Thorough preparation is the key to successful and long lasting results!

Preparation of a surface prior to applying vinyl is essential. Two kinds of surface contamination have to be removed: petrochemical (oil and gas residues, smoke films and polymer finishes)
A single solvent such as alcohol, denatured or isopropyl, is not 100% effective, but useable if another remover is not handy. Stronger solvents, like reducers, thinners, acetone, etc., can damage the graphics and should be avoided.
Be as thorough as possible when cleaning any surface. The few extra seconds needed will save unnecessary problems.

Layout and Position

Use the correct guidelines, then measure twice and apply once!

After determining the correct position on your graphic (remember, measure, measure, measure) use the hinge method to suspend the graphic above the desired area prior to the actual application. Use a separate piece of 3/4 inch masking tape. Use small pieces of tape to position your graphic in the desired location and then run a piece of masking the full length of the graphic from left to right.

Wet and Dry Techniques

Experienced installers usually prefer dry application when conditions are favorable. Dry is definitely preferred with small letters or components, with striping and on compound curves or textured surfaces. Use the wet application when the surface is very hot or the substrate has a lot of static build up or when the condition is windy or the graphic too large to handle alone.

To apply dry: After the graphic is hinged into place, lift up the entire graphic and remove the slick paper backing from the graphic and gently lay it down on the surface. Squeegee the graphic down firmly with a commercial squeegee, a credit card or your fingers. Remove your hinge masking tape and then carefully peel the top masking away from the graphic. Watch for loose edges and re burnish before proceeding with the pull.

To apply wet: After the graphic is hinged into place, lift up the entire graphic and spray the area underneath with water or water and a little alcohol. Remove the slick paper backing from the graphic and gently lay it down on the surface. Squeegee the graphic down firmly with a commercial squeegee, a credit card or your fingers. Spray the mask. Allow the penetrating action of the water to soften the latex (30 - 90 seconds depending on the humidity). Re-squeegee the mask. Remove your hinge tape. Carefully remove the top masking. If the graphic or letters do not adhere to the substrate surface, lay the masking back down, re-squeegee and wait a few minutes before attempting to remove the masking.

Conclusion

Do a final, quick inspection of your application. Give special attention to edges, tips and points; be sure they are tacked down. Clean the surrounding area of the substrate to remove smudges, fluid runoff, etc.