Proper Magnet Care & Maintenance

Proper use and care will extend the life of your magnetic sign and protect the metallic surface to which it is applied. Failure to follow these instructions may result in damage or permanent bonding of the magnet to painted and other surfaces.

Storing Your Magnetic Sign

  • When not using your magnetic sign keep it in a clean, dry place.
  • Stack flat magnetic signs on a level surface.
  • Avoid placing objects on top that could damage the face.
  • Do not stack signs with the magnetic side facing each other.

Preparing the Surface

  • Before affixing your magnetic sign to a metal surface, be sure all surface paints, clear coats, and waxes are cured (hardened).
    (Approximate curing times: paint - 90 days; clear coat - 60 days; wax - 2 days.)
  • Clean the metallic surface and the magnet with mild detergent.
  • Wipe with a soft cloth or allow to dry.

Applying Your Magnetic Sign

  • Do not apply your magnetic sign over car trim.Affix to smooth, flat, or gently curved metallic surfaces. Do not apply over car trim.
  • Make sure the entire magnet is flat against the metal surface (i.e., no air pockets).
  • If you place the magnet in the wrong position, completely remove the magnet from the surface and reaffix. Do not pull the magnet across the surface, or it may stretch due to the resistance caused by the high magnetic strength. Always remove your magnetic sign before going through a car wash.
  • Avoid use on horizontal metal surfaces exposed to direct sunlight (such as automobile hoods) or temperatures exceeding 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Exposure to cold weather will make the magnet more brittle so be careful when handling it. The magnet should not be cold when removed or it may crack.
  • Be aware that long-term use on surfaces frequently exposed to sunlight (such as vehicles) can result in uneven fading of the surface because the magnet-covered area is shielded from ultraviolet rays.
  • Please make sure that magnets will stick to the surface you intend to use them on before placing your magnetic sign order with us. Avoid use on non-metallic body fillers, simulated wood grain siding and repainted surfaces. Often, magnets will not stick to aluminum, stainless steel, and fiberglass. The exterior of Saturn cars, for example, is a plastic material in which a magnetic sign will not adhere.

Cleaning Your Magnetic Sign

  • To guard against moisture and dirt buildup between the magnet and the metal surface (particularly on outdoor applications), remove the magnet at regular intervals. Clean both the magnet and the metal surface with mild detergent; wipe with a soft cloth or allow to air-dry.
  • To protect fresh clear coat, base coat, and/or vinyl surfaces on new cars and trucks, remove magnetic signs weekly, especially in hot weather, to avoid having the magnet bond to the painted vehicle surface.