7 Myths About Wall Decals, Vinyl and Surface Graphics

Myth 1

mythology: Wall stickers are stickers

reality: No. “True” wall stickers are cut from vinyl. Vinyl is a synthetic material that looks like a thin plastic, but not plastic. On the front of the decal is a backing paper and low adhesive tape. It is so thin that it looks like a hand-drawn.

Vinyl is self-adhesive, much thinner than stickers, can withstand heat, and can be used to adhere properly to surfaces. The sticker just bubbles, but vinyl likes heat and outlines the surface.

The sticker is on the sheet, peel off the corner of the design, peel it off from the backing paper, and paste it on another side. Basically, stickers are printed on paper with glue. This paper may be glossy or it may be coated with plastic. It can be made of vinyl, but it is much thicker and doesn't look like a hand drawing. In general, stickers look cheaper and temporarily than true decals.

Myth 2

mythology: Decals are for walls only

reality: No. In fact, decals are best applied to the hardest and most flat surfaces possible. They love drywall, glass, formica, painted wood, steel and plastic. Can be applied to painted plaster [may need heat to aid application], and will never work on stucco and brick surfaces.

In fact, decals and surface graphics can be applied to any surface you imagine as long as they fit the above. Try putting a decal on the ceiling! floor! refrigerator! Filing cabinet! Reception desk! Decals and surface graphics work on many surfaces.

Myth 3

mythology: Wall stickers and surface graphics are as easy as peel and stick.

reality: No, it is not. Wall stickers have backing paper and low adhesive tape. These are useful for applying pre-spaced characters and designs to a surface. You need to follow the instructions, work slowly, and often require two sets of hands to complete the application. However, once applied, it is definitely worth the effort !!!!

Myth 4

mythology: The surface graphic will ruin the paint.

reality: Well, it ’s always difficult when it comes to painting. If the paint application is inadequate or old, it will ruin anything, not just decals. Bubbling paint can be lifted by simply holding your hand, so you don't have to worry about anything.

It is always recommended to use heat to remove decals or surface graphics. Heat loosens the adhesive, making it easy to remove the vinyl. If the paint is good from the start, it will survive even if the graphic is placed on the surface.

Myth 5

mythology: Decals can only be used internally.

reality: Decals and surface graphics can be used on the inside and outside. The rule is that decals do not stick to rough surfaces. Therefore, if you try to apply it to the rough outer surface, no, you probably won't stick. However, it will absolutely work if the decal is affixed to the outside of a garden shed, or if the decal is applied as a function to an outdoor patio. Exposure to UV, rain, and other environmental factors is no problem for vinyl for up to 7 years [depending on the level of exposure].

Mythic six

mythology: Wall stickers can be rearranged.

reality: No it is not. Many companies argue that this is the case, but to be precise, we are not responsible otherwise. It is very convenient for those companies. You have already paid your money for something you think will re-attach, and it does not.

Decals are made of adhesive vinyl. A good decal is made of very thin vinyl. So if you can imagine lifting a very thin sticker from a hard surface, it will most certainly break a] where you picked it at the corner to lift it, and b] where it lifts and extends from a hard surface. In addition, because some of the adhesive remains on the surface, it will not stick very long when you next apply a stretched and damaged decal.

The Cool Art Vinyl team knows them. When purchasing wall stickers or surface graphics, consider purchasing a single application. Never be disappointed.

Myth Seven

mythology: The decal looks like a hand-painted mural and design on the surface.

reality: To the right! Well-made decals are absolutely wonderful as decoration items. In general, they are low-cost and outperform the price of someone painting or calligraphy on the wall by hand. We regularly compare with painters and the price is one-third if not half of the competition.

For other questions, questions, and discussions about decals, vinyl, and surface graphics, try the FAQ section at www.coolartvinyl.com.au.