Installation and removal
Depending upon the size of the window area to be covered by the promotional graphics, the sign shop and/or the retailer may choose to commission the services of a third-party professional graphics installer.
Generally, there are two methods of installation: wet or dry. A professional graphics wrapper should know which of the two installation methods is right for the local environment. One of the most influential factors is the ambient temperature at which the films can be applied to the glass for proper adhesion.
The wet installation method is best for an ambient temperature of 18 C (64 F) or warmer and is highly recommended for large, full-window murals. The advantages of wet application include the ability to ‘slide’ the graphic into the proper position and reduce air bubbles, wrinkles and static buildup. Some graphic products, including clear films, may appear too ‘milky’ for a while after installation, but should clear up over time, depending on humidity levels and air temperature.
The dry installation method’s main advantage is it can be used in cooler ambient temperatures, as low as 10 C (50 F) unless otherwise specified by the graphic film’s manufacturer. It will result in no ‘milky’ appearance, but offers only minimal time for repositioning a graphic, so the initial alignment will be crucial.
A thicker-gauge window graphic material, such as a 0.15-mm (6-mil) film, will generally be easier to handle and position properly during installation, especially for a novice installer, than a thinner-gauge material, such as a 0.05-mm (2-mil) film.
Eventually, the time will come to remove the window graphics. This can usually be accomplished by inserting a putty knife under a corner of the material and carefully lifting the graphic away from the glass in fairly large pieces. If there is any residue left behind, the person lifting the graphic should also be able to remove it by ‘picking’ at it with the adhesive side of the just-removed film.
Alternative materials
In addition to vinyl films for window graphics, there are also ‘greener’ non-vinyl alternatives that are phthalate-free, such as polyolefin films. These are produced using less solvent content.
If the retailer wants a ‘painted on glass’ look for the window graphics, a super-clear non-vinyl film—for either indoor or outdoor application—may be beneficial. Given its clarity, it allows different images to be printed on specific areas as desired, eliminating the need to die-cut them individually.
Shining through
Keeping window graphics looking sharp and staying put throughout the challenges of the winter elements need not be a worry, so long as promotional campaigns start with the right materials, clean surfaces and proper installation. PSPs and media suppliers are working together to ensure these colourful images will outshine the dreariness of a gloomy winter day.
Jodi Sawyer is a market development specialist for Flexcon, which manufactures pressure-sensitive, adhesive-coated films. For more information, visit www.flexcon.com.
