How to Install CVOR Door Decals
No professional needed. No special tools beyond what is in your kit. Clean the surface, position with masking tape, squeegee, peel. Done. Most drivers finish both doors in under 30 minutes.
Need decals first? Order CVOR Door Decals →Before You Start
- Temperature must be above 10°C (50°F)
- Surface must be clean, dry, and free of wax or silicone
- Do not apply in rain or high humidity
- Wait 24 hours after washing before applying
What You Need
Your CVOR decal set (2 decals)
Included in your order
Isopropyl alcohol (70%+)
Pharmacy or hardware store
Lint-free cloth
Paper towel works if needed
Masking tape
For your level guideline
Squeegee
Included in your kit
Measuring tape
Match position on both sides
Step-by-Step Application
Clean the door surface
3 minWipe both cab doors with isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth. Focus on the area where the decal will go. Road grime, diesel film, and wax all prevent adhesion. Let dry 2 minutes. This is the most important step. Dirty surfaces cause edge peeling within days.
Mark your position with masking tape
2 minUse masking tape to create a level horizontal guideline. The top of the lettering should sit about one-third down from the top of the door panel. Measure from the top of the door on both sides so they match exactly for a professional fleet layout.
Peel the backing paper
1 minHold the decal face-down. Peel the white backing paper away at a 45-degree angle. The vinyl letters stay on the clear transfer tape. If a letter sticks to the backing, press it back onto the transfer tape and try again more slowly.
Apply and squeegee from centre outward
3 minAlign the top edge of the transfer tape with your masking tape guideline. Press one corner lightly to anchor. Lay the rest down gradually. Use the included squeegee from the centre outward with firm, overlapping strokes. Cover every letter. You should see the letters settle flat against the door surface.
Remove the transfer tape
2 minWait 5 minutes for the adhesive to bond. Then peel the transfer tape back at 180 degrees. This means pulling it flat against the surface, not away from it. Go slowly. If any letter lifts, press the tape back down, squeegee that area again, wait another minute, and try once more.
Repeat on the other door
10 minMatch the height from your measurements in step 2. Both-side lettering looks professional and helps customers identify the truck. Ontario O.Reg 424/97 does not require exterior CVOR markings on both sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying on a dirty surface — the most common cause of peeling. Always clean with IPA first.
- Applying in cold weather — below 10°C, adhesive does not bond. Wait for warmer conditions or apply in a heated garage.
- Pulling transfer tape too fast — letters lift. Peel slowly at 180 degrees only.
- Not using a guideline — letters go on crooked. 60 seconds of masking tape prevents a redo.
- Not pressing hard enough with the squeegee — air pockets remain. Firm pressure, overlapping strokes.
Aftercare
- • Do not wash the truck for 48 hours after application
- • Pressure washing is safe after 72 hours
- • If an edge lifts, press it down firmly with your thumb or a heat gun on low
- • Expected life: 5+ years in Ontario conditions including salt, UV, and car washes
Need Decals to Install?
Order your CVOR door decals online. We produce and ship in 1-2 business days from Port Colborne.