Acrylic or HDU letters
This is generally a 2 person job. Steps 1 & 2 will be done together:
- Prepare the surface: Clean the wall where you plan to install the letters.
- Template placement: A template will be provided to guide the drilling of the required holes, typically made of paper or, in some cases, cardboard. Correct installation of the template is critical—any misalignment will result in incorrectly drilled holes, potentially damaging the wall.
Begin by accurately measuring the placement of the letters on the wall and marking the center point with tape. Understanding the overall size of the layout is essential, as it will determine where to begin the installation. Use a tape measure and level to ensure the letters are aligned properly and positioned correctly.
Unrolling and affixing the paper template to the wall requires two technicians: one to hold the template securely and the other to measure and tape it into place. It is crucial to ensure the template is smooth, free from folds, creases, or bumps.
If the template is large or wind conditions make it difficult to handle, consider securing it to a rigid yet lightweight substrate, such as Coroplast, before mounting it on the wall. This step will help stabilize the template as you begin the installation.
Once the template is in place, it should match the approved layout. If the customer is present during the installation, ensure they verify and approve the template’s placement before proceeding with the drilling.
Steps 3 & 4 will be done by (1) technician, while the other tech preps the letters for installation (Step 5)
- Mark drill holes: You can use a pencil or sharpie to mark the exact locations where you will drill holes for the mounting studs. Or as long as the pattern is secure and there is no worry of it falling, you can simply drill through the pattern.
- Drill pilot holes: Drill holes slightly larger than the diameter of your studs into the wall, making sure to drill deep enough for secure attachment.
- Install studs: Insert the studs into the pre-drilled holes in the back of the letters. (acrylic letters will be threaded and screw in securely. If using HDU letters, the holes will be non threaded and will need to be glued in.)
- Apply adhesive: Once all holes are drilled and letters have studs installed, it is time to install the letters. Apply construction adhesive in each drilled hole, one letter at a time.
- Position letters: Carefully place the letters with studs, into the drilled holes in the wall, ensuring they are level and aligned. The letters may fit snugly and could need extra effort, using the side of your fist to pound them in. Just be careful not to flex and damage the letters.
- Check alignment: Looking up from the ground towards the bottom of the letters, double-check the angle of the letters to make sure they don’t look crooked compared to one another. The letters should appear as they are all flat and on the same plane, even if the wall is uneven.
- Clean up: Once letters are installed, be sure to clean up any dust from drilling and make sure there are no hand prints or smudges on the surface of the letters.