Properly installing your floor graphics and then being able to remove them correctly will ensure they last as long as possible and leave the floor looking great after they are no longer needed.
These steps will teach you an easy way to install and remove your social distancing floor decals without fuss or complicated tools.
Installing Social Distancing Floor Stickers
1. Prepare the floor/surface
It’s very important that the surface is clean before applying your floor decal. Improper floor preparation may reduce the lifetime of the sticker and potentially leave it not looking its best.
For hard floors clean the area where the sticker will be located with cleaning solutions and water. Avoid cleaning products that will damage the floor surface.
After this wipe the surface clean with a lint-free paper towel or a dry cloth and ensure the floor is completely dry and clean.
For low-pile carpet surface vacuum the area and use a lint roller to remove any leftover dirt or other debris.
2. Peel the sticker from its backing
Using your fingernails carefully peel the sticker away from the backing paper in a smooth motion. For square stickers start from the corner.
3. Place on floor
Next place the sticker in the desired location. Carefully lining up the text and edge so it displays at the correct angle.
4. Place pressure on the sticker to adhere it to the surface
Finally, apply even pressure to the centre of the sticker and work your way outwards towards the edges applying constant pressure to remove air bubbles. After doing that in all directions apply pressure to the outside edge of the sticker to complete the adhesion.
For best practice, we suggest using a vinyl graphic squeegee and anchoring the graphic with masking tape. But if you do not have that available the above method will work.
How long should you leave floor stickers before people can walk on them?
As a standard rule of thumb, it’s best to allow 24 hours before letting people walk on the surface.
This allows it time to properly adhere so it will not shift in position and last as long as possible.
How to Remove Social Distancing Floor Stickers
To remove the stickers simply use your fingernail, plastic credit card or similar object to create enough of a wedge to allow you to get a good grip.
Next, apply pressure and at a greater than 90-degree angle pull the sticker upwards, removing it from the ground.
If you are having issues with the sticker tearing you can try using a blow dryer to apply some heat, loosening up the adhesive. Please note: do not do this in situations where it will damage the floors.
After you have removed the sticker, clean the floor to remove any excess adhesive. In most situations, you can just use a damp cloth and soapy water. If that does not completely remove the adhesive try applying more pressure or using a rubbing alcohol solution.
What are the different types of social distancing floor stickers available?
Floor Graphics (3 Month): A removable vinyl sticker laminated with an approved non-slip material to meet relevant OH & S requirements. An approximate useful life of 3 months (with moderate traffic).
Floor Graphics (6 Month): A removable vinyl sticker laminated with an approved non-slip material to meet relevant OH & S requirements. A longer useful life of 6 months (with moderate traffic).
Carpet Graphics: Are a removable vinyl sticker with a more aggressive adhesive. Only recommended for short-pile carpets.
Pavement Graphics: These stickers have a superstick adhesive that allows them to stick to concrete and other difficult surfaces. They have a life expectancy of 6 months.
Directional Arrows (Floor/Carpet): These are a standard arrow sticker with a hybrid adhesive that will work for both floors and carpets. Great for turning an isle into a one-way direction to maintain proper social distancing.
To get your order underway for any of these social distancing stickers or have your questions answered we are here to help. Simply call us on 1300 303 717 or shop social distancing stickers here.