Window Graphics Archives - Digital Print Media

Clear Adhesive Overlaminates for Windows: Application Tips & Tricks

April 18, 2019 By Digital Print Media Editor

Choosing the correct media for a window decal application is the first step to creating a graphic that your customers (and their customers) will love and buzz about. Clear adhesive overlaminates are a popular choice for window graphics because they can be inexpensive and easy to install – just make sure the film is printable. HP Gloss Polymeric Overlaminate and HP Matte Polymeric Overlaminate are perfect for window graphic applications. Each features a 140g DSPE lay-flat liner and performs exceptionally well for printable applications as well as an overlaminate.

Popular window graphic applications

Indoor and outdoor signage
Special effects
Privacy
Decor
Promotional decals
Brand building
Overlaminate solutions

Keep reading for helpful tips and tricks on how to apply install window graphics like a professional.

Clean the Area Where the Graphic Will Be Applied

The first thing you want to make sure of when applying vinyl window graphics is that the surface area you’re applying them to is thoroughly cleaned. Take your time to ensure there is no dust, dirt or grime that may get in the way. Use a lint-free wipe and a non-ammonia based cleaner to clean the surface.

Certain cleaning solutions have chemical agents that can cause the adhesive to not bond to the window surface. Once clean, be sure to wait until the surface is entirely dry. Using an IPA (isopropyl alcohol)/water mixture (50% water with 50% IPA) can help accelerate drying time and is a great cleaning solvent for windows. Thoroughly cleaning the area is critical and will help you to avoid unattractive mishaps, such as bubbling or messy edges. It will also help ensure the graphic lasts longer because there will be nothing keeping it from sticking to the surface.

Get Fluid Prepared for ‘Wet’ Application Method

The wet application method is the recommended application method for getting the vinyl window graphics to slide around the surface well. You can make this fluid easily with a couple drops of dish soap mixed with water and poured into a spray bottle. Remove the liner from the graphic and spray the window with a generous amount of the mixture and well as the adhesive side of the graphics and position it where you would like on the window. You should be able to move it around easily to get the positioning you’d like. The graphic may appear hazy after the initial installation which could last up to several days before clearing.

Final Steps

Using a soft squeegee, squeegee from the center of the graphic out towards the edge of the graphic forcing the fluid to escape. You can choose to use application tape to hold the window decal into place. To smooth out remaining liquid and bubbles, use a soft squeegee and work from the center of the graphic out towards the edge. If application tape was applied, wait a minimum of 15 minutes before removing tape, keeping it parallel to the glass. Pull back the application tape at a 180 degree angle to minimize the possibility of lifting the applied graphic. Be sure to double check to make sure that positioning is what you want before the solution begins to dry. You won’t be able to move it around freely if it dries up.

HP’s Recommended Application fluids

Rapid Tac
IPA/Water mixture (75% water to 25% IPA)
Mix a gallon of water with approximately 1 tsp of mild/synthetic detergent that does not contain perfumes, wax, oils, or lotions

HP’s Recommended Installation Steps

Test the glass surface for wax or other coatings by placing several drops of water on various areas of the glass. If the water forms into beads, then there is a coating on the glass that needs to be removed prior to application. If water does not form into beads, the glass surface is ready to install.
Apply a generous amount of application fluid using a spray bottle/applicator completely covering the window for which graphic will be applied. Depending on the size of the graphic, it may be helpful to also spray the adhesive side of the print as well.
Remove the liner from the graphic and position the graphic on the area where the fluid was sprayed.
Using a soft squeegee, squeegee from the center of the graphic out towards the edge of the graphic forcing the fluid to escape.
If application tape was applied, wait a minimum of 15 minutes before removing tape, keeping it parallel to the glass. Pull back the application tape at a 180 degree angle to minimize the possibility of lifting the applied graphic.

Download HP’s Tips and Tricks for Installing Window Graphics >>

How to Choose the Right Overlaminate

October 23, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Overlaminate may seem like an afterthought compared to deciding the primary elements of your graphic such as color, materials, and design. While it is a finishing touch, it is a very important one to consider.

An overlaminate will prolong the life of your graphic and protect it from weathering, UV rays, damage, and scratches.

Types of Overlaminate Materials

The main types of overlaminate materials are cast, monomeric, or polymeric vinyl. Depending on the type of graphic you have chosen, one of these three will be the best option. Keep in mind that the substrate (the layer under the overlaminate) dictates the material for the overlaminate.

It is possible to mix materials in some cases. A better quality overlaminate can be used with a lesser quality substrate. However, the opposite is not true. A cast vinyl cannot be combined with a polymeric or monomeric overlaminate because it can cause edge curl or shrinkage. Cast vinyl must be paired with a cast overlaminate.

Think about the type, location, and use of the graphic.

Will it be a floor graphic, a sign, or car wraparound?
Is the image 2D or 3D?

This will help to decide with type of overlaminate material that is required.

For 2D graphics including signs, interior walls, or displays, a standard polymeric overlaminate is recommended. With 3D graphics, a cast overlaminate should be used. There is more of a stretch of the material with 3D applications, and any other type of material will not work correctly.

Cast vinyl and cast overlaminate are the most long-lasting combination of the materials available for graphics. While the cost is higher with the cast materials, the durability and stability are better. Over time this cost difference will pay off with a longer-lasting sign, floor graphics, or mural, especially those that are placed in outdoor spaces. Cast overlaminates can also have several types of finishes, including glossy, satin, matte, or luster to match the desired appearance of the project.

Overlaminates are an important finishing touch for any type of graphics or signs. Protect your investment with a quality overlaminate that will stand the test of weather, wear, and time.

There are several types of overlaminates to choose from, so consider the use, placement, and look that you’d like as you discuss the options with your vendor or graphic designer.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mactac Europe (@mactac_europe) on Oct 15, 2015 at 2:32pm PDT

Large Format Printer Maintenance

June 14, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Maintaining your large format printer ensures that jobs are completed on-time and prints are of the highest quality.

Updated: 6/14/2018 – Your wide format printer will only work well if it is properly maintained. When you rely on your printer for your business, regular maintenance is vital. It is the kind of thing best done preventatively and regularly, instead of waiting for something to go wrong.

To keep your wide format printer functioning well for a long time to come, follow these tips for print head cleaning and more. You will also find a well-maintained printer makes better prints!

Supplies for Printer Maintenance

Have these supplies in stock for maintenance and repair. Each one plays an important role.

Gloves: Wear latex or nitrile gloves when performing printer maintenance. It is important to avoid direct contact with chemicals such as ink and cleaning solvents.
Eye Protection: Similarly, safety goggles protect your eyes. Just in case printer ink or other solvents splash, you will be glad you have the coverage!
Shop Wipes / Industrial Wipes: Paper towels are a must-have for quick clean up of any spills or messes.
Print Swabs: Print head swabs are one of the most important supplies to have on hand. These are used to clean the hard to reach areas of your wide format printer. When you use print swabs you can extend the life of your print heads and improve print quality.
Print Head Wipes: Use a polyester, lint-free wipe, with attributes similar to those of cleanroom wipes. Use these to clean print heads and other sensitive materials and areas of the printer.
Spray Bottle: Use this for careful, accurate spraying of your cleaning solvent. You should always refer to your specific printer manual for acceptable cleaning solvents.

Referring to Your Manual

The manual for your printer will give you specific instructions for maintenance. This includes how often you should clean and maintain your printer. It will also let you know which supplies and cleaners suit your specific machine. While some of these products are universal, like safety goggles and gloves, others will change with your printer make and model.

Other Maintenance Considerations

Factors like the environment in which your printer lives impact maintenance and cleaning. Think about the operating temperature and humidity — higher or lower levels can change your printer’s efficiency. The cleanliness of the area also matters.

Have questions regarding this topic? Leave a comment below to start the discussion.

Why Use Window Graphics?

March 23, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Window graphics offer a low-fi way to attract customers with all the impact of a high-tech solution. Storefront advertising is an effective marketing method that has been around for a long time. It works well in conjunction with other marketing, or on its own.

Vinyl graphics are effective because they easily draw in passersby. Even if someone was not planning to drop into your business, a great window graphic can be enough to attract attention. Using this cost-effective advertisement, you will get a big impact from a small investment.

The Benefits of Window Graphics

Vinyl graphics are inexpensive compared to fixed signs. They are easy to change and easy to remove. It is simple, therefore, to use vinyl graphics as a year-round advertisement or to adjust your message for special sales or events.

Permanent signs often require permits from your city. These graphics, however, do not permanently alter the space in any way. This means that they install easily without having to deal with the paperwork and cost of pursuing a permit.

Small businesses, retail stores, restaurants, service providers, hotels, and storefronts from many other industries benefit from vinyl graphics. Sharing the right message, you can reach out to your customers and potential new clients whether your business is open or closed. You will always be advertising, and always attracting attention with well-made graphics.

Special Graphic Applications

Unique graphics draw even more attention to your business. Try metallic vinyl graphics for a touch of elegance. Frosted graphics add beauty and privacy at the same time, at a low cost. You do not need etched glass when you have this removable film! Perforated graphics also add privacy without compromising on light quality.

Any of these special graphic applications, and others, can be adjusted to meet your specific space and branding requirements. These graphics are flexible and customizable for each and every business space.

Wide format printers are perfect for creating graphics of all types. Basic graphics, specialty films, and any other vinyl media come out beautifully with a high-quality printer. We can help you create the graphics that elevate your business, or provide you with the machine you need to do it yourself.

Window graphics are easy-to-use and highly customizable. They are a cost-effective way to transform a location. Try a graphic to see how it enhances the customer experience. It may even change the way you do business, as well as your bottom line.