Graphic design is big business. More and more small companies are turning to visual aids to assist with advertising. One of the most versatile and affordable types of visual advertising aids is a vinyl window graphic. These graphics can be applied to your storefront window, company vehicle, or glass door to help capture the attention of potential customers.

While vinyl decals seem like a simple product to design and use, there are some tips that can help you improve the appearance and function of your clear vinyl window graphics in the future.

1. Opt for Subsurface Vinyl Graphics

The type of vinyl graphics that you choose to install can have a direct effect on the lifespan of your visual advertising aids. It can be helpful to use subsurface graphics for your advertising needs.

Subsurface vinyl graphics are applied on the interior surface of your window or glass. This prevents the graphics from sustaining any weather-related damage or damage caused by vandals.

The adhesive will be on the display side of a subsurface vinyl graphic, so proper installation techniques must be used to eliminate the potential for air bubbles or wrinkles to mar your graphic design.

2. Clean Glass Before Installation

The glass surface on which you will be affixing your vinyl graphics must be completely clean. Any dirt or debris left on the surface of the glass could damage the vinyl and allow air pockets to interfere with adhesion.

You should avoid the use of ammonia-based cleaners, since these products can off-gas over time and lead to the creation of bubbling under your vinyl decal. A household glass cleaner will provide the best results.

3. Use an Application Fluid for Installation

It can be tempting to press the vinyl graphic onto your glass like a sticker. This installation method can work, but the likelihood of bubbling and wrinkling of the vinyl is high. A better approach is to utilize an application fluid to install your graphic.

An application fluid is essentially water mixed with a few drops of liquid dish soap. The application fluid temporarily disables the adhesive on the vinyl, allowing you to move and reposition the graphic with ease.

You can use a credit card or piece of stiff cardstock paper to press the fluid out from the center of the vinyl decal. As you squeegee the graphic, the application fluid moves out from beneath the vinyl and creates a wrinkle and bubble-free adhesion.

Learn more information about how window graphics can best serve your needs.