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Removing Perforated Films

June 3rd, 2019

One of the most common questions we receive about perforated films is the ease of removal. Here are some of the factors that may determine how easy it is to remove perforated window film:

The Hole Pattern

An 80/20 (80 percent image / 20 percent holes) will typically remove easier than a 65/35 or 50/50 window film. More vinyl typically means there is less chance that the vinyl will rip when removing. We recommend using the PanoRama Innova 80/20 from Continental Grafix. This product prints with ease on latex, solvent and UV curable.

Using a thicker, premium perforated film

Clear Focus offers an 8 mil Image Vue or Classic Vue, will typically remove easier than a less costly 4 or 6mil thinner vinyl. The thicker vinyl does not rip as easily as a thinner vinyl.

Laminating

Laminating the perforated film with an optically clear laminate- like Quality Cast Gloss Plus laminate will make removal easier and prevent the vinyl from ripping into strips.

Location

If the perforated window film is in a hot temperature, southern location that receives a lot of sunlight, this will cause the adhesive to bond better to the window than a northern location.

Window Surface

The quality of the glass- inferior brands of glass often cause the adhesive to have a higher tack than a quality brand of glass. Adhesives have much higher tack to plexiglass than glass.

How long is the graphic expected to be up on the window?

The longevity of the installation- review the manufacturers recommended longevity and choose an appropriate perforated window film.

 

Tips for Removal

First step for removal- pull the top edge of the graphic down by 2-3 inches. Slowly pull down at 180-degree angle across the graphic. This will break the adhesive bond.

Do not pull from one corner as this will often leave excessive adhesive residue or cause the graphic to rip.

If the vinyl/ film is not releasing, carefully heat the graphic starting at the top and pull down at 180 degrees. The heat will soften the adhesive and should allow it to release.

If you are still having issues removing the graphic another solution would be to liberally spray the graphic with a mixture of soapy water, then apply a release liner (from a laminate or adhesive vinyl), and wait 15 minutes. Often the soapy water mixture will penetrate the vinyl/ film and aid in the removal.

If you end up with a brittle graphic that has released in strips, spray the graphic with isopropyl alcohol, wait 10-15 minutes, then carefully remove the graphic with a razor knife.