It's all about preparation...

Surface preparation.

A large majority of label failures have nothing to do with the adhesive, but with either the surface preparation or the surface itself.

Whilst some adhesives have different operating temperature ranges that they are designed to perform between, virtually all have the same minimum application temperature – not less than 10 degrees celsius.

All self adhesive labels are pressure sensitive and need to be “rubbed” on the surface you want them to adhere to. With some labels you can place the label in the correct position and move it slightly if necessary, then apply pressure to “activate” the adhesive.

It is imperative that the surface be clean. Work on the theory that unless you have just cleaned the surface, it’s dirty or contaminated.

Wherever possible, surfaces should be cleaned with a solvent (Isopropyl Alcohol, Prep-Sol, Xylol, Xylene, or Heptane) to remove any trace of grease, oil or wax. Isopropyl Alcohol is recommended.

Newly painted surfaces should be avoided and left to sit for as long as possible prior to application of graphics – ideally at least a week. If you do not allow the paint to cure properly, it may outgas solvents which change the adhesives properties and may cause a failure.

When removing the label from the carrier paper, try not to touch the adhesive as this may contaminate it. Place the label lightly in position and then rub the label onto the surface. Smaller labels can be rubbed on by hand but larger labels and signage may require the use of a squeegee or applicator. For these larger labels applying them without air bubbles is an art form in itself - we can only recommend practice and trial & error.

When testing adhesion of your label to a surface, allow 24 hours from the time of application to allow the adhesive to reach it's full bond strength or "cure".

Good luck!

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Read Label. You won't come unstuck.