexible and conforms well indoors or outdoors, and apply anti-skid laminate on top. For parking lots, use a solvent-based adhesive to avoid lifting.
• Use a heat gun or small torch to allow media to become softer and to get into cracks and crevices. Also, use a roller wheel tool to help push deeper into the surface for better hold.
Carpets
• Before application, rid of any debris to eliminate raised areas.
• Use vinyl, film, or fabric that lays flat with a minimal lift to avoid trip hazards.
• Acrylic on a stay-flat liner is best because it gives graphics a tackiness with minimal lift.
• Choose a laminate to avoid flimsiness, causing buckling and edge lift.
• It’s easy to lift and reposition if needed, but remember, fibers are collected each time, causing less stickiness.
