How to Install a Windshield Banner on Your Car

Banner Installation Guide

Take your time with prep — it’s 80% of a clean install. If you’re unsure, we recommend professional installation.

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

  • Microfiber cloths & isopropyl alcohol (70%+)
  • Masking tape or painter’s tape
  • Plastic squeegee (felt edge if available)
  • Measuring tape & level (or a straight edge)
  • Sharp blade/scissors
  • Optional: heat gun or hair dryer (low heat)

🧼 Surface Prep

  • Install on a clean, dry, smooth surface (50–90°F / 10–32°C).
  • Wash area to remove dirt/wax; wipe with isopropyl alcohol; let dry completely.
  • Avoid installing in wind, rain, or direct hot sun.

40" Banner Install

40" BANNERS — DRY METHOD

💡 Tip: Install with a friend for best results.

🪛 Installation — Dry Method

  1. Position & tape a hinge: Hold the banner in place and use masking tape vertically through the center of the banner to create a hinge. Step back and confirm level and centering before continuing.
  2. Peel backing to the hinge: Lift one side and peel the liner back to the center hinge. Don’t touch adhesive with dusty hands.
  3. Lay down from hinge outward: Starting at the center, use a squeegee in firm overlapping strokes at 45°, working outward to the edge.
  4. Remove the hinge & finish: Peel remaining liner and continue squeegeeing from the adhered area outward until fully down.
  5. Remove masking tape correctly: When peeling off the masking tape, lay it flat against the windshield glass and pull slowly at a 45° angle. This prevents the vinyl from lifting or stretching.

60" Banner Install

60" CUT OUT BANNERS — WET METHOD

⚠️ Reminder: For 60" banners with masking tape, leave the clear masking tape on for a few hours. When you peel it off slowly, if the banner starts to lift, stop and let it dry longer until it no longer lifts. You can also wet the tape slightly to help it come off easier.
💡 Tip: Install with a friend for best results.

🪛 Installation — Wet Method

  1. Clean Your Window: Use rubbing alcohol to clean your windshield.
  2. Peel the Back: Lay the banner face down. Carefully peel off the white backing paper.
  3. Spray the Banner: Lightly spray the sticky side of the banner with a mixture of water and a small amount of baby shampoo. Don't get the paper backing wet!
  4. Spray the Windshield, Roof, Pillars: Spray your windshield generously with the same water mix. This lets you move the banner around and position evenly across the surface.
  5. Place It: Put the banner on the wet windshield, center it carefully, and make sure the corners of the banner reach and cover the windshield edges before locking it in place.
  6. Squeegee Out Water: Use a squeegee to push all the water bubbles out from under the banner, starting from the middle and working out.
  7. Trim Edges: Carefully use a razor to trim any excess vinyl around the edges of your windshield.
  8. Let it Dry: Allow the banner to dry for 48 hours before it gets wet, hot, or before using your wipers. Do not drive the car during this period to avoid airflow lifting the edges.

⚠️ Early driving may cause lifting or peeling due to wind pressure before the adhesive has cured.

✅ Aftercare

  • Wait 24 hours before heavy washing.
  • Hand wash only; avoid pressure washers at seams/edges.
  • Inspect edges periodically and press down if lifted.

⚠️ Important

  • We can’t replace items damaged by improper installation or misuse.
  • If in doubt, use a pro installer.

Additional Questions

Trapped bubbles

Small bubbles often dissipate in a few days. For stubborn ones, prick the edge with a fine pin and push air out with the squeegee.

Wrinkles/creases

Lift gently, add light heat, and re-squeegee from the center out. Don’t overstretch the material.

Edge lift

Warm the edge, press down firmly with a felt squeegee. If dust got under the edge, clean & dry first for best adhesion.

Need more help?

Reach out anytime at support@happyendingsofficial.com