Plain-English Guide to Window Graphics Materials & Names People Mix Up

MIL

Window graphics material is often measured in MILs. A MIL equals one thousandth of an inch (.oo1″) or 25 microns.

Ply

Depending on the design and the installation location, there may be multiple layers of window graphics materials used. Each layer is referred to as a “ply.”

For example, a simple 1-ply graphic is a single layer of material while a 2-ply graphic will have one layer of material on top of another. Multiple layers will often be used to address potential environmental concerns a graphic might face.

Mylar

Mylar is a brand of polyester films. Over time the name has become shorthand to mean simply any polyester film material. (Sort of how Kleenex is used for tissues.)

Static Cling

This is a generic term that the public will often use to describe window film material. It is a misnomer as often adhesives are what is actually used to hold a window graphic in place.

Window Decal Material

A catch-all term popular with consumers, it is used to describe stickers, decals, signs, and professional-grade window film material.

Architectural Vinyl

More of a description than an actual product. It’s a term used to describe, in general, material that is used in an architectural setting.

Vinyl

Many materials for window graphics are called “vinyl” when they are actually polyester or PET.

Eco Film / Green Film

When many buildings are looking for LEED certification and many building owners want to meet sustainability demands they can turn to recycled window graphics materials and/or low-VOC printing compatibilities.

PET

PET, or polyethylene terephthalate (a specific type of polyester), is a window film.

PVC

PVC, or Polvinyl chloride, has been a popular window film material. It is a versatile material making it a top choice particularly for a number of indoor installations.

Privacy Film

A material that hides material differences affecting clarity, durability, and removal.

Color Profile

Color profiles will be generated by a printer based on the window graphics material being used. The profile will enable the printer and designer to work together to ensure that the designer’s intentions are accurately matched in the finished product.

Overlaminate

A clear, protective layer that will be placed directly on top of a printed piece. It is often added to provide additional protection from UV and other environmental concerns.

UV Curable Inks

UV curable inks won’t produce hazardous fumes when used. They will also dry rapidly and can be used to print vibrant, high-quality prints.

UV curable inks are a popular choice to use with flatbed and roll to roll printing.

Curing Time

This is the amount of time it takes from when printing begins to when all inks are dry and a graphic is ready for installation.

Daylight Gap

If a graphic is installed from edge-to-edge but it doesn’t sit flush, that thin open space is known as the daylight gap.