Adhesive Window Graphics: Why are they installed on the outside?

Erica Gabriel

Publication date: 09/13/2023

Why Adhesive Window Graphics Must Be Mounted on the Outside

Introduction

Adhesive window graphics, such as window cling and perforated window vinyl, are popular choices for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their windows with creative designs, promotions, or privacy features. However, one common misconception is whether these graphics should be applied to the inside or the outside of the window. In this article, we will explore why adhesive window graphics are typically applied to the outside and the science behind it. We will also discuss alternative solutions for those interested in placing graphics on the inside of their windows.

The Adhesive Liner

Before we dive into the reasons for applying adhesive window graphics on the outside, it’s essential to understand how these graphics work. These graphics come with an adhesive liner, which is a protective backing layer that covers the sticky side of the graphic. The adhesive liner serves several crucial functions:

  1. Protection: The adhesive liner protects the adhesive side of the graphic from dust, debris, and damage during transportation and installation.
  2. Easy Application: It provides a convenient way to handle and apply the graphic without sticking to everything it comes in contact with.
  3. Clarity and Vibrancy: Placing the graphic on the outside allows it to be viewed without interference from the glass, ensuring that the design’s colors and details are vibrant and clear.

Now, let’s explore why adhesive window graphics are applied to the exterior of windows.

Why Adhesive Window Graphics Are Applied Outside

  1. Enhanced Visibility: Placing the graphic on the outside of the window ensures that it’s readily visible to anyone passing by. This is especially important for businesses looking to attract customers or convey a message effectively.
  2. UV Protection: Window graphics applied on the outside of the window provide better protection against UV rays and weathering, preserving the graphic’s longevity and vibrancy.
  3. Easy Removal: If you need to remove or replace the graphic, it’s much simpler to do so when it’s on the outside. Interior graphics may leave adhesive residue or damage the window when removed.
  4. Interior Clutter: Applying graphics to the inside can obstruct visibility from the inside, causing potential safety concerns and making the interior feel cluttered.

Removing the Liner Removes The Print

Regardless of the above reasons, the predominant reason that window graphics must be installed on the outside of the window is that we can only print on the non-adhesive side of the media.  We’ve explained above that an adhesive liner protects the adhesive layer during printing and shipping (as the media comes rolled and is also shipped to you this way).

The adhesive side of the media cannot be exposed for printing as (a) inknet printers cannot print on the adhesive side and (b) even if they could, how would the media get transported to you without the protective liner stopping it from sticking to itself?  It would be adhesive mess.  For this reason, virtually all printing of window graphics is done on the opposite side of the adhesive, which is protected by a liner.  When you receive your media, you remove that liner and carefully apply the graphic to the outside of the window.  If we printed on the liner side, your printed image would be removed with the liner and you’d be left with blank adhesive media with nothing printed on it.

Alternative Solutions for Interior Application

Our clear window cling can be used with a ‘reversed’ print so that the graphic faces the opposite direction, and in this way, the adhesive liner can be removed and the cling can be installed on the inside with the graphic facing the other way.  Only clear media works for this, but the drawback is that the media is completely transparenent and see-through, even the printed image, which doesn’t work for most uses where you need an opaque or white background.  The opaque/white background prevents the image from being seen on the opposite side, yet another reason graphics are mounted to the outside of the window.

A local specialty sign shop might be able to provide an alternative solution with local print and installation services where another opaque layer could be installed behind a clear layer, but these are advanced installations that fall outside the scope of our services and your DIY type project.

Conclusion

Adhesive window graphics, like window cling and perforated window vinyl, are typically applied to the outside of windows due to the advantages of enhanced visibility, UV protection, and ease of removal. However, there are alternative solutions for those who prefer interior placement, such as double-sided graphics, static cling, or perforated window vinyl with optically clear adhesive. Ultimately, the choice between interior and exterior placement depends on your specific needs and preferences, but understanding the science behind adhesive liners can help you make an informed decision.

author avatar
Erica Gabriel

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