posted by vinyl frog on September 7, 2022

How to Remove Bubbles from Vinyl Wrap?

You are installing vinyl and everything is going smooth when suddenly there emerges a little bubble. Don’t worry. Read on to find out how it can be removed.

If you have ever partaken in any activities involving vinyl wrap, you will know how straightforward its application process is. However, sometimes, annoying little troublemakers pop up.

Yes, I am talking about bubbles; these tiny air pockets can ruin the look of your otherwise smooth vinyl wrap. These can be prevented with proper attention during application, but even if they do show up once in a while, they can be dealt with easily.

How to Remove Vinyl Wrap Bubbles?

Dealing with these pesky bubbles should not mean that you have to remove and reapply your vinyl wrap. You can smooth over the bubbles by applying pressure. This method however does not always work. Sometimes you do not get the seamless look, plus it is not suitable for bigger bubbles. Let’s look at a few other methods you can use.

Use a squeegee to push the bubble out:
If the bubble is close to the edge, then this is the perfect method for you. Using a squeegee, slowly push the bubble and bring it towards the nearest edge. Do not press too hard or you will leave a mark. The bubble should be forced out slowly and gently.
Pinprick method:
After application, if you see any bubbles on the vinyl surface you can use a tiny pin to remove them. Using the pin, poke the bubble once and using a scraper smooth it over. Prick the bubble very lightly and it should not be too deep so as to leave a mark on the surface underneath. One of the best tools for this is the Vinyl Frog Air Release Pen. It has a stainless steel retractable precision needle tip that is best for effectively removing bubbles without damaging the film. The hole made in the vinyl is so small that it is not visible to the naked eye.
Heating method:
Using either a heat gun or a blow dryer, you can apply heat over the bubbles and they will disappear. Hold the heat source a few inches from the surface. Applying heat reduces the strength of the adhesive. Once the bubble flattens, use a squeegee to smooth it out. Be careful not to apply excessive heat and always start at the lowest setting, increasing gradually. You can even expose the vinyl wrap to direct sunlight to reduce the appearance of bubbles. However overexposure has to be avoided so as not to damage the vinyl.

How to Prevent Bubbles in Vinyl Wrap?

Gloss Vinyl Wrap

The foremost rule to remove bubbles from your vinyl is - the sooner the better. What is even better is never letting them appear in the first place. Preventative measures before and during the vinyl application process can save you lots of time and effort. Here is what you can do:

Before you start the process, make sure that your surface is clean and free from any debris or dust which could possibly interfere with the application. The surface should also be completely dry to get the best possible result.
Be slow and steady. If you rush the process of vinyl wrapping, you might face the problem of bubbles.
During the application process, press the vinyl from the center then flatten out the edges. Applying consistent pressure can greatly reduce the probability of bubbling in your vinyl wrap.
Use a squeegee to smooth out the vinyl. Working with the right tools resolves a lot of issues.
Invest in high quality vinyl. Cheap, low quality vinyl will bubble no matter how many precautions you take.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Final Verdict

Getting bubbles while wrapping is pretty normal and nothing to fret about. At the first sight of a bubble in your vinyl wrap, you can adopt any of the aforementioned methods and easily get rid of them. A smooth, flawless surface gives a good impact to onlookers and gives you the satisfaction of a job well done!