Today’s tip 

 This tip comes to mind because of a call we received  from a frustrated customer who, while using our EnduraLite reflective vinyl, had trouble with bubbles after the application tape was removed.

Since reflective vinyl is supposed to be installed dry, the removal of the tape stresses the connection between the newly applied vinyl and the substrate contributing to bubbling. The trick is getting the tape to release from the vinyl without putting so much stress on the vinyl that it weakens the newly formed bond between the adhesive and the substrate. To do this, you have to loosen the application tape’s grip on the vinyl. I suggested that the customer try a wet tape technique and they reported that it solved the problem. So here, for everyone’s edification, is the wet tape/ dry vinyl application method.

 
First, transfer the graphic to the substrate dry. (Dry in this case means without using application fluid under the vinyl). Wet the application tape, preferably with SureGlide or RapidTac, before removing from the vinyl graphic. Apply the fluid liberally, then squeegee the fluid into the tape to weaken the tape’s adhesive. (This doesn't work as well with clear tapes because they have a plastic, not paper, face stock, so the fluid can’t penetrate the face stock and weaken the adhesive).
Next, remove the tape by peeling it back at a 180° angle (back against the surface) rather than pulling upward at a 90° angle. This further reduces stress on the connection between the vinyl’s adhesive and the substrate, reducing the likelihood of bubbles. The result is a bubble-free installation.
This technique is especially helpful when applying standard calendared vinyls to automotive glass or when applying reflective vinyl to vehicles (reflective vinyls are to be installed dry; no app fluid under the film).