Popular Etchmark Window Film Features New Polyester Liner

Avery Dennison Etchmark film is a popular choice for interior office and retail decor and now it features a new, clear polyester liner that makes it cleaner and easier to apply on glass.

Architects and interior designers often create unique and inspiring workspaces with etched or frosted vinyl films on both interior and exterior windows. These graphics can range from the company logo to decor and intricate designs that create privacy for interior conference rooms.  Often, the desired look is achieved with Avery Dennison® SC 900 Supercast Series Etchmark and Frosted Sparkle films. Following are tips and techniques from Joey Heiob, technical service representative, that will help ensure a successful install.

 

Proper Window Preparation

Proper preparation of the window the graphic will be applied to is very critical to a successful application. Each window should be cleaned using a window cleaner that is ammonia free. After the window has been fully wiped down and the cleaner removed, a second and final cleaning should be done using straight isopropyl alcohol (IPA), which will remove any residue that may have been left behind by the cleaning solution used.

Type of Vinyl Being Used

Avery Dennison manufactures two specialty window films called Etchmark and Frosted Sparkle. These films are 2.0 mil cast vinyl with clear permanent pressure sensitive adhesive. These products are fully compatible with CAD plotters and have up to a 5-year outdoor durability on vertical applications.

Depending on the size, location and type of graphic being installed it may be necessary to use an application tape. For most applications a medium tack application tape will be sufficient.

 

Recommended Application Procedures

A wet application technique is generally the best method for applying these types of films on glass. The application fluid allows for easy positioning of the graphic, because it can slide into place on the glass. The fluid also helps make it easier for the installer to push out any air bubbles during the installation.

The application fluid can be a pre-mixed solution such as Rapid Tac or something you mix yourself. Two other options are an IPA and water mix (75 percent water to 25 percent IPA) or a soap and water solution of one teaspoon of soap to one gallon of water. If you are using the soap and water solution, be sure to use a soap that does not contain any perfumes or lotions, as these can cause adhesion issues to the glass.

  1. Using a spray bottle, spray the application fluid you chose on the area of the window where the graphic will be installed. Apply a generous amount.

  2. Remove the polyester liner from the graphic and position the graphic on the area where the fluid was sprayed.

  3. After the graphic has been fully squeegeed down, trim the vinyl to fit the glass.

  4. If an application tape was used, allow the application fluid a few minutes to dry and the adhesive bond to the glass build. Then remove the application tape keeping it parallel to the glass (pulling it back on itself at a 180 degree angle) to minimize the possibility of lifting the applied graphic.
 

Please note that when applying graphics to an exterior window, the surface temperature of the glass needs to be 50° or warmer. Pressure sensitive adhesives do not stick well to cold surface substrates.