Vinyl wrapping is a great way to enhance and protect surfaces, but how to get air bubbles out of vinyl can sometimes be a concern during application, disrupting the smooth finish. Fortunately, with the right techniques, you can easily remove these bubbles and restore the flawless look of your vinyl wrap. Follow this guide to learn how to fix the issue and prevent air bubbles in the future.
Tools You Will Need
- A squeegee or soft-edged card (e.g., credit card wrapped in soft cloth)
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Pin or needle
- Microfiber cloth
Steps to Remove Air Bubbles
1. Squeegee or Card To Smooth Out
- To avoid scratching the vinyl surface when pressing outward towards its edges from within a bubble,
- Use either a squeegee or soft-edged card covered by cloth as you smooth.
- Apply consistent pressure, yet avoid overstretching or damaging the material.
2. Apply Heat
- Soften vinyl using a hair dryer or heating vinyl wrap techniques to make it more flexible. Hold the heat source at an even distance 4-6 inches away from the surface area to distribute heat evenly.
- Once warm, use either a squeegee or your fingertips to push air outward towards the edges.
- It is important to avoid overheating, which could damage the vinyl or reduce its adhesive strength and could ultimately deteriorate it.
3. Use the Pinprick Technique
- For stubborn air bubbles, use a pin or needle to puncture a small hole at the edge of each bubble and release the trapped air.
- Press down gently with fingers or a squeegee on the vinyl sheeting until flattened—being careful to avoid leaving marks or tearing the vinyl.
- Remember to be gentle so as to avoid leaving marks or tearing vinyl sheets!
4. Reheat and Smooth
- Once air has been removed from the area, add heat back in with the use of a microfiber cloth or squeegee to help the vinyl adhere to its surface more closely.
- Make use of either tool to ensure an even, bubble-free finish.
How to Prevent Air Bubbles During Application
Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Dust, grease and debris on a surface can trap air beneath vinyl flooring. Clean this area using soapy water or another suitable cleaner before drying completely before applying vinyl tiles or planks.
Work Slowly and Methodically
Peel the backing paper slowly, then apply vinyl slowly in small sections. Starting in the center and working outward, use a squeegee to press it down as you go.
Avoid stretching too much during application; this could lead to air pockets.
Use the Right Technique
Apply vinyl with even pressure while keeping in mind its delicate nature.
For large areas, consider wet application techniques using soapy water - they allow easier repositioning while decreasing chances of bubbles.
Invest in Quality Vinyl
High-grade vinyl materials are more flexible and less likely to bubble during application.
Wrapford's 4-layer PET vinyl wraps have been specifically developed for effortless application with 200 color choices available and a two-year warranty guaranteeing you get maximum value without compromising on quality.
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Final Thoughts
Air bubbles can be an issue when applying vinyl wrap, but car wrap bubbles are easily rectifiable with the appropriate strategy. Applying heat, or puncturing stubborn bubbles using techniques like the squeegee method or carefully puncturing them are effective solutions that will give a professional-looking finish. But it should be remembered that applying vinyl wrap is a delicate process; professional technicians should always be used for application to ensure optimal results while limiting any risk or issues during its implementation.
At Wrapford, our current focus is providing premium vinyl wraps while offering practical advice to remove air bubbles vinyl decal and help you achieve professional results. Stay tuned as we grow our offerings in the future!
