When to Use Wet Application for Vinyl Decals

Mike Loftus has led MLE, a sign production and manufacturing company operating in Elmhurst in Chicago, IL, since founding the company in 2002. During Mike Loftus’ tenure, MLE has expanded its client base to more than 14 states.

Signmakers use one of two methods to affix vinyl to an item. Wet applications use an adhesive fluid when transferring a vinyl graphic to a material. The dry application only uses the adhesive on the graphic itself.

Professional signage firms like MLE usually use the more technical dry application method to affix vinyl graphics to items. However, there are some situations where the wet application is more appropriate.

For example, if the vinyl decal will go on a non-porous item like glass or tile, using the wet application method can avoid bubbling. Since the wet application is also more forgiving than dry application methods, it is recommended for placing vinyl under difficult conditions, such as high winds or intense heat. The wet method is also suitable for textured and rounded surfaces.

People who make vinyl signs as a hobby also use the wet application method, as it requires less skill than the dry method. Wet applications can serve as a substitute for dry applications in almost any scenario. However, it is not recommended to use a wet application if the room temperature is below 64 degrees.