How To Completely Remove Vinyl Lettering

One of the advantages to using vinyl lettering for custom signs is that they can be removed and replaced without damaging the surface

. The area can be cleaned and new vinyl lettering can be put in place. While the old letters cannot be salvaged, they are usually removed when they are tired looking or are no longer timely or accurate in their message. There are a number of tricks that sign makers use to remove old vinyl lettering. This can be done at home or at the office with some basic tools and household products.

Easy

For vinyl lettering that has not been affixed for a long period of time, it is often a matter of simply peeling it off with hands. The first method to try is to select a corner and catch the tip with a finger nail. When there is enough vinyl to grasp, gently pull it out and back toward the rest of the letter. Shift the tugging angle slightly in the direction of the letter material. As more of the letter comes off, move the fingers closer to the surface and continue to pull it in the direction of the remaining parts of the letter. If there is no glue or residue on the surface when the lettering is all the way off, the surface can simply be cleaned normally with glass cleaner or a regular spray cleaning product and a damp cloth.

Medium

The longer vinyl lettering has been attached, the harder it is to remove. If the letters do not simply peel off with the fingers, try rubbing alcohol. Use a cotton ball or soft lint-free cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol to swab the area and loosen the adhesive. Alcohol will not harm a vehicle surface, a mirror or glass. For a sturdier surface and more stubborn glue, a small amount of paint thinner will reduce the stickiness and allow the letters to peel off more easily. After applying the alcohol or paint thinner around the edges and across the vinyl lettering, find a corner to start peeling. As the material peels back, swab the folded sticky edge underneath of the letter that is still stuck to the surface while gently tugging. A cotton swab dipped in the solution is helpful for getting into the tiny crevice between the stuck and unstuck vinyl.

Difficult

When vinyl letters have been adhered for years, it may be extremely difficult to remove without scratching the surface or pulling paint off with it. Try the first two methods. If this does not work, use a hair dryer. Start with a warm setting on low to soften the adhesive glue. Move the hair dryer back and forth over the letter until the material begins to soften. If it does not, switch the setting to high, but be sure not to damage the surface around it with heat. Use a hard paddle or plastic spatula to loosen the edges and protect the fingers from direct heat of the hair dryer. Be patient. It may take some time. Once the vinyl is pulled o, there will likely be gummy residue that can be removed with rubbing alcohol or household cleaner made for that surface.

Before applying new lettering, make sure the surface is clean and dry. If it needs to be painted first, this is the appropriate time to do so.

by: Christine Harrell

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