Printed graphics are an excellent way of transforming glazing into bespoke, professional looking displays, suitable for advertising and branding or simply to add an extra element of interest to the appearance of a building. By using Contra Vision® and creating one-way graphics, the opportunities increase still further. Once installed, full colour printed designs are clearly visible from the exterior, whilst those inside the building will retain their view through the glass. The image on the right shows the view from the exterior (graphics visible) next to the view from the interior (view to outside maintained).
There is a Contra Vision® solution suitable for almost any situation. Most installations take place on the internal face of glass as this ensures a longer life for the film, but for occasions when an internal fitting isn’t possible, there are also a range of products suitable for external installation.
Contra Vision® Performance™
This is the most commonly understood method of creating one-way graphics, with the effect created by printing onto a perforated film. The one-way effect can be achieved in two ways. The first option is to print directly onto the film using traditional CMYK colour printing process. The alternative is to print the image in reverse onto the back of the film, followed by a layer of white ink, then a layer of black. This process ensures the graphics are visible from the outside, whilst the view is maintained from the interior.
Contra Vision® BACKLITE™
In the past, see-through graphics have suffered from a reduced impact at night. Without external illumination, the internal lights of buildings can result in the graphic appearing washed out or dull. Contra Vision® BACKLITE™ addresses this issue, with the perforated, translucent white backing to the film using any internal light to back-light the graphics during darker periods. This method is particularly beneficial for situations where there is activity during the premises at night, for example late night shopping.
Contra Vision® Impress™
Contra Vision® is widely associated with the use of perforations or small dots to create the one-way performance, but by using the patented Impress print method, it is possible to create impressive see-through graphics on non-perforated clear window films. The effect is achieved by printing several layers of ink, starting with the image in CMYK, followed by a layer of white before finishing with a layer of black.
The Impress™ method delivers not only a more sturdy, robust film, but also allows for a double-design, with a different image visible on each side of the glass.
The Window Film Company is proud to be able to offer each of these methods, alongside the other patented techniques and technology offered by Contra Vision®, so for details on how you can deliver one-way graphics onto your building, contact a member of the team on 01494 794477.
