Applying your decal is simple when you take your time and follow the right steps. Every decal from Jaws Customization is made to be durable, weather-resistant, and ready to apply, but proper installation is important for the best results.
*If you have not installed decals before, professional installation is strongly recommended. Jaws Customization is not responsible for any issues or damage caused by improper application. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or issues.*
For best results, install your decal:
Avoid installing on extremely cold, hot, dirty, waxed, or freshly painted surfaces.
Clean the area with mild soap and water first, then wipe with rubbing alcohol to remove oils, wax, dirt, or residue.
Let the surface dry completely before applying the decal.
Do not use ammonia-based cleaners such as Windex.
Before removing any backing, hold the decal up to the surface and decide exactly where you want it.
Use painter’s tape to hold it in place and step back to make sure it is straight.
Place a strip of painter’s tape down the center or along one edge of the decal to create a hinge.
This keeps the decal lined up while you apply it.
Slowly peel the backing paper away from the decal.
The design should stay stuck to the transfer tape.
If part of the decal lifts with the backing paper, lay it back down and squeegee firmly before trying again.
Slowly lay the decal onto the surface, starting from the hinged side.
Use a squeegee or credit card to press the decal down firmly as you go.
Work from the center outward to help push out air bubbles.
Some hardtop window decals may arrive slightly oversized so they can be trimmed for the best fit.
After the decal is applied to the window, do not remove the transfer tape yet.
Use a sharp razor blade or precision knife to carefully trim the excess decal material around the edges of the window.
Once the decal is applied and trimmed if needed, go over the entire design several times with firm pressure.
Pay extra attention to small details, thin lines, and edges.
Slowly peel the transfer tape back at a sharp angle.
Do not pull straight outward.
If any part of the decal lifts, lay the transfer tape back down and squeegee again before continuing.
Large decals are easier to install with two people.
Take your time and avoid rushing. Large decals can be installed using either the dry method or wet method depending on the surface and decal type.
For detailed decals, I recommend the hinge method for the cleanest placement.
The wet method can help with larger decals by allowing slight repositioning before the decal fully sticks.
Lightly mist the surface with water mixed with one small drop of dish soap.
Apply the decal, then squeegee firmly from the center outward to push out all water and air.
Let the decal dry fully before removing the transfer tape.
Drying time may vary depending on temperature and humidity.
I would recommend avoiding the wet method for decals with a lot of very small fine details, if you choose to do so please allow plenty of time to dry.
Window perforated decals are designed for rear windows and allow visibility from inside the vehicle.
After applying your decal:
Decals are weather-resistant and made for outdoor use, but proper care will help them last longer.
Lay the decal flat and firmly squeegee over the transfer tape, applying pressure across the entire design.
Flip the decal over and slowly peel the backing paper away again at a sharp angle.
If needed, repeat this process. You can also let the decal sit in a warm area for a few minutes to help the adhesive activate.
If your decal has light creases from shipping, lay it flat on a clean surface before installing.
Place a book or other flat, heavy object on top for 10–30 minutes to help flatten it out.
Most minor creases will not affect installation and will smooth out as you apply the decal.
If the backing paper is creased, take your time when peeling.
Squeegee firmly over the decal first, then peel the backing paper slowly and evenly.
If the decal starts to lift, stop, lay it back down, and squeegee again before continuing.
Small bubbles often disappear on their own over time.
For larger bubbles, gently press them toward the edge using a squeegee.
If needed, carefully use a pin to make a tiny hole and push the air out.
Press it back down firmly and apply strong pressure with a squeegee.
Make sure the surface was completely clean, dry, and free of wax or oils before applying.
Slow down and gently lift the transfer tape back before it fully sticks.
Reapply the decal slowly while smoothing from the center outward.
This is usually caused by dirt, oil, wax, or cold temperatures.
Clean the surface again with rubbing alcohol and ensure you are installing within the recommended temperature range (50°F–85°F).
Apply firm pressure across the entire decal, especially edges and small details.
Go over those areas again with firm pressure using a squeegee or your thumb.
Peel the transfer tape back very slowly at a sharp angle.
If needed, press those areas down individually as you remove the tape.
Peel the transfer tape slowly and at a sharp angle (almost flat against the surface).
If the decal lifts, stop immediately, lay the tape back down, and squeegee again before continuing.
Take your time. Most issues happen when rushing the install.
Slow, steady pressure and patience will give you the cleanest, best-looking result.
Take your time during installation. Proper surface prep, good temperature, and firm pressure make a huge difference.
If you have any questions before applying your decal, please reach out. I’m always happy to help make sure your decal goes on smoothly.