Dirty Howie

A buddy just gave me new numbers. Never had them before so didn't check em during the day. Now one of the corners came loose and the sticky part now has dust/dirt and won't adhere to the car.

So question is: Is this fixable or new number necessary.


DH

FKING1

I have used small pieces of masking tape to secure loose corners and sides.

Dirty Howie

I was hoping there was some solvent or solution that could remove the dirt and expose the fresh sticky side of the vinyl


DH

c4cruiser

Try hot soapy water. I would think that a solvent would remove the removable adhesive coating.

If that doesn't work, you may have to buy a replacement number. Also, remember to completely the area before installing the numbers. I always carry a small squirt bottle of water and some old washrags to clean and dry the area where the numbers will go before an event.

froggy47

Is it static cling or light adhesive?

If static cling I have used soap & water.

If light adhesive, they are not meant to go on/off too many times.

Either way I always tape the leading edge just in case.

There is a clear tape sold in craft stores (Michaels) that you can tear with your fingers (easy to apply) and since it's clear it doesn't look like crap.

Dirty Howie

Thanks


DH

Dirty Howie

Thanks. They were given as a gift but I assume its sticky type? There is a backing paper to place them back on when not in use.


DH

napacruzerc5

Depending on the number you can "trim off" the dirty part. If on the leading edge check the opposite side and maybe just swap so it won't be on the leading edge. Also when not in use be sure to use the smooth "waxy" paper to lay them on.

froggy47

Good tip, but I would store them on "shiny" paper but not waxy. If you get wax on the "sticky" it'll hurt.

Usually I store my (static cling) on the paper they ship with.

Dirty Howie

They are on the paper they came with. I am assuming since they have dirt stuck on them that they are the sticky type. If they were static would they still attract and hold dirt like that?


DH

froggy47

Static cling is like saran wrap (only you don't stretch it) it feels clingy but not sticky.

Sticky is sort of like post it note, not as sticky as duct tape, but stuff (like dirt) will stick to it.



You can wash off static cling with mild soap & water, but if it's the sticky type I don't think washing will do much.

Figure out which you have.

Dirty Howie

Its definitely sticky on one side only. Static sounds like it would have same surface on both side. I will try to remove the dirt with some duct tape. How does that sound ???


DH

froggy47

Sure, give it a try. A small spot at a time.