How to apply reflective tape?
Four steps to apply your reflective tapeTo ensure the durability, strong adhesion and effectiveness of your reflective tape, it’s important to correctly apply the reflective tape to your vehicle, equipment, or property. Proper application also helps to ensure that your warranty is valid.
Step 1 — Check the Weather
For optimum adhesion and durability, Dingfei reflective tapes should be applied when the temperature is between 50°-100°F (10°-38°C). If the temperature is above 100°F, take care to avoid pre-adhesion. If the temperature is below 50°F, heat the application surface using portable heaters or heat lamps, and store the markings in a hotbox to keep them above 50°F.
Step 2 — Get the Right Tools
Here are the tools you’ll need to apply your reflective tape:
1.Scissors or utility knife with a sharp blade for cutting.
2.Squeegee or roller to apply pressure across the surface of the reflective tape.
3.Rivet tool, such as an Osborne Arc Punch #149, if you’re going over rivets. You can also cut around rivets.
Step 3 — Prepare the Surface
For proper adhesion, clean any surface where you’re applying reflective tape:
1.Wash surfaces with detergent and water to remove dirt and road film.
2.Flush washed area with plain, clean water to remove detergent. Soap film can inhibit adhesion.
3.Wipe using a lint-free paper towel saturated with non-oily, quick-drying solvent, such as isopropyl alcohol, acetone.
4.Immediately dry surfaces with clean, dry, lint-free paper towel before solvent evaporates completely, paying close attention to rivets, seams, and door hinge areas.
Step 4 — Apply the Reflective Tape
To apply the reflective tape:
1.Remove the liner and position the reflective tape on the application surface.
2.Tack down lightly to hold the reflective tape in position.
3.Use your hand to press the reflective tape onto the application surface.
4.Using your Squeegee (or other applicator) press the reflective tape down using firm, overlapping strokes.
5.If there are hinges, latches or other hardware, cut the tape about ⅛ inches back to avoid buckling.
6.To apply over rivets, apply the reflective tape over the rivet using firm pressure. Leave a bridge over the rivet head. Use a rivet punch to cut the tape around the rivet. Remove the tape over the rivet head. Squeegee around the rivet.