INSTALL GUIDE
How To Apply Your Decals
Two ways to put your vinyl on — dry for small pieces like USDOT numbers, wet for big lettering you want to slide into place. Follow the steps and you will get a clean, bubble-free result that lasts for years.
A free squeegee comes in every order — you are ready to go.
STEP 0 · PICK YOUR METHOD
Wet or Dry?
FAST · CURES QUICKER
Dry Method
Stick straight to the surface. Grabs fast and cures quickly — but you get one shot at placement.
- USDOT & MC number sets
- Small lettering & single lines
- Anything under ~12 inches
FORGIVING · SLIDE TO ADJUST
Wet Method
A thin layer of soapy water lets the decal float so you can slide it perfectly straight before it sets.
- Long company names & big graphics
- Large flat panels & doors
- Anyone nervous about placement
BEFORE YOU START
What You Need & When To Do It
Your Kit
- Squeegee (in your box)
- Clean microfiber cloth
- Tape measure
- Spray bottle (wet method)
- Pin or needle
- Rubbing alcohol (70%)
- Masking / painter’s tape
- Level (or a phone app)
- A drop of dish soap
- Paper towel
Right Conditions
- 50–90°F (10–32°C). Vinyl will not stick well when it is cold.
- Out of direct sun. A hot panel makes the vinyl grab too early.
- Clean & dry surface. Wax, dirt or road film = peeling later.
- No wind for large pieces. Work in a garage if you can.
- 1
Clean the surface
Wash the door, then wipe it down with rubbing alcohol and let it dry fully. No wax, no film.
- 2
Position & level it
Hold the decal (still on its backing) where you want it. Check it is straight with a level, then run a strip of tape across the top edge to make a hinge.
- 3
Make the hinge
Flip the decal up on the tape hinge and peel the paper backing off the back. The letters stay stuck to the clear transfer tape.
- 4
Lay it down & squeegee
Lower it slowly from the hinge. Squeegee from the center outward in firm, overlapping strokes to push the air out as you go.
- 5
Peel the transfer tape
Pull the clear tape back low and slow at a sharp angle (almost flat against the surface). If a letter lifts, lay it back and squeegee again.
- 6
Final press
Go over everything once more with the squeegee. Lay a paper towel over the edge to protect the vinyl.
Tip: Measure twice. The dry method grabs fast — once a letter touches down, it is staying there.
- 1
Mix the solution
Fill a spray bottle with water and add 2–3 drops of dish soap. Shake. That is it — do not overdo the soap.
- 2
Clean, then mist
Clean the surface with alcohol as above. Then lightly mist the surface with your soapy water.
- 3
Peel & wet the decal
Remove the paper backing (letters stay on the transfer tape) and mist the sticky side too. The water stops it grabbing early.
- 4
Float it into place
Set it on the wet surface. Because it is wet you can slide and nudge it until it is perfectly straight and level. Take your time.
- 5
Squeegee the water out
Firm strokes from the center outward, pushing water and air to the edges. Repeat until nothing moves under the vinyl.
- 6
Wait, then peel the tape
Give it 5–10 minutes to tack up, then peel the clear transfer tape back low and slow. Final squeegee and wipe dry.
Tip: Got a wrinkle in a big piece? Peel back to the wrinkle, re-float, and squeegee again — the water makes it easy to fix.
Aftercare
- Do not wash it for 24–48 hours (up to 72h for wet) — let the glue cure.
- No pressure washer on the edges for the first week.
- Full bond in ~48–72 hours. After that it is on for the long haul.
- Hand wash and it will stay sharp for years.
If Something Is Off
- Small bubble? Prick one edge with a pin and push the air out.
- Letter lifts with the tape? Lay it back, squeegee harder, peel slower and flatter.
- Will not stick? Too cold or a dirty surface — warm it gently and re-clean.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Stuck? Just Call Us.
Bought from Trucker Signs? Your free squeegee is in the box. If a decal is fighting you, call or text and we will walk you through it.
224.400.09505100 Newport Dr #9, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008Mon–Fri 11 AM – 5 PM