You’ve researched, found your perfect window graphic supplier, and are ready to get the ball rolling. You’re about to finalize some details with them when they throw you a curveball: How do you choose the right graphics?
What if you need 100 different custom graphics? Do you have to supply them with all of your ideas first? Or, more specifically, how do you ensure that each custom designed graphic has the exact dimensions so they can be printed on top of one another later? Do you need graphics for your windows or glass doors? Where do you place the logo?
It sounds like a lot of work, and it is.
Several other details should be considered before deciding whether to use static or dynamic cut graphics. Something as simple as cost and size can significantly impact how long those graphics last, how frequently they need to be replaced, and how environmentally friendly that investment is overall.
However, with the proper preparation, you can make an informed decision in no time. These considerations will help you choose the right graphics for your business and keep everyone organized.
Know the Differences Between Static and Dynamic Prints
While they may look the same, dynamic and static window graphics are made differently. The types of print you choose can impact the size and cost of your graphics and how long they will last. A static print is slightly less durable than a dynamic print and is made from a single sheet of the vinyl material that uses pressure to adhere to the window.
A dynamic graphic will use a special type of vinyl that can be programmed to change on the fly, whereas static prints are one-and-done. They’re made of thicker vinyl, making them ideal for longer-term applications, and they can even be applied over static prints.
You don’t want people on the street to notice your building. After all, your windows are supposed to be a see-through barrier.
Understand Your Window Specifications
Before ordering hundreds of graphic window films, you’ll want to measure your windows. This will help you pick the correct size for your specs. It will also help you decide whether to go with static or dynamic window film, as your window dimensions impact that decision.
Width – Determine the total width of each window from top to bottom. This will help you choose the best size for your graphics.
Height – Your height measurement will be from the top of the window frame to the bottom of the frame. This will let you know if you need to choose a tall or short graphic, depending on your window.
Graphic Type – Depending on how you want to apply your window graphics, you may need to measure the size of the actual window opening. If applying to glass, you need to subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements to account for the vinyl’s thickness.
Understand Your Printing Options
You’ve got two major options for printing your window graphics: UV or solvent inks and digital printing.
UV printing is a quick and efficient method that produces high-quality graphics and dries quickly. It is also the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective option. This is because it uses special lights to dry the inks. UV inks are applied during printing, whereas solvent inks are applied afterward.
UV printing has been around for years and is the industry standard for printed graphics.
On the other hand, solvent printing has been the industry standard for car wraps for many years. It’s a fast-drying method that can be used on a variety of materials, including vinyl, fabric, and others. The main problem with solvent printing is that it can give off dangerous fumes and smells, so it can’t be used inside.
How to Choose a Print Size
You may have already limited your options to tall or short graphics, but that doesn’t mean you can’t combine them. If you choose tall prints, pair them with short prints, or vice versa. If you have tall prints on both sides of the building, you might want to use short prints on low-rise windows.
Aside from that, you’ll want to make sure you’re picking the right size for your company. Following the general rule of inches as feet is a good rule of thumb. So, if you want a 6″ tall print, multiply by 18 ‘. If you use the standard 24″ tall graphics, that equates to 48’.
How to Choose Print Dimensions
The dimensions of your print will determine how large it appears on your window and how well it blends in with the surrounding frames.
The dimensions of your frame will determine the size of your print. Frame sizes range from the standard 8-by-10-inch to a 16-by-20-inch frame, with the latter being more common. Once you have your frame size, you can determine the best print size for your frame. Keep in mind that certain print dimensions will blend in better than others. Larger prints will stand out more prominently than smaller ones, even if they’re in a smaller frame.
You can choose a size that goes naturally with the surrounding frames and will blend in while standing out enough to be noticeable and read as advertising.
The Bottom Line
The right window graphic can do wonders for your business, but you have to get it right.
When you choose the right designs, graphics, and print sizes and dimensions, you can make the perfect window graphics for your business and enjoy the benefits for years to come.
That’s why it’s important to consider all the factors above before making a final selection. If you want to know more about custom graphics, feel free to reach out to Brower Tinting and Graphics by giving us a call today!