See-through Window Graphics Cold Weather Application

As temperatures drop, have you considered whether your chosen perforated window film is suitable for low-temperature application?

All self-adhesive vinyl, including perforated window films, has a minimum application temperature, and cold conditions can make installation challenging or even impossible. When temperatures fall below this minimum, the adhesive can become hard, preventing the material from bonding effectively to the glass.

Our extensive testing shows that Contra Vision® perforated window films can be reliably applied at 4°C/39°F, and our exclusive Contra Vision® AutoGraph™ for overlaminated* applications can be applied at temperatures as low as 0°C/32°F.

These thresholds are notably lower than other perforated films, which typically require a minimum application temperature of 10°C/50°F.

Some customers have reported success at even lower temperatures, down to below freezing point in good, dry conditions on static (non-vehicular) applications.

*Please note that our ES-CL50CY clear gloss cast edge sealing tape isn’t approved for application at 0°C/32°F, but we’re currently testing a product that will perform effectively in these conditions.

The minimum application temperature of 4°C/39°F refers to the temperature of the glass, not the air temperature, as glass can stay colder than the surrounding air. For cold-weather installations, we recommend applying Contra Vision perforated window films in the afternoon, ideally after the sun has had a chance to warm the glass. The temperature should remain above 0°C/32°F for at least 12 hours after application and should not drop below -5°C/23°F within the first 24 hours.

During the winter months, storage temperatures can drop significantly, so we recommend that the material is warmed to room temperature well before application. The same applies when transporting graphics—ensure the material reaches room temperature before applying and avoid leaving it in a cold vehicle overnight.

If temperatures don’t reach our minimum application threshold of 4°C/39°F, consider applying see-through graphics to the inside of a window. This can be done by printing our clear perforated window film with the image, followed by black and white backing layers. For high-definition, long-term applications, we offer Contra Vision® Performance HD™ Clear; for short-term needs, consider Contra Vision® Campaign™ Clear.

1. In colder months storage temperatures can significantly drop. Avoid leaving graphics overnight in a cold environment such as a vehicle. We recommend that the material is warmed to ‘room temperature’ before application.
2. If possible, apply your graphics in the afternoon once the windows have been warmed by the sun. Investigate other steps to raise the temperature of the glass, perhaps retracting any awnings or leaving the heating on overnight. Don’t use a heat gun to warm the glass or it may shatter.
3. Ensure that the surface is dry and free from any condensation and thoroughly clean the surface from dust, grease or any contamination that could affect the adhesion of the material.
4. Application must be dry, ensuring that the graphics are cut back from the edge of the window by 1-3mm (3/16”-1/8”) and that all joins are butt joins. Do not overlap.
5. We recommend that the graphics are not cleaned for a minimum of 24 hours after installation. Do not use a chemical adhesion promoter.