The best tips for gluing vinyl include adequately cleaning the project area, working in small sections at a time, and following proper safety precautions. A clean project area provides an easier surface for the adhesives to attach to, and can provide a longer hold between two materials. Dropped edges that don't properly meet, and air pockets beneath the surface of a project can be avoided by working in small sections. The safety precautions that can be taken when working with vinyl adhesive require that all individuals wear protective gloves and that the work area be adequately ventilated.
It may be necessary to attempt gluing vinyl for a wide variety of household repair projects. The skills and tools needed to adequately complete the job may vary depending on the type of vinyl being used, and where it will be installed. Vinyl may be used as a floor covering in the form of individual tiles or rolled sheets. It may also be used as an upholstery to cover couches, chairs, and car seats.
Regardless of the type of project being undertaken, proper cleaning of the work area can ensure a beautiful finish. Sub-floors to which vinyl tiles or rolled strips will be attached must be thoroughly vacuumed and swept to remove any dust and small debris. Particles left on the sub-floor surface can mix with the adhesive used, and lessen the product's ability to hold over time. Similarly, upholstery projects, whether new or part of a repair job, can be washed using a damp cloth and non-abrasive soap, such as dish liquid, to make sure that no dirt particles compromise the integrity of the glue.
When gluing vinyl to a floor, the project leader should first determine which type of adhesive will work best with the purchased vinyl. There are two types of vinyl flooring glue that may be used to complete this type of project: full bond and perimeter bond. Every inch of the back of the vinyl must be covered with adhesive when using a full bond product, while only the edges and interior seams must be glued down when using a perimeter bond product.
The project leader should work in small sections while gluing vinyl to the sub-floor. This prevents the flooring from slipping out of alignment, and small bubbles and raised areas from occurring across the sheeting. Multiple sheets and tiles should be laid one piece at a time. Individual, small sections of the vinyl may be lifted so that adhesive may be applied to the back before firmly pressing it into place.
Specialty glues are often required when gluing vinyl fabric. The fabric may need to be adhered to a different type of surface, such as glass or wood, or may need to be attached to another piece of vinyl. The project leader can research the best type of adhesive for his project by consulting with an expert at a local home improvement store, or searching on the Internet. Most adhesives list on the packaging the different types of materials they are suited for, and this list should include vinyl.
Gloves must be worn at all times when working with adhesives formulated to stick to vinyl fabric, and the work area should be adequately ventilated as some adhesives produce small amounts of toxic fumes. Once the gluing process has been completed, the finished product can rest to cure for up to 24 hours, to allow the adhesive the ability to completely bond. The glued area may be supported during this curing period by additional patchwork or masking tape that is designed to be removed later.