Inside glass decal and graphics printing
What to consider when choosing inside glass decals.
So you've decided that you are going to purchase window decals to enhance the look of your glass windows for your business or establishment. In conjunction with ordering window graphics and decals, you'll need to figure out how the decal will be installed. There are two different ways to install window decals: inside or outside. Both installation methods have their pros and cons. Deciding which one will work best for your window decal needs takes a little bit of thought as to your location/environment, glass style, and desired overall look upon installation.
When it comes to window graphics, decals, and stickers the most common method of installation is an outside application. Utilizing the outside application method is easier to install and works well for most all window graphics. When the window graphics are created the adhesive is on the backside of the vinyl lettering or digitally printed graphics and is applied to the outside of the window.
The other window decal installation option commonly referred to as inside glass application is when the window decals are "mirror-cut" printed and have the adhesive on the front side of the graphics be applied to the inside of a glass surface facing out. This method is typically chosen when a few key factors are in place. When considering inside glass decals you'll need to consider the following things to make sure that your window graphics will have the impact you desire.
ENVIRONMENT & LOCATION
The most common reason why customers choose the inside glass application pretty much always boils down to location and environment. Look around your neighborhood and take stock of the overall graffiti or vandalism in the area. If the vandalism rate is very high then you will want to consider inside glass decals to keep your window graphics safe and to protect your investment. Also, sometimes building codes are enforced that specifically require that all window graphics be on the inside of the glass.
Sometimes your environmental situations may dictate an inside glass decal decision. While most window decals are printed with eco-solvent inks and have a protective lamination applied to them for long-term outdoor use, severe weather conditions or excessive sunlight can decrease the longevity of your window graphics.
GLASS DOOR OR WINDOW CHARACTERISTICS
When our customers request inside application decals our first concern is window tint. For the most part, every single building that has any glass surfaces (doors, windows, floor-to-ceiling facades, etc.) will have an element of tint to the glass surface. Window tint, depending on the density of shading, can hinder the visibility of your inside glass decals. Even the slightest tinting can affect the visual impact of your inside glass decals causing the graphics to look a bit duller and not as vibrant as with a standard outside glass decal application. Be vary wary of clear decals for use on windows and glass as well. The transparent nature of the clear vinyl material makes the inks translucent and may render the decal completely illegible.
OVERALL LOOK OF THE DECAL
Besides the window tint factor, which can obscure or alter the visibility and color of your window graphics, there is the issue of bubbling. Both application methods can incur bubbling when applied to the glass surface. During the application process, when the decal is being squeegeed onto the glass surface, if you don't press down hard enough little bubbles may arise. The bubbles can be pricked with a push pin or tack to release the trapped air underneath the vinyl material. Outside glass decals with bubbling issues tend to be less noticeable than inside glass decals. Also be aware of the bubbling factor if you are ordering inside glass static cling decals, as you don't want to poke holes in the static cling material.
Have questions about inside glass decals or window graphics, please give us a call at (714) 573-9313. You may also request online window graphics and decals for instant pricing.
