Window Decals – What are Types and How to Choose One?

We got number of questions about Window decals hence sharing our multi-years experience by having deal with this type of vinyl with you. Window decals come in various types and, as designed, each suited for different purposes and applications. Types of window decals (at least which we used to install in our projects) are:

• Clear Window Decals are having graphics printed on clear vinyl with transparent background and having professional look with the design to stand out without entire window covering
• Opaque Window Decals are having solid background and provide superb visibility for designs hence totally blocking visibility through the window.
• Perforated Window Decals are having solid image to the outside but allow people to see out judging by specifics of the micro-perforated vinyl
• Frosted Window Decals are based on translucent material that gives a frosted glass effect hence provide privacy while still allowing light to pass through
• Static Cling Decals cling to smooth surfaces using static electricity with no adhesive use
• Vinyl Lettering are pre-cut letters or shapes made from vinyl – we install those at many franchises
• Custom Shape Decals are allowing for intricate designs so die-cut to any shape; we rarely install them
• Double-Sided Decals are having graphics printed on both sides hence visible  from inside and outside.
• Etched Glass Decals are mimicking the look of etched glass hence adding an elegant touch to windows surface
• Removable Adhesive Decals are designed for easy removal without leaving residue which is perfect for some events or promotions

So, a bit more details for a few types of windows decals that we installed in the Great Toronto Area and surrounding Ontario’s cities:

Clear Window Decals

These are a versatile and popular choice for various applications according to our installation experience. They features the clear background allows for an unobstructed view through the window around the printed design and ideal where customer want the the glass to be visible. Clear window decals made  from high-quality clear vinyl or polyester which is durable and resistant to fading, water, and UV rays. To have longevity decals designs are printed using UV-resistant inks and may include full-color vinyl graphics, text, and intricate details. These decals are provide a clean, elegant appearance which is suitable for business settings and give a sleek finish judging by its transparency. In addition, they are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use by placed on any smooth glass surface, including windows, mirrors, and glass doors.

These windows decals applicable for storefronts with logos, business hours, promotions, and branding or for the business office windows as privacy screens. We installed them on a vehicle windows as well specifically for branding and  advertising.

To begin installation, our team makes sure that the glass surface is thoroughly cleaned, if not then we use a lint-free cloth and glass cleaner to eliminate any particles or smudges. Our installers are follow up with an alcohol wipe to remove any remaining residue, allowing for optimal adhesion and longevity of the decal. Once the surface is prepared, the decal’s exact placement is marked with masking tape for alignment hence the design will sit perfectly on the glass.

For smaller decals, the team members applied vinyl graphics directly to the glass, peeling the backing and smoothing out the decal with a squeegee for a flawless, bubble-free finish. Larger decals require a slightly different technique so we lightly spraying the glass with water before positioning the decal allow to reposition and adjust the vinyl graphic until it sits precisely as intended. Once positioned, our guys use a squeegee to work out any water and air bubbles, starting from the center and moving outwards for a smooth, professional look. This meticulous process guaranteed that each decal integrates seamlessly onto the glass, delivering result suited to the needs of each of our clients.

The outcome is a seamless integration of custom graphics that enrich glass surfaces with branding or decor without obstructing views, making them a favored choice for V. Creative Graphics.

Perforated Window Decals

Perforated window decals, also known as one-way vision decals, are a unique type of window graphic that offers distinct advantages for advertising and privacy while maintaining visibility from the inside. They are made from vinyl with a pattern of tiny holes throughout the material with the standard perforation pattern from 50/50 to 70/30. These numbers indicate the ratio of printed area to open area. Similar to the clear windows decals the print on perforated decals is based on UV-resistant inks to withstand sunlight exposure and weather conditions.

Perforated decals are designed to achieve both privacy and visibility, making them a popular choice for transforming windows into impactful advertising spaces. The primary advantage of these decals is their unique one-way visibility feature: people inside the building maintain a clear view outside, while those on the exterior see a full-color, vivid graphic display. This characteristic makes perforated decals ideal for applications in offices, retail shops, and commercial spaces where privacy is needed without obstructing the view from the inside.

By allowing natural light to filter through, perforated decals also help create a brighter, more open interior environment, unlike solid graphics that can sometimes feel obstructive. For retail and commercial businesses, this blend of functionality and promotional power offers an effective way to maximize window real estate. Storefronts can advertise current promotions, showcase products, or reinforce branding without losing the utility of the window space.

The versatility of perforated decals goes beyond branding to serve as subtle privacy screens, blocking visibility into sensitive areas while maintaining a professional appearance that complements the interior. Durability of these decals give businesses a way to trust them to withstand weather conditions and resist fading, ensuring that the graphics remain vibrant and engaging for extended periods. In short, perforated decals offer a practical solution for businesses seeking to increase brand visibility and privacy while enhancing their space’s aesthetic appeal.

Installation of perforated windows decals is similar to the installation of clear windows decals (see above).

Before finalizing the installation of perforated windows decals we always suggest our customers to consider that the visibility effect works best when the outside is brighter than in the inside hence at night interior lighting can make the decal less effective from the inside. In addition, some of detailed parts of design may get lost due to the perforation pattern. Anyways, perforated window decals are an excellent solution for combining advertising and privacy with maintaining an open and airy feel inside the space.

Do you have installation project of any type of windows decals? We are always open for the most reasonable installation quote in Ontario! There are many vinyl installers in GTA and surrounding cities but only a few (us included) with high level of professionalism and competency in the vinyl graphics and wraps installations.