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Preparing the awning for DirectDecals How to apply

1. Surface inspection and cleaning

   • Install only on smooth, clean awnings that are free of silicone coatings, as silicone prevents adhesion. Will this work? Order a small printed sample to test for adhesion first.

   • Wash the awning with plain hot water, avoiding detergents, surfactants, or sealers that can leave residue.

   • Rinse thoroughly and allow the awning to dry completely; installing on a damp surface can trap moisture and weaken adhesion.

2. Layout, trimming, and test fitting

   • Unroll and lay the DirectDecal (or GripAwn panel) flat in a clean, warm interior space to let the material relax from shipping curl before installation. Drape longer panels over a door.

   • If needed, trim to final size while it is still on the carrier sheet, then hold it up to the awning to check alignment and coverage before peeling.

   • Mark light guide points (with removable tape or pencil) on the awning to help you position the bottom edge straight.

3. Optional wet application for easy positioning

   • For large awning graphics, we recommend installing in sections or using the wet method. Lightly mist the awning face with a mix of clean water and a drop of mild, non‑residue dish soap like Ivory; the goal is a very thin, slightly slippery film, not visible droplets.

   • This wet layer allows you to float the decal into position and slide it slightly before final burnishing, minimizing trapped air bubbles.

Step‑by‑step installation

1. Peel and place

   • Starting at one edge, separate the clear printed film and carrier from the white backing, keeping the adhesive away from dust and folds.

   • For dry installs, tack the top edge in place at your alignment marks and work downward; for wet installs, lay the film gently onto the damp surface from one side to the other to avoid trapping air.

2. Burnish for full contact

   • Using a felt‑wrapped squeegee or a plastic squeegee with a soft edge in front and a firm piece of wood from behind, work from the center out toward all edges with firm, overlapping strokes to force out water and air and activate the pressure‑sensitive adhesive.

   • Pay extra attention to corners, seams, and any raised stitching or hardware so the decal conforms tightly and doesn’t bridge over texture.

3. Check and finish

   • Inspect the surface in raking light to spot any remaining bubbles; small bubbles can often be worked to the nearest edge, while larger, stubborn bubbles can be vented with a sharp pin and then pressed flat.

   • Wipe away any residual application fluid from edges and allow the graphic to dry and bond for at least 24 hours before heavy washing, tensioning, or rolling the awning. Questions?

Best practices and use notes

• Install in mild, dry weather, avoid windy conditions and temperatures below about 40° or above 85° during application for best handling and adhesive performance.

• Do not install over loose, chalking, silicone‑treated, or heavily textured awning fabrics; adhesion depends on a clean, solid, non‑silicone surface.

• For longest life, clean finished graphics with mild soap and water only—avoid strong solvents, abrasives, and pressure‑washing directly at the graphic edges.