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Heat is the traditional method for removing vinyl graphics. Steam heat usually offers the best method. It is an efficient as well as clean source of heat. The person cleaning the vinyl sign is not exposed to toxic chemicals and does not have to use open flames.

With a steamer and the proper attachments, all the worker needs is plain water, 115-volts of electricity, and a 15-amp circuit.

The streamer should heat up for approximately 10 minutes. It should produce 94% dry vapor at about 300 degrees. When the vapor hides the work surface, its 200-degree steam softens the vinyl, the adhesive, and the vinyl bond.

Remember that vinyl graphics are not all the same. Some are more difficult to remove than others. There are UV-resistant digitally-printed graphics, solvent-based graphics, thick films, and thinner films. Digitally-printed graphics put up more of a fight. Thinner films may crack before surrendering. But steam and patience offer the best weapons regardless of the type of vinyl graphics.

It is best to know what kind of battle you are facing. Experiment with the steamer on a painted, out-of-sight area to get a feel for the coming work. If the steamer is working and the paint is not damaged, workers can fell confident as they attack the job.