Fitting Guide ...

Boat graphics

Firstly ensure that the panels are clean, (free from dust, wax, grease etc.), and try to avoid working in extremely hot, cold or windy conditions. If large vinyls are to be fitted, it may help if two people work together. You can either fit the vinyl wet or dry, (see below.) Wet application should mainly be used on larger items, or if you are new to the process. (The water helps to make repositioning easier.) Dry application is quicker, but much more care must be taken to avoid air-bubbles etc appearing in the vinyl.



WET APPLICATION:

Firstly moisten the panel, either using a spray-bottle or sponge/non-fluffy cloth etc. (a very slight amount of mild washing-up liquid can be added if required, though it's not normally essential.)

DRY APPLICATION: No need for any the above!



Carefully remove the vinyl graphics by lifting up the 'application tape' from the 'silicon release paper backing', (making sure that all the vinyl decals are lifted up with it), avoiding finger marks on the vinyl itself. Larger sheets may need two people to work together. One to hold the application tape/graphics by two corners, and the other to carefully peel back the white, glossy silicon backing paper. When it's nearly all removed the second person should then take hold of the remaining two corners of the tape/graphics. It can now be taken over to the boat, keeping it taut as you go, and avoiding fabrics, clothing etc., otherwise dust and fluff can be attracted to the static of the vinyl. (Note: If any parts of the graphic refuses to lift, simply place the whole graphic (still on its backing) on a firm surface and rub over the 'application tape' with your finger nail to press the section back against the silicon paper.



Tack the graphics gently on the panel, using a tape measure at this point if required. If it needs repositioning, quickly pull it off and try again.



Once you are happy with the positioning, start to flatten it to the surface using a plastic squeegee, firm credit card or a cloth. It may help if you hold the vinyl slightly away from the surface as you proceed. Working from the centre outwards, press down the vinyl pushing the water/air out towards the edges. If using the 'wet' method, try to avoid letting the vinyl slide about as you are working.



The boat should be left as long as possible before taking to water, to allow the adhesive time to 'cure', especially if fitted using the 'wet application' method. Please do not wash or polish boat panel for at least one week.
(Thereafter, normal washing can be done, but care must always be taken, especially with dusters and sponges, around the decal edges.) If using a steam-cleaner, always keep the nozzle a reasonable distance away from the graphics, and preferably point it directly at them [90 degrees] - rather than on an angle. (This helps to prevent water from being forced sideways under the vinyl at full force.)



Once fitted, check for any water/air bubbles. If they won't push out, use a pin or scalpel blade to carefully pop them, then squeeze out the water/air. (Note: It's always best to prick one edge of the bubble, rather than the centre. You can then push the water/air out towards the pinhole.)

Job done!








Notes on removal of old self-adhesive vinyl: Use an electric heat gun or hot hair dryer to gently warm the vinyl to be removed, taking care not to overheat any glass or painted surfaces etc. Carefully lift one corner of the vinyl, using a blade or window-scraper etc., and peel away the vinyl. Repeat on all required sections until completely removed. Any slight glue residue left behind can easily be removed using a 'Tar and Glue Remover', (which is available from most car accessory shops), or white spirit.
Important: Please take care when using the extremely hot heat guns, especially where glass, paintwork and other similar surfaces are concerned. They are quite safe and efficient to use, providing care is taken. Always hold the heat gun 'well away' from the surface, and your own hands, while you work. Just enough warmth to allow the vinyl to be softened is all that is necessary. Always handle heat guns with care and keep them away from children. Also always allow them time to cool down afterwards before storing away.



These instructions, as well as any others on this site, are merely intended as a guide to fitting our various products. Although we endeavour to be as efficient as possible with our instructions, and include as many details as we can, we cannot be held responsible for any problems, damages or indeed injuries, which might occur. As with all DIY projects, the person or persons carrying out the work is/are held responsible. [Terms and Conditions]