Installing window vinyl
A clean pane, a spray bottle and a little patience will get a small window graphic on with no bubbles. A big one is a two-person job, and fitting can be agreed in your quote if you would rather not try.
Wet or dry?
Check this first, because the answer depends on the product. Most plain window films go on wet, which lets you slide the vinyl into position. Some films, including certain air-release and perforated types, are meant to go on dry. Ask us which yours is and follow that advice.
What to have ready.
- A squeegee with a soft edge, or a felt-edged one
- A spray bottle of water with a drop or two of washing-up liquid
- A glass scraper, used with care
- Soft, clean cloths and masking tape
- A tape measure, spirit level and a sharp knife with spare blades
The method.
- Pick your moment. Avoid direct sun, frost and windy days. The adhesive and the water both behave badly in extremes.
- Clean the glass twice. Scrape off any paint specks and old adhesive, wash the pane, then clean again. Pay attention to the corners and edges where the dirt collects.
- Position it dry. Hold the graphic up, still on its backing, and mark where it goes with small pieces of masking tape. Check it with a level, measuring from the frame and from the ground, as old frames are rarely true.
- Make a hinge. Run tape across the middle or along the top, so the graphic swings like a page in a book and stays in register.
- Wet the glass. Spray the pane generously, and spray the adhesive side as you peel the backing away.
- Lay it down. Let the vinyl touch the wet glass, then slide it to your marks.
- Squeegee from the centre. Work outwards with overlapping strokes, pushing out the water. Go firmly, but without digging in.
- Remove the application tape if there is one. Wait as long as your film needs, then pull it back flat against itself, slowly.
If it goes wrong.
| Fault | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Small bubbles of water | Normal with wet fitting | Many clear as the film dries; give it a few days |
| Bubbles of air | Too little pressure | Squeegee again, or prick with a fine pin and press flat |
| Bits under the film | Dirty glass or an airborne speck | Peel back at once if you can; otherwise it stays |
| Lifting at the edges | Soap left behind, or wet edges | Press down with a cloth and let it dry |
| Letters coming away with the tape | Pulled too fast, or too soon | Press them back and peel at a lower angle |
Inside or outside the glass?
A graphic fitted inside is protected from weather and from people, but it must be printed to read through the glass. Measure and order with that in mind, as our guide to measuring a window for vinyl explains. Frosted effects are covered in frosted window vinyl.
For high windows, use proper access equipment and a competent fitter. If you want us involved, fitting arrangements are agreed in your quote. Our window graphics page shows the range.
Vinyl on glass.
Your questions.
How soon can the window be cleaned after fitting?
Leave it for a while, so that the film can settle. Follow the advice for your material, and avoid scrubbing the edges later.
Can I reposition vinyl once it is down?
When wet, you can usually slide it for a short while. Once the water has gone, trying to move it risks stretching or creasing it.
Can vinyl go on double glazing?
Yes, but heavy dark films on a sunny pane can raise the heat in the glass. Check with your glazier if you are concerned.