See-through Window Graphics Cold Weather Application
Perforated self-adhesive films are used for a wide range of one-way vision graphics on windows and for delivering privacy and security applications. The films’ perforations typically have a diameter around 1.5mm and allow through vision from inside a building or vehicle. In time, dirt from the environment and from poorly performed cleaning can accumulate in the holes which may spoil through vision effect.
Hole blockages can be prevented by applying an unperforated optically clear overlaminate film to the perforated window film. This however adds extra cost and the see-through effect from inside can be affected.
The following practical guidance suggests how Contra Vision® Perforated Window Films can be cleaned to keep them looking and performing at their best. We recommend allowing 24 hours after installation of the window perf before any cleaning is performed.
Cleaning guidance for perforated window films installed without an overlaminate.
- Mix a solution of mild soap and sufficient water to produce plenty of suds.
- Apply the solution to the face of the applied film using a cloth or a sponge taking care when cleaning the edges and corner as all adhesive window films more vulnerable to damage in these areas if not edge sealed. Use sufficient solution to soften and wash out debris from the holes. Particularly stubborn blockages can be removed with a soft bristled brush.
- Gently wipe the perforated film wetted surface to remove settled dirt. Be careful not to scratch the ink layer if printed and only use very light pressure to avoid smearing any adhesive that may be present around the edges of the perorations.
- When you’re satisfied that the dirt in the holes is softened, wash off the soap solution with plenty of clean, soap-free water, again using the soft bristled brush to ensure that softened dirt and soap is removed from the holes.
- You can carefully blot the rinsed film to remove excess water or use a soft rubber bladed squeegee – excess water remaining in the perforations will evaporate or you can carefully use a Vacuum Squeegee. We suggest a Karcher WV5, or similar which is widely available from DIY outlets and depots.
Cleaning guidance for perforated film with an overlaminate
- Mix a solution of gentle soap and water to produce suds.
- Apply the solution to the face of the applied graphic using a microfibre cloth, taking care when cleaning the edges and corners as all adhesive window films more vulnerable to damage in these areas if not edge sealed.
- Gently wipe the overlaminated perforated film to remove settled dirt.
- When you’re satisfied that the dirt is softened, wash off the suds with plenty of clean, soap-free water.
- Dry the overlaminated graphics with a clean, wrung-out microfibre cloth again taking care with the edges and corners.
A Vacuum Squeegee can also be used to remove the loosened dirt and excess liquid. We recommend the Karcher WV5, or similar, which is widely available from DIY outlets.
General Information and precautions
Take care if you are working at height. Refer to relevant health and safety measures. Wear suitable personal protection measures such as safety glasses and gloves.
Do not use solvents or solvent based preparations such as alcohols and ammonia. Avoid any abrasive cleaning materials to tools. Dispose of packaging considerately and check local statutes regarding the use of cleaning materials and disposal of contaminated water.
Incorrect cleaning may lead to premature failure of the applied material. All adhesive window films are vulnerable to damage along the edges and corners, if not edge sealed – take extra care when cleaning these areas. When cleaning printed graphics that have not been overlaminated, consult your ink manufacturer for further guidance or conduct a test prior to cleaning.
Spray cleaners and automated vehicle washing equipment can be used. Please note aggressive washing can damage printed graphics.
Care must be taken:
- to ensure that any chosen cleaning products do not affect the inks
- that the spray is not directed at the edges of the material at an angle that can cause the edge to lift or curl off the glass
- to advise the customer that the abrasion used by the brushes used in automated washing equipment will over time cause some scratching and fading of unlaminated graphics
- we do not recommend the use of grime-busters and other powerful jet washing equipment if the material is overlaminated – the pressure can puncture the material in the perforated areas. Use a fan-lance and a low power setting with cold water only.
