Bubbles in Films Without Air-Release Technology
When people refer to air trapped beneath a vinyl graphic, they often use the general term "bubble." In reality, several different types of bubbles and bubble-like defects can appear throughout the life of a graphic. While many may look similar, their causes, prevention methods, and corrective actions can differ significantly. Understanding these defects allows installers to diagnose problems more accurately, correct them more effectively, and improve long-term graphic performance.
Bubbles in Films Without Air-Release Technology
Bubbles are most commonly associated with films that utilize a flat liner and do not contain air-release channels. Because trapped air cannot easily escape during installation, additional care is required.
Two effective methods help reduce bubble formation:
Wet Application
A wet application uses a compatible application fluid on both the substrate and adhesive. The fluid temporarily reduces adhesive aggressiveness, allowing the installer to reposition the graphic while removing trapped air and moisture with a squeegee.
Benefits include:
- Easier positioning
- Improved air and fluid removal
- Smoother finished appearance
Adhesive Management
Adhesive management involves exposing only small sections of adhesive at a time rather than removing the entire liner at once.
A common practice is to apply approximately 6 inches of film before advancing to the next section. This method greatly reduces the likelihood of trapping air beneath the graphic.