The Heat Release Removal Guide

 

Our decals are designed for easy application and clean removal when used on properly prepped, fully cured walls. With the right surface conditions, they’ll apply smoothly, stay in place, and come off cleanly in most cases. Follow this guide to help ensure the best possible results.

1. Wall Prep: The Foundation of a Good Stick

For best adhesion, your wall should be:

• Clean, dry, and smooth to the touch
• Painted with two coats of quality acrylic paint over a separate primer
• Fully cured for at least four weeks — even if it feels dry

Skipping these steps increases the risk of bubbling, lifting, or paint damage during repositioning or removal.

2. Paint Type: Why Peeling Happens (Even on Fresh Paint)

Our decals use a medium-tack adhesive that works well on most washable, low-sheen paints — including many “wash & wear” or stain-resistant finishes.

However, paint can peel or lift if:

• A separate primer wasn’t used
• The wall wasn’t properly sealed, sanded, or cleaned before painting — especially when repainting over existing paint
• The paint was applied over old, flaky, or unbonded layers
• The surface has a Teflon-based or high-performance coating and wasn’t properly sanded and primed before top coats were applied.
• The paint is fresh but not fully cured, or it’s older and brittle beneath the surface

In these cases, the issue isn’t the decal — it’s that the paint was never fully bonded to the wall in the first place.

3. Quick Test (Highly Recommended)

Not sure about your wall? Do a quick test:

• Apply a small piece of the decal to a discreet area
• Leave it in place for at least 48 hours
• Gently peel it off and check for paint lifting

If the paint stays intact, your surface is likely suitable. If it lifts, more prep may be needed.

4. Pre-Application Checklist

Before applying, make sure to:

• Wash your hands
• Wipe the wall with a damp microfiber cloth — surface dust is the most common cause of poor adhesion
• Let the wall dry completely
• Plan your layout using painter’s tape if needed
• For large decals provided in pieces, lay them out on the floor or a clean surface beforehand to check pattern alignment and overlap before installation

5. Applying Your Decals

To apply:

• Handle decals gently and avoid scratching the printed surface
• Peel the decal from its backing
• Place it on the wall and press firmly and evenly with your hands or a soft tool
• Use consistent pressure to activate the adhesive
• For large designs, cut out elements separately and pre-position with tape
• If pieces overlap, rotate gently to align patterns

6. Repositioning Decals

You can adjust decals if needed:

• Ensure your hands and the wall are clean
• Lift slowly from a corner
• Reposition gently — avoid pulling or stretching

7. Removing Decals (Use Heat)

To reduce the risk of paint damage during removal:

• Use a hairdryer on low heat to warm the decal for 30–60 seconds
• Peel slowly from a corner, keeping the decal flat and close to the wall
• Reapply heat as needed, especially for delicate surfaces

This method helps soften the adhesive and minimise disruption to the paint.

8. Storage & Reuse

To store decals safely:

• Keep the original backing paper or use clean Corflute sheets (available at most hardware stores)
• Avoid dust, dirt, or surface oils
• Store flat in a cool, dry place

9. Safety Reminder

If placing decals above cots, beds, or play areas:

• Press all edges down firmly
• Check periodically
• Remove immediately if any part begins to lift

Important Reminder

Every wall is different. Final results depend on paint type, surface prep, and removal method. While our decals are designed to be removable, we cannot guarantee damage-free removal in all cases. For this reason, we don’t offer returns for surface-related issues or change of mind. If you have any questions, reach out — we’re here to help.