Basics of Window Graphics

Windows are typically something we take for granted. We are often looking through them or disregard their existence, except in times when we need them for protection or something catches our eye inside when we pass by. It is these two complementary ideas that form the basis for why your business needs to offer Window Graphics – Windows are necessary for viewing and safety. Let’s explore both of these concepts and how Window Graphics apply and what they have to offer.

Window as Portal
We build structures with windows for the purpose of letting in light and to appreciate a good view. Windows provide us the ability to look inside that structure and, from the inside, look out. Simply put: they can draw the eye when utilized properly. Since the eye is naturally drawn to windows, windows are the perfect place to position a graphic.

Window as Protection
While we enjoy the ability to be safe inside our structures, there is also the real possibility that we do not want someone else looking in. This is where the idea of window graphics as protection can also serve your business well. Place a graphic in front of the glass and it will make the task of peering inside more difficult, which can protect anything sensitive on the inside. There is also the breakage factor to consider. Applying a film to a piece of glass can hold the glass together in case of impact – weather, vandalism, vehicle collision, etc.

3 Things to Consider When Deciding on Window Graphics:

• Time. How long will the graphic be installed? If it's for a short time, lower cost options can be considered.
• Installation Environment. Some forms of film are more forgiving than others. A calendered vinyl with a permanent adhesive will get you the best longevity at the lowest cost, but you better know what you’re doing when you install it. Static cling is more forgivable if it’s for a non-graphics person to install such as a retail or restaurant customer. Static cling doesn’t last long outdoors.
• Graphic Complexity, the style of artwork the client is requesting. Is the job a rectangular single-color perforated vinyl with a removable adhesive? Is it a clear, contour-cut static cling with a white flood behind it and a double hit of ink to make it pop?

Window Graphics are in a category by themselves, so let’s focus on three of the most popular – static cling, window perf, and etched glass films.

Applications – Static Cling
Static cling vinyl is a thicker substrate (7-8 mil) without any adhesive. It has a glossy sheen and comes in white or clear depending on the application. If you are looking for maximum impact, clear static cling with a flood of white ink as a spot color under your print and a contour cut makes a very impressive graphic. However, rectangle prints on white can also satisfy the customer's needs at an economic price point. The white static cling allows for a reverse print if the customer wants to place the graphic inside, facing out. This is a nice feature to protect the longevity of the graphic (outdoor durability for static cling is notoriously low) and also protects from vandals and practical jokers who think it’ might be funny to peel it off or otherwise give your customers a hard time. Some static clings come on a liner so you can use your vinyl cutter or printer/cutter for a higher quality application. The main benefit of static cling is that it is very forgiving during install and can be remounted as needed. No special tools or experience is needed.

Applications – Window Perf
Most windows are flat whether made of glass or synthetic materials. Without the need for conforming to curved surfaces, you can save cost by using perforated calendered film, often called window perf. Types of adhesives can vary according to need. Permanent adhesives can be cheaper, and glass is easy to scrape with a razor blade when it’s time to remove the graphic. You could also choose a removable adhesive to save your customer the trouble or if they want to install the graphic themselves. Unlike static cling, perf does have an active adhesive and is often installed edge to edge so you will have to anticipate some knife work. Window perf can be contour-cut and comes in a variety of different perforation ratios to fit the exact type of application. The most common type is 60/40 which is 60% vinyl and 40% perforation, but there are others that conceal more such as 70/30 and 80/20. Window perf is great for completing a vehicle wrap, utilizing an extra 20+ square feet of area, or for security reasons where you don’t want anyone seeing inside the building, but you want to see outside.

Applications – Etched Glass Film
The quickest and easiest window graphic you’ll ever have to make is with etched glass film. Most etched glass films can be digitally printed, hand-cut, or contour cut and applied. Etched glass film is the thinnest of the options we’ve discussed thus far so there may be a little more care in handling needed, but it can be pulled directly from the roll. The most popular designs with etched glass films are company logos and vector art patterns. Many installations are done indoors as corporate art and décor pieces. There is also the “Distraction Strip”. Typically, part of a regional building code, a distraction strip is a two-inch-wide strip of vinyl installed about 3-4 feet (and sometimes 8 feet) off the ground on floor-to-ceiling glass. Its purpose is exactly what you’d think – to distract someone from walking right into the glass. It happens with birds, and it absolutely happens with humans. Have any high-rise buildings in your town? Check their ground floor glass. Could be an easy money maker for your business. A quick zoning code search in your area could reveal that most architects mistakenly overlook this fact. If not, it’s a great way to make a new corporate client friend. Maximum benefit to them, easy money for you. Conference rooms are also a great add-on for an office building.

Window Graphics Help Businesses and Have a Lot to Offer
Utilizing your business space to its maximum potential can be done through window graphics. Draw in the eyes of your consumer to your storefront window that might otherwise be overlooked. Provide protection in various ways to any window and offer great branding as well. After considering various applications and the three questions (time, installation environment, graphic complexity) you’ll be prepared to start your business in offering window graphics.