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Fitting Graphics on roller shutter on van
Hey guys
I’ve just been asked to do the back of a van that has a roller shutter.
It’s just vinyl lettering so nothing too difficult but i’ve not done one of these yet so just wanted to get advice before going ahead.
I’m thinking just apply the vinyl like normal and use a blade to cut between the slats, is this how it’s done?
More importantly, what would you use to clean it with? I’m talking between the slats as I can see this failing quite quickly if not cleaned correctly.
Thanks
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12 Replies
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Correct on the application – clean with a de-greasing solution prior to fitting. A high tack polymeric vinyl is preferable but not essential
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Thanks Iain.
What de-greasing solution do you use?
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If it’s heavy soiling Daniel, I’ve found engine degreaser to be very good, something like "Gunk" but do a patch test first.
For light and medium, Avery hard surface cleaner [emoji106] -
Wow, gunk? Would never of thought of that. Avery sounds good, I use to use their cleaner but started using IPA but I just don’t feel it cleans as well
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One thing to watch out for is capillary action tends to hold liquid in place between the slats so it takes a while for it to dry out properly. Make sure you give it plenty of time between cleaning the slats and applying the vinyl to ensure all traces of moisture have gone otherwise the vinyl will lift at the edges
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Thanks Phill, what’s a good amount of time?
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You can normally tell if there’s still moisture in place – just leave it as long as possible. I’ve seen me with a hot air gun trying to dry out the slats long after I had finished cleaning – and even after I’d thought it was dry – still some drips appear. So as long as is reasonably possible.
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Excellent, thanks.
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You can turn the van on its side so all the slats drain off properly.
:smiles: :smiles: :smiles: -
Daniel
if you access to an airline & blower works wonders for displacing the waterKev
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Unfortunately no access to a airline, I’ll just have to wait and use a heat gun to help things along
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Hi
All very good advice above.
We have found that applying it over the slats and slitting gives the most complete visual finish – i.e. the text / graphic is broken up less, but sometimes you just can’t get right in between the slats to clean to where the vinyl ‘falls’ after slitting – some shutters are worse than others.
We often take measurements and pre-cut the gaps between slats so we finish 1 – 1.5mm back either side, or just off the radiused edge. This takes longer to cut and weed and a bit longer to install but avoids this cleaning problem and also to a certain extent if you cant get between the slats bone dry. The other advantage is that seems to last longer.
Some designs don’t suit having the gaps cut out, others do – will leave that up to you.
Cheers
Macky
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