Instruction Bulletin 5.1 - 8
G. Painted or Primed
Substrates
All surface treatments, primers and topcoats must adhere well to the base material. If the
paint is not firmly attached to the base material, the graphic and the paint may pull away from
the substrate. Any visible signs of peeling, lifting, or bubbling of the paint indicates poor
paint-to-substrate adhesion. Original paint may not have adequate adhesion to some
substrates. Even removing changeable films may pull off paint that is not firmly attached to
the base material.
• Avoid finish paints that tend to chalk. Chalked paint on weathered surfaces must be
removed by mechanical buffing. Chalked paint that is on the interior must be re-primed.
• Test for chalking with the Tape Snap Test, page 11.
• Be aware that some tinted paints may bleed through some films.
• Be aware that some graphic materials may bleed through onto the paint.
• Avoid paints that contain migratory agents or agents that are difficult to adhere to. Some
paints, especially those sold as graffiti-resistant, may contain high concentrations of
ingredients such as silicones or chlorinated waxes. It may not be possible to obtain
adequate adhesion to these types of paint.
• Follow the drying and curing times recommended by the paint manufacturer. Under-
cured paint may outgas, prevent the adhesive from adhering adequately, or prevent a
removable or changeable product from removing as expected.
• 3M recommends using an epoxy-based primer. Primer surfacers do not provide a good
base for adhering film.
• The primer and the paint should be produced by the same manufacturer and formulated
as companion products to ensure good adhesion between the paint layers.
(1) Baked Enamel Paint Bake according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Cool to room temperature.
• Method 1: General Cleaning AND then, either followed by:
- For weathered paint: Method 2: Solvent Cleaning
- For new paint: Method 4: Dust and Dry Particle Cleaning
(2) Enamel or Oil-Based Paint • Method 1: General Cleaning
• OR Method 4: Dust and Dry Particle Cleaning.
(3) Latex Paint For better results, use high quality gloss or semi-gloss paints. Low luster or matte paints
contain matting agents that may contribute to poor film adhesion.
Some paints do not allow films to adhere well. Paint testing is available from 3M. Call
Technical Service at 1-800-328-3908 for information.
Although most paints are usually dry to the touch within one hour, you cannot apply the
graphic immediately after painting. Paint manufacturers typically recommend waiting one
week. Even latex paint contains solvents that continue to evaporate for a period of time. If the
paint is not thoroughly cured, the graphic may not adhere or its edges may curl. If you must
apply the graphic sooner, perform the Tape Snap Test, page 11, in several locations.
• Method 1: General Cleaning
• OR Method 4: Dust and Dry Particle Cleaning.
(4) Two-part Urethane Paint Cure two-part urethane paints before applying a graphic. If the paint has not thoroughly
cured, bubbles will form under the applied graphic. Follow the paint manufacturer's
instructions.
Proper curing generally requires temperatures above 70° F (21° C). This type of paint does
not cure at temperatures below 50° F (9° C).
Perform the Outgassing Test, page 11.
• Method 1: General Cleaning AND then, followed by Method 2: Solvent Cleaning.
(5) Powder-coated Paint Waxes used in powder coatings can negatively affect adhesion; always test for acceptable
paint adhesion. Paint testing is also available from 3M. Call Technical Service at
1-800-328-3908 for information.
• Method 1: General Cleaning AND then, followed by Method 2: Solvent Cleaning.