It is critical for clean removal to make sure the wall has been primed before painting, in a separate step.
Types of substrates
Smooth drywall
It is a common misconception that smooth drywall is perfectly smooth, as closer inspection reveals a series of gentle undulations in the surface, which is a bit of a challenge for adhesive films. By comparison, glass is typically perfectly smooth, with a hard finish ideal for adhesives of all types. Drywall/sheetrock has a natural fibre texture, morphing from its basic paper base when finished with a range of paint types, roller nap thicknesses, and specific materials. A uniform texture provides a consistent substrate for most adhesives, but this is where adhesive formulation and film selection are critical. A film that is too rigid with a thin adhesive layer, or a thin film with a glue that is too gentle or aggressive, will either fall off or pull paint when the time comes to remove the graphic. There is a delicate balance to keep when gauging factors such as tack, bond, and film type.
The paint sheen you use while administering the desired tone and feel for the space also imparts a surface variant into the mix when pairing it with an adhesive wall vinyl. Flat paint offers a low-sheen, non-reflective surface, but this comes at the cost of creating a low surface energy contact point for your adhesive. This micro-texture presents a challenge for adhesive bonding, which is exacerbated by the introduction of low and zero volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, which outgas their curing agents over a longer period of time. Flat paint requires an adhesive with higher initial tack, to allow the material to grip and hold as the bond grows over time.
Eggshell or semi-gloss paints inherently have a little more shine, and their smoother, harder finish makes for an ideal application surface for wall graphics. It is critical for clean removal to make sure the wall has been primed before painting, in a separate step. This seals the drywall paper and any loose particulate or joint compound, as well as creates a platform for optimal paint adhesion.
Stucco/textured walls
Stucco or textured walls introduce irregularities and require adhesive materials with extra conformability, which are designed to hold on intricate surface variations. A cast or ultra-conformable calendered vinyl is going to be best, but do not go running for your standard wrap material, as a slidable permanent adhesive might not be the best option. Stickers applied to these surfaces have to navigate their peaks and valleys, so these applications typically require something more high tack to stick and hold and be removed when you are ready.
No matter the location of the project, surface preparation is key.
Unsealed concrete/brick
With their coarse and porous texture, unsealed concrete and brick surfaces call for adhesives with heightened tack and cohesive strength. This is a different type of low surface energy wall, as it is living and breathing, with the potential for latent moisture in the substrate, along with uneven edges and a difficult environment for application. Both the film and adhesive formulations should accommodate any irregularities, ensuring consistent and durable graphic application across an unsealed texture. The best recommendation is to use a thick, high-tack adhesive on a dry day with a heated edge seal technique, or to attempt to seal the surface ahead of time to provide a moisture/debris barrier for improved adhesion.
Sealed concrete/cinder block
These surfaces essentially have their pores sealed—ideally with a semi-gloss or better paint—and provide a smoother, harder surface for applying graphics. Adhesives designed for these substrates still need to have high tack and strong bonding characteristics, and the films should have excellent flexibility and conformability to adhere to the variable surface.
Other/miscellaneous surfaces
The eclectic world of walls extends beyond traditional surfaces to include compositions such as synthetic materials, plywood barricades, and random surfaces—each with its own unique identity. On these walls, stickers encounter unconventional textures and really need to be tested in and for the end use. Adaptability becomes key for stickers to find their place on these experimental surfaces, but you have the opportunity to turn these substrates into unexpected canvases for creative expression.
