This is a question that's being asked by installers everywhere. As paint manufacturers have changed the chemistry of their paints to lower the levels of Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs, the ability of any manufacturer's graphic film to adhere to the newer paints has changed dramatically. If you'd like to save time and listen to this video instead of reading the entire blog, then click away! Video on installing vinyl wall graphics on surfaces painted with low VOC paint 3M has analyzed this problem and developed a solution that is remarkably simple, inexpensive and highly effective. The key is in how the surface is prepared, and then taking just a few more minutes to test the adhesion of the films you plan to use. Here's 3M’s best practice for ensuring that you can easily and successfully adhere almost any wall film to nearly any painted wall. Start with the 3M™ Enhanced Adhesion Cleaning Method. This method, which involves an isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water solution and two cleaning steps, will greatly increase a film's adhesion to a low-VOC paint. • Prepare a cleaning solution with 70 percent IPA and 30 percent water (essentially rubbing alcohol) in a spray bottle. • Soak a clean, lint-free cloth with the cleaning solution until it is dripping wet. • Clean the test (or application) area with overlapping strokes. Especially in the first cleaning, you may notice some migrated paint particles on the cloth (see photo at right). • Thoroughly soak another clean, lint-free cloth with the cleaning solution and wash the wall again. Researchers at 3M have found that cleaning the wall TWICE with a mixture of 70 percent IPA and 30 percent water can significantly boost adhesion for nearly any wall film applied to a painted substrate. At Focal Point Signs & Imaging we pride ourselves in offering 3M products because they are American made, best in class, and fully warrantied. If you’re looking for a professionally printed and installed wall graphic, wall mural, or wall paper call us at 657-346-2281. We also carry the HP PVC Wall Paper which is great for schools and hospitals as this a Green Guard paper that does not gas out and lasts for years to come.