Choosing the correct size for a window decal is an important step in the process of placing the decals on the windows of the designated location. Choosing the correct size for a window decal will ensure that the window decal remains visible to the observer of those windows. A window decal should be large enough to be seen by the viewer of the window, but a window decal should also be sized appropriately for the window in which it is to be placed.
Size is important to consider in the selection of a window decal in that the size will determine how visible the decal will be to viewers of the window, and the size will also determine for how long the adhesive portion of the decal will function appropriate. The chart provides size options for window decals that range from small square sizes to large square sizes. Each size of the square decals is provided with a use for that size of the decals.
How to Choose and Place Window Decals
Three-inch square decals are best used for bird deterrent dots because the purpose of such dots is to create a certain pattern on the glass. The larger square sizes of decals are best used for providing signage or providing privacy for the windows in which the decals are to be placed. Similar to the square decals are rectangular decals of various sizes.
The same logic that applies to square decals also applies to rectangular decals. Narrow rectangular decals are used for placing label on doors or for displaying hours of operation. Wide rectangular decals work best for doors that slide open and display product.
Rectangular decals should have the longest edge of the decals match the line of the window. Matching the longest edge of the rectangular decals to the line of the window will make the decals appear to be intentional placed onto the windows. The material of the decals is also an important factor.
The material of decals will determine the way in which the adhesive portion of the decal will function. Permanent vinyl decals are best used on areas that are exposed to the outside of the building, such as storefronts and vehicles. The permanent vinyl decals are more durable than the other types of decals.
Removable vinyl decals will come off of the windows more easy over time. However, because they are less durable than permanent vinyl decals, they are best for temporary display. Static cling decals dont contain any adhesive.
However, the static cling decals will only work well on indoor windows. Static cling decals will lose their grip on the glass if the humidity in the air increase. UV resistance is a factor that is often overlooked when considering the purchase of a window decal.
However, the importance of UV resistance helps to ensure that the decals will not fade. Basic laminates will fade with direct sunlight. Dual layer protection will maintain the colors of the decals for a longer period of time.
If the windows that are to be decalined face south, or if the decals will be exposed to direct sunlight, then the decals will need to contain higher level of UV resistance. The higher the level of UV resistance of the decals, the less that the decals will need to be replaced each year. An individual’s technique for application of the decals will also impact the lifespan of those decals.
The technique is almost as important as the material chosen for the decals. A glass may appear to be clean and clear. However, there may be a thin film of oil on the surface of the glass.
Such oil can prevent the adhesive portion of the decals from properly making contact with the glass. Wiping the glass with isopropyl alcohol will remove the oil from the glass. Allowing the glass to air dry for a few minute will ensure that it is dry before placing the decals on the glass.
The temperature of the glass also matters. The adhesive portion of the decals works best within a moderate temperature range. Avoid placing decals on a glass during the very cold weather in the mornings.
Avoid placing decals on a glass that the sun has heated during the day. The dots used for bird deterrent will have specific spacing requirements between each dot. Should the spacing between the dots be too far from each other, the birds will not be adequately deterred from colliding with the glass.
A minimum diameter for the decals is required to effectively act as deterrents for birds. Smaller decals may not become visible to the birds that are traveling at high speeds. UV reflective decals will work as deterrents for the birds because they will remain visible to the birds.
However, the UV reflective decals will remain nearly invisible to human observer. Storefront decals will usually be of a larger size than decals for other types of windows. This is due to the viewing distance for commercial space.
A decal that is visible up close may not be visible from across the street from the storefront. If the window to be decalined will display primary signage for the location, the size of the decals should be scale up for visibility from a distance. A common mistake in placing decals on windows is incorrectly choosing the size of the decals based off how the decals appear on a computer screen.
Monitor screens dont reflect the same light as the glass windows. A decal that may be visible on the monitor screen may not be visible on the actual glass. Measuring the size of the window that is to receive the decals will ensure that the size of the decals will be appropriate for that window.
Testing a paper template of the decals for the window will remove any guesswork involve in the placement of the decals. Once the individual has selected the size, the material, and the placement of the decals, the decals will function as a part of the window.
