Commonly Asked Questions
What tools do I need to cut and apply?
The material can easily be cut with scissors or a craft knife. A tape measure or ruler for measuring. Use a plastic scraper or more specifically one of our application squeegees for applying. Lastly a spray bottle with warm water with a few drops of washing up liquid mixed in and a hairdryer or heat gun for surfaces where edges need to be wrapped.
What surfaces will the material stick to?
Surfaces must be clean, free of dust and wax. Smooth surfaces such as glass, gloss plastics, painted wood and laminated furniture will offer the greatest adhesion. Porous surfaces such as unpainted MDF will require a primer to be applied. In 9/10 cases, textured plastic will not give a good adhesion. The easiest way to check a surface is to see how well selotape with adhere.
How can I avoid bubbles when applying the material?
The easiest way to apply vinyl is to position in place, then peel back a small section of the vinyl and fold the backing paper under. You can now stick the leading edge down. Now, whilst pulling the backing paper off squeegee the vinyl down with smooth actions. You can also use the spray bottle mentioned above and moisten the surface prior to sticking the material down, you can then squeegee the bubbles and excess liquid out, allow to dry. DO NOT use the spray on porous surfaces. Self adhesive window film should always be applied using the spray.
How do I remove any bubbles?
Prick the surface with a needle and press the air out through the hole.
Can I apply sheets to round edges?
Of course! To do so, simply heat up the sheet while you are working with it with a hair dryer or heat gun on low (if using a heat gun be careful not to put it down on carpet or vinyl flooring), pull it into the form desired and squeegee down. If the sheet is heated, the corners and edges can be pulled into place without any problems. Work carefully in this case so that the sheet is not overstretched.
Do the sheets stick in outdoor areas?
Fablon films have a outside life expectancy of up to 3 years depending on weather conditions. Our vinyl lasts up to 7 years.
What kind of temperatures can the self-adhesive sheets withstand?
The sheets withstand temperatures between -10 up to + 50 °C without problems.
How heat-resistant are the Fablon materials?
The sheet can withstand temperature of up to 80°C for short periods of time. We do not recommend direct contact with hot pots, pans or dishes.
Can vinyl be used in areas that have contact with water?
Yes, the material is waterproof, you may need to seal the edges with silicon or even an acrylic nail varnish or sealing pen.
Can the vinyl be removed?
You can remove the vinyl by gently heating and pulling from the edge. Any glue residue may be removed with an alcohol based product - always test an area first.
Can I clean the material?
Yes, any general household cleaner can be used but warm soapy water is best.
How environmentally friendly is the DC Fix range of fablons and window films?
d-c-fix sheets are free of heavy metals, light fast in accordance to DIN EN ISO 105-B02, and are abrasion and scouring resistant as per DIN EN ISO 105-X12. Solvent-free emulsion glues are used.