Installing Large Interior Wall Graphics
Today, printed interior wall graphics are gradually taking over paint and wallpaper
due to their ease of application and removal, customizability and even profitability.
Most zero or low VOC paints have many additives that prevent adhesive from sticking to it.
That’s why it’s necessary to conduct tests to ensure that the surface can be wrapped.
Before starting a wall project, make sure that you watch
our WrapItRight video on ‘Testing a Wall for Media Compatibility’.
Have your application tools ready: a Felt Squeegee or a Wrap Mafia Bill Collector,
Snap-Off Blades and high tack masking tape.
Make sure your work site equipment is also set; a scaffold, ladder or scissor lift,
laser level, screwdriver and brushes to dust off crevices.
It is vitally important to make sure that all graphic panels for the job are properly
prepared offsite.
For details on this preparation see the WrapItRight video on ‘Tiling Large Wall Graphics’.
In this example, we are installing on a free standing wall with no ceilings or adjacent
walls.
This wall has already been cleaned and cleared of spider webs, removable obstructions and
is ready for application.
Carefully measure and mark the position of the inside edge of the first tile.
Using a laser level to ensure plumb apply masking tape markers on the outside of this
line every few feet.
This will serve as your guide for installing the first tile.
Align the inner edge of the first time with these markers.
Then, anchor the top with the high tack masking tape and let the graphic hang loose.
Line up the first tile with your guides.
Remove the 2 inch strip of release liner and squeegee from the center out.
Next, remove the release liner above this anchor point and apply.
Work from top to bottom, peeling the liner in 2 feet increments.
Squeegee from the center out.
[Uplifting Music]
For the next tile, apply masking tape on the top two corners and with it hanging loose,
line up the registration marks made of blue masking tape.
For this project, a quarter inch overlap was used and excess material has been trimmed.
Have somebody help you check the alignment of the remaining blue tape and adjust when
necessary.
Once the alignment is set, remove the 2 inch strip of liner and apply to set your permanent
anchor.
Install the same way as the first tile—apply the section above the anchor, work towards
the bottom, and squeegee from center out, 2 feet at a time.
As you work your way from top to bottom keep checking your overlap in alignment.
When you reach an obstruction such an electrical outlet, continue your standard application
until you reach the top edge.
Loosely tack the vinyl over the obstructions and make a relief cut; then carefully apply
the vinyl around the outlet.
Once the film has been set all around, trim.
After completing the wall wrap, outlet plates can be reinstalled.
Repeat until you achieve full covered and trim the excess material from the bottom and
sides.To ensure long term durability, post heat and apply firm pressure on the edges
and overlaps.
Having the right tools, media, preparation, and application technique, ensures an efficient,
safe, and profitable install.