How to apply and remove wall decals
Wall decals can be a great way to liven up your space in a non-permanent way. But it’s a process; if you don’t apply them the right way, they can look less than stellar, and improper removal can damage the wall. If all this sounds daunting to you, don’t fret! Below are some straightforward guidelines on getting those decals on and off without a hassle.
Applying
The fun starts with selecting the right space for your decal. It makes the most sense to first measure out the space where you’re looking for a little more decoration, rather than choose a decal and hope it fits.
Once you’ve found a design that fits the decor of your room and is the size you need, it’s time to clean. Dust the wall off first. Next, get a bucket of warm water, and incorporate a non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner, which you’ll use to wash the walls. A sponge dampened with this solution works best. Let the surface dry before trying to apply the decal.
There’s an old adage that says “measure twice, and cut once.” While you probably won’t be doing any cutting, you’re definitely going to want to measure your decal in relation to the space again. Do a dry run of the decal application by taping it gently to the wall to see how it will look. Adjust this placement as necessary, then draw a light guideline so you’ll know just how to line it up once you’re ready to apply it.
Finally, it’s time to make it stick. Remove the covering of the adhesive side of the decal a little bit at a time, ensuring that you line up with your guidelines and remove any air bubbles. This may be the most time-consuming part, but if you do it right, it will look beautiful.
Removing
Much like the applying process, the steps required to properly remove a decal take a great amount of care. Fortunately, there aren’t as many! Keep in mind that while virtually all decals are removable, they usually aren’t reusable.
The trick lies in figuring out which kind of adhesive your decal uses. If you have a soft adhesive, a hair dryer is your best bet. Hold the hair dryer close to the decal to let it warm the adhesive. Gently pull the decal as you blow it with air. Use only your hands to remove it, as any sharp or thin tool can inadvertently cause damage to the wall.
For tougher adhesives, try baby oil. Use a sponge to blot the oil onto the decal, then leave it to soak for about 20 minutes. After this, the decal should come off easily, though you’ll probably want to wash the wall afterwards.
Have an extra pesky adhesive that just won’t succumb to the previous two methods? You’ll probably want to try a commercial adhesive cleaner.
Though they aren’t the easiest thing to apply or remove, decals can really add extra style to the decor of any room. Equipped with these tips, you’ll be able to use them without a problem.
How to Remove Wall Decals [Apartments]
How to Apply Wall Decals [WikiHow]