Ultraflex FabriTac is a 350gsm, textured, fabric, self-adhesive wall covering. It can be easily fitted and removed from many surfaces and re-positioned while retaining its adhesion without leaving a residue.
Let’s start by stating The Golden Rules for mounting Adhesive Fabric Graphics:
Newly painted wall surfaces are what cause 80% of problems – get that right and avoid many issues.
Just like Self Adhesive Vinyl (SAV) adhesive fabric graphics need a really clean and sound surface in order to adhere properly.
The surface:
- Must not have been recently painted (in the previous 30 days)
- Must have received at least one coat of primer before it was painted
- Must be a smooth, clean and dry indoor surface
- Must not be an 'easy clean' paint, like those that contain silicone
- Must be cleaned with a damp sponge and allowed to dry for 24 hours
There are some more guidelines below on installation technique but those surface preparations are critical to ensuring your graphic will 'take'. Please make the effort and take the time to get that aspect right.
Easy Does It
People who are accustomed to installing SAV graphics might not be aware that you use far less force and pressure on adhesive fabrics. Don’t use a squeegee, for example. Wear white gloves and use your hands and fingertips.
It’s a whole different installation technique.
Combine The Instructions With The Video
The video has no sound but makes sense once you have read the detailed instructions below. Use both in combination and you should quickly grasp the essentials of successful adhesive fabric banner installation.
There follows the full installation instruction set based on our FabriTac banner material:
Wall Surface Preparation
Pick a smooth, dry and clean internal wall surface.
- When installing FabriTac onto a standard painted wall, make sure the wall has been previously primed prior to painting. Otherwise the paint or adhesive may come off.
- Make sure you allow 30 days after painting for out gassing to prevent bubbling.
- Do not use FabriTac on a pebbly, textured surface where eggshell paint has been used or a very porous surface (i.e. brick and cement walls).
- Do not install FabriTac onto painted surfaces that contain silicone or other easy to clean paint formulations.
- Make sure all previous cleaning solutions are completely gone.
- Use a warm, damp cloth or sponge to clean the wall surface or window and allow it to completely dry.
- Install a test print onto the wall surface for 48hrs prior to the installation to check for paint and wall compatibility.
Environment
Avoid installing in areas where there is high or fluctuating humidity caused by A/C units or bright lights. Due to the fabric surface of the product this can be affected by fluctuating humidity and temperature.
Installation Technique
Due to the woven fabric nature of Fabritac and similar products you must only use light pressure when installing onto walls especially when installing landscape drops. This will help prevent the fabric from stretching and causing the adhesive to pipe off the wall surface.
NB: Many installers are used to applying SAV products which require more force to activate the adhesive (therefore use squeegees) and are often installed using water. This process is not recommended for FabriTac.
Start at the top of your Fabritac drop and pull down approximately 4-6 inches of the liner and crease the back of the liner. Simply apply the 4-6 inches of exposed adhesive area to your chosen location. It can be repositioned if there are any bubbles or wrinkles and you can lightly press or smooth them out or just peel back that area and re-apply.
If you use too much pressure especially with a felt squeegee this will cause the fabric to stretch and then pull off the wall. We have spoken to many customers who have experienced this issue especially with landscape drops or horizontal drops over 2.4 metres. Use light pressure. Work slowly, which allows the adhesive to grab and not over stress the fabric, so it fights against the adhesive which can cause piping.
Only use hands with white gloves. If you get an air bubble either pull back material and re-apply or if a small bubble, prick and apply light pressure to adhere material.
If a bubble re-appears over the next day or two, pressing and lightly rubbing can remove it. This can happen occasionally if oil, dirt, or dust is on your surface. Use a sewing pin to pop the bubble and then smooth it out with your fingers in a circular motion.
Watch this short video showing approved installation technique. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions about banner installation.