Recommendations for Cold Weather Installations

This winter has been frigid with unparalleled amounts of snowfall across much of the United States. Even though it's March and spring is hopefully on its way, temperatures probably won't rise dramatically real soon. The Avery Dennison technical team is on the street talking to converters, printers and installers and offers the following tips. 

Applying graphics during the cold months of winter can present some unique challenges.

The following are steps to keep in mind:

  • Climatize the vinyl before printing especially if it’s stored in a large or cool space.
  • Ensure the surface temperature and the air temperature during application meet the minimums as specified in the Product Data Sheet.
  • The use of additional heat from heat guns, space heaters, and torches to increase the temperature of the vinyl during the application will help the adhesive flow for best ultimate adhesion.
  • Avoid sending newly applied graphics into extreme cold environments for 12-24 hours, allowing the adhesive to set up.

If you have a question or face a challenge that you’re not sure how to approach, we encourage you to check the product data bulletins available online, contact your distributor or call the Avery Graphics customer service line 800.282.8379 which can refer you to the technical support team.