When it comes to installation, very few things can extend the time it takes for your installer to properly lay down the vinyl and ultimately the longevity of the vinyl. One particular thing you should be mindful of is…the type of paint that is currently on your walls. This seemingly insignificant detail plays an enormous part in the end result once the vinyl is fully installed. Let’s go over a few things to consider when you’re selecting where to place your finished wall vinyl.
Wall Texture
First and foremost, you should check the texture of your wall. If the wall feels bumpy, it’s most likely due to multiple recoats. If the wall has the texture of an orange peel, it should be sanded down to be as smooth as possible.
A bumpy texture results in the material not adhering properly and can lead to the mural draping at the corners or falling off completely. This is due to the adhesive only contacting the peak of the small bumpers, resulting in a very poor bond to the overall source which gravity will pull off either partially or completely. The collective weight of the entire graphic is quite heavy…a roll of vinyl prior to printing has an average weight of 80lbs. Now imagine that same 80lbs spread across a large wall that doesn't have enough surface area to stick to, and you’ll understand why having a smoothly painted surface is so important.
Paint Type Used
The type of paint used on walls probably isn’t something you’d ever stop to think about in your daily tasks. Yet for your vinyl installer, it’s one of the most stressful parts of the installation. You may have a perfect idea, a perfect file, and a perfect printed product, but all of that means nothing if it can’t stick to the walls due to improper paint choices.
Many paints incorporate surfactants that make the walls “washable” without dulling the color or damaging the finish. These surfactants inadvertently repel any long-term adhesives, such as wall vinyls. Surfactant-infused paints are primarily ones with color pigments, more so than traditional white paints. This may not be true of every paint brand and type currently on the market, but there are certain types that are commonly found within art galleries and museums. Let’s take a look at some of the paints that are recommended as well as ones to wholeheartedly avoid.
Specific Paints To Avoid vs. To Use
It is unfortunate to have to call out specific paint brands and types, but ultimately a necessary evil in dealing with wall graphics. Here are a few paint brands and types that are important to mention: two to avoid at all costs, and one to preferably always use.
Unless you’re buying the pure white paint option, it is CRUCIAL that you avoid this type of paint entirely. For whatever reason, vinyl WILL NOT stick to it. As we mentioned before, there are many types of adhesive repellents and incorporated surfactants included in this paint that, while it looks stunning when dry, it will cause enormous problems with any future vinyl installations.
All Eggshell Paint Types
You’re no doubt familiar with the phrase “walking on eggshells”, and the same is true when it comes to using eggshell paint for vinyl installation: it’s not a good idea. Eggshell paints are popular for their low luster in direct light as opposed to matte finishes. It’s often used to give the room a soft glow and tends to pull out more of the paint’s color instead of simply giving a flat sheen.
However, eggshell paint types also add unnecessary texture. You’ll remember we mentioned previously about recoated walls having a bumpy orange-peel texture that prevents the adhesive from sticking properly. The same is true with eggshell paint. Texture is useful for many situations, but will produce more problems for your vinyl in the long run.
Ever heard the phrase “cleansing your aura”? When it refers to vinyl, this is the paint to do it! The success rate of vinyl adhering to walls painted in this brand is phenomenal, regardless of paint color or finish (satin, glass, matt, etc.). While the brand itself is somewhat pricier than other brands, keep in mind that you’ll use substantially less of it compared to other brands due to the thick consistency. Remember that you get what you pay for, and with Benjamin Moore Aura, less can actually be more.
Conclusion
Professional painters may offer their opinions and sales tactics to coax you towards a specific brand or type. Vinyl installers are solely concerned with the overall satisfaction of both the client and those viewing the wall graphics. The last thing you want is to open your exhibit to the public or private showing and your precious wall vinyl is drooping on the corners, lumpy in noticeable areas, or fallen completely onto the floor. With that in mind, it’s encouraged to take an assessment of your wall prior to installation and if painting is possible, which paints to keep in mind. These tips may not apply to your current situation, but perhaps a situation in the near future.
It may seem ridiculous and nonsensical to invest in repainting an entire wall just to cover it with a full wall of graphic vinyl, but consider this. In classic car restoration, the body shop won’t skimp on prep work or primer before doing the final paint job…the same is true for galleries and museums. As Benjamin Franklin once quoted, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Do right by your vinyl installer, and more importantly, do right by your clientele. Not only will you make your installer’s job a tad easier, but you guarantee peace of mind in the midst of all the stress that comes down to the final moments before your showing. Feel free to reach out to your installer with any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to hearing from you!
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