We have put together the most frequently asked question regarding window lettering. If you do not see your question, please contact us we will be happy to assist you.
How to apply
Ambient and Surface temperatures must be above 55F for vinyl to adhere properly.
Tools Required:
- Tape Measure
- Masking Tape
- Squeegee (provided by us)
Application Steps:
- Read all of our directions first!
- Clean the window well to avoid dust and oil under the vinyl.
- Without removing the backing, place sign exactly in the position it is to be located.
- Hold everything temporarily into place with masking tape.
- Step back and see how it looks.
- Once applied, it cannot be repositioned.
- Measure twice to assure accuracy, measure from the flat areas on numbers and letters.
- Apply a piece of masking tape across the entire top edge, to make a hinge.
- Fold the sign back along the tape hinge.
- Remove the backing (back side), revealing the sticky side (Only remove the backing - DO NOT remove the transfer tape - Front Side)
- CAUTION: Do not allow the sign to fall freely on the surface or it will stick there and potentially ruin the vinyl if you try to remove it.
- ** Hold the sign away from the surface. With a squeegee (plastic spatula, bondo applicator, etc.) carefully begin to squeegee down the top 1 to 2 inches along the top edge. Work from the hinge down, squeegee down and out over the remaining sign area, but be careful not to trap any air bubbles behind the vinyl.
- Remove the transfer tape by slowly peeling it back from the sign.
- The sign will remain in place if it has been firmly applied.
- If any air bubbles appear, puncture with a pin and squeeze the area to flatten the bubbles.
- Tiny bubbles will disappear over time with the heat of the sun.
Video Training on Window Letters
How long will my window lettering last?
All of our vinyl lettering is made to last 3-5 years sustained outdoors. We use calendared oracal vinyl by default. However, you can upgrade to premium cast vinyl and extend the life of your project to 8 years. Considering a lot of windows are sheltered out of direct sunlight it would be possible to get considerably longer life without cracking or fading. If you choose to put your window letters on the inside of the window it last as long as you want to have it stuck to the window.
Inside or Outside? Reversed or Not?
Generally if you can put your lettering on the inside of the window you should because it will last longer. This is mainly because of the drastic changes in temperatures reacting with the vinyl. There is a few situations where you will not have the option whether to use reveresed lettering or not. This is mainly if you have a tinted window. For tinted windows you will have to stick your lettering on the outside. This may seem obvious but people have made the honest mistake of forgetting their windows were tinted before.
Is your window lettering permanent?
In the sign industry the type of vinyl we use is considered permanent class vinyl only because it is not temporary vinyl. This can be confusing to customers that may know a little about the business. Basically all vinyl as far as we are aware can be removed from whatever surface it has been attached to. The vinyl we use is classed as permanent because it will last so long on the window. 3+ years is a long time so it is considered permanent. You can remove it without damaging the window. Ready below as to how!
How to remove vinyl window lettering
Tools Required:
- Hair Dryer
- Flat Razor Blade
- Strong Window Cleaner or Adhesive Remover such as goo off
- Paper Towels
The removal process for window lettering is pretty straight forward. The difficulty will depend on the type of vinyl that was used and the length it was on the window. Start by heating the vinyl on the window with your hair dryer, you will need to get it more than warm. You will need to hold the heat on it 5-10 seconds per 8" letter height. Again depending on various factors you may be able to use your hand and peel the vinyl off. Typically you will need to use your razor to start it peeling. Continue this process until all the vinyl is removed from the window. After the vinyl is remove cover the window is your prefered window cleaner or adhesive remover. A short time to soak will loosen the adhesive it should scrape off with your razor now. Clean up with your paper towels.
