Window signage is a powerful tool for businesses to attract customers. They do so through advertising, communication messages, and reinforcing brand identity. Window signs are used from retail stores to corporate offices. However, window signage comes in different types. The particular types are useful for targeted advertising.
For example, vinyl window decals are made from adhesive-backed vinyl. They can be used for permanent branding. On the other hand, window clings are non-adhesive signages. They are ideal for temporary promotions.
In this guide, we will explore various types of window signage. We will also highlight their unique characteristics and ideal applications. We aim to help businesses to choose the most effective options for their business.
What Is Window Signage?
Window signage is a graphic that is directly applied to windows for advertising, brand awareness, and brand identity. It is also called window sign, window decal, window graphic, etc…
Window signs are used in the form of lettering, images, texts, or combinations. The primary material of window decals is vinyl. However, window cling is another popular option for window decals. This is non-adhesive.
Aside from advertising, you can use window graphics to
- hide small cracks,
- increase privacy, and
- enhance the aesthetic of your building’s outlook.
Signage can increase your sales in business effectively. An American-based survey by FedEx shows that 68% of responders to the survey purchased products or services from businesses because the signage of the business attracted them.
Different Types of Window Signs and When to Use Them
Window signage comes in different types. Each type has its own characteristics and best-use scenarios.
You can check the following in-depth discussion for popular window signage types. You will find their best use cases and particular advantages for the specific use-.
Vinyl Window Decals
Vinyl window decals are the most popular window signage materials. It is an adhesive-backed material that can be printed in various colours and designs.
You can cut the vinyl decals into any specific shape you want. Vinyl decals are mainly made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film.
According to a study by ScienceDirect,
- Its tensile strength is 55 to 80 MPa, which is equal to 7977.08 psi to 11603 psi.
- Its flexural strength is 50 to 100 MPa, and elongation at break is 10% to 50%.
All these characteristics show that vinyl decals are flexible and durable. Its ease of use makes it versatile for different advertising and branding needs.
When to Use
Vinyl signs are suitable for businesses needing permanent branding on glass surfaces. Storefronts or businesses like real estate, cleaning, pet sitting, etc., can use vinyl signage.
Because they need long-term applications in high-traffic areas, where durability and weather resistance are necessary.
Advantages
- Customisable to various colours, designs, shapes, and sizes.
- Durable and resistant to harsh weather
- Easy to install.
Temporary Window Signage
Temporary window is generally removable window signage. They include window clings, low-tack vinyl, etc.
Window Clings (Static Cling)
The term window cling refers to static cling. It is a non-adhesive film that you can apply to a glass surface through its static electricity. Static cling is very easy to install and remove, making it one of the most popular choices for temporary ads.
You can easily reposition it. When you remove this from your window glass, it will not leave any residues behind.
Low-Tack Vinyl
Low-tack vinyl uses low-tack adhesive. The low tack adhesive makes it a temporary vinyl solution that you can reposition easily.
When peeling off from the glass surface, it will not leave any sticky residues on the surface or won’t damage the surface.
When to Use
- Window clings are suitable for decorative window stickers. They are perfect for adding charm and creating themed decor in retail spaces, restaurants, boutiques, and cafes. Retailers can use clings to create vibrant and festive displays without committing to permanent graphics.
- Clings and low-tack vinyl are also ideal for temporary promotions, like short-term campaigns, seasonal decorations, and events. You can use these for retail storefront window signage or event venues. These business window signs will promote your business and drive urgency during peak shopping periods.
Advantages
- Easy to update to reflect current promotions or events.
- Low-investment for short-term use.
- Very easy to install and remove.
- You can quickly swap the designs for new promotions.
- Leaves your window glass surface clean without any residues and damage it.
Permanent Window Displays
Permanent window signs are mainly made of high-tack vinyl. They are designed for longevity and durability. They are primarily used for core branding purposes that don’t require frequent updates.
When to Use
- Permanent window displays are ideal for long-lasting brand elements. For example, business logos, mission and vision messages, business hours, etc.
Advantages
- Built to withstand the harsh weather for years. For example, in the warm, sunny, and humid climate of Brisbane, humidity can rise to 70%.
Clear Window Decals
Clear window decals are made from transparent materials, mostly from clear/transparent vinyl. Transparent window signage allows light to pass through, displaying vibrant colours and designs.
This type of signage is perfect for branding without obstructing the view outside.
When to Use
You can use clear or transparent window signage in the following usage scenarios.
- Banks and financial institutes can display logos and hours on glass doors. This ensures no obstructing visibility.
- Restaurants and cafes can use clear window signage for branding in locations with scenic views. This allows customers to enjoy the surroundings.
- High-rise office buildings can use this for branding on exterior glass walls. This maintains natural light and open views.
- Healthcare clinics can display essential information like hours, doctor schedules, etc… At the same time, this keeps the space open and less enclosed for patients.
- Retail Stores in Malls can use clear window decals for promotions and logos on storefronts. It makes the store inviting without blocking displays.
Advantages
- Offers brands subtle promotions without overwhelming the signs visually.
- Maintains the natural light flow, enhancing the ambience.
Opaque Window Decals
The last one blocks light from passing through if you think about clear window decals vs. opaque window decals. Opaque window decals are mainly used for more eye-catching advertising and brand promotions.
They are great for conveying strong messages through bold designs.
When to Use
Opaque displays are best for businesses looking to make a strong visual impact in high-traffic areas. For examples,
- Retail sales events can use opaque decals for bold “SALE” signs during major sales to attract shoppers.
- Pop-up shops display brand and event info. This is ideal for temporary, high-visibility promotions.
- Gyms and fitness centres can promote their services but keep clients private.
- Restaurants promote specials, events, or menu items in busy areas.
- Construction sites can promote new businesses on barriers to visibility.
Advantages
- Great for making bold statements and capturing customer attention.
- Highly visible, vibrant, and easy to read and see. So, messages are clear to the target audience.
- Opaque vinyl decals are highly durable and can easily last for 5 to 7 years in harsh environments.
Privacy Window Films
There are different types of privacy window films you can use. Among them, the following two are the most popular ones.
Frosted Glass Window Signs
Frosted glass window signs are made of translucent vinyl. Translucent means not transparent and not opaque. It is in the middle state of transparency and opaqueness. Translucent vinyl allows light to glow through, but the objects are not visible through the vinyl. Like normal vinyl, translucent vinyl is also made from PVC.
It creates a frosted or etched glass look on your window glasses. This privacy window film allows natural light to pass from outside to inside. At the same time, it obscures visibility from the outside.
When to Use
The privacy window film is great for spaces where privacy is the main concern, as well as for advertising the business. Frosted glass window signs are ideal for the following businesses.
- Law offices
- Medical facilities
- Therapy offices
- Doctor’s practice room
- Upscale retail stores.
All these spaces require privacy, an elegant appearance, and customer confidentiality.
Advantages
- Adds touches of elegance and professionalism to the spaces.
- Maintains natural light while providing privacy.
- Resistant to scratches and fading.
- Helps protect interiors from harmful UV rays
Perforated Window Film
The name “perforated” clears the type of the signs. Perforated window films feature millions of evenly done micro-perforation holes for one-way vision.
This means when you install perforated window graphics on your window glass, people from outside can see its graphics. But they can’t see inside. On the other hand, people inside can still see out.
When to Use
- You can use this in the same use-case scenarios as frosted glass window film signs. This will allow you to see outside from the inside of your window.
- At the same time, you can use it on your company’s vehicle windows for advertising while displaying messages without losing visibility from the inside of the vehicle.
Advantages
- Provides a level of privacy while maintaining visibility from the inside.
- Allows businesses to advertise and brand without compromising the view.
- Reduces glare and protects the inside of the window from UV rays.
Digital Window Displays
Digital window displays use screens to show changing promotional content- from static images to videos. To be specific, digital window displays are dynamic and highly engaging.
Digital window displays are getting popular day by day in Australia. Its market size was USD 324.3 million in 2023. It is expected to reach a value of USD 525 million at a CAGR of 5.4% yearly from 2024 to 2032.
When to Use
Digital window signage displays are ideal for high-traffic areas like malls or street-level shops. For example,
- Clothing stores can display seasonal outfits and promotional content to attract customers.
- Electronics stores can show product demos and tech specs to draw in tech-savvy customers.
- Restaurants and cafes can feature digital menus and daily specials.
- Real estate agencies can display property listings and virtual tours in city centres.
Advantages
- Dynamic content promotions
- Engaging visuals attract potential customers.
- Instant content change or update for special events or sales.
Seasonal Window Displays
Seasonal displays are themed decorations that change throughout the year. They often include holiday-specific promotions, festive graphics, and thematic elements.
You can use any type of window signage, such as opaque, cling, or clear window signs, based on your business for seasonal displays.
Seasonal displays can enhance customer engagement and drive sales during peak seasons regarding the niche of your promotion.
When to Use
- 11.11 Sales:
You can use large, eye-catching “11.11” graphics and countdowns in digital window displays leading up to the day. This may emphasise flash sales, limited offers, and significant discounts.
- Back-to-School Sales:
If you are a retailer who sells school bags, clothing, and stationeries, you can use seasonal window signage for promotion. Seasonal promotion in January or early February will attract students and parents.
- Summer Sales:
Many stores promote summer items with window signage. For example, beachwear and outdoor accessories with vacation elements. This is common for apparel and outdoor retailers in Australia in warmer months like December to February.
- Festival Sales:
Retail stores, cafes, and shopping malls often use festive themes with window displays. These displays can feature promotions on holiday gifts, festive menus, or end-of-year sales.
Advantages
- Aligns with current trends and customer interest.
- Eye-catching seasonal promotions draw customers’ attention easily.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Installing Window Signage
You should keep the following aspects in mind when installing your desired window signage.
Custom Window Graphics
Emphasise custom window graphics properly. Though your window graphics will be entirely customised based on your business goal, set the customisation wisely.
- Design your custom window decals that meet your specific business needs.
- Use brand-specific colours, images, and texts. They must best target the audience.
For example, use high-quality images with your signature dishes if you are a restaurant owner. For example, a delicious pizza or burger. Mention the discounts and limited-time offers you offer to attract customers.
Use Backlit Window Signs
Backlit features LED lighting to illuminate the window graphics, creating a glowing effect that is especially visible at night. You should keep in mind that your window display should advertise your business at night, too.
So, use backlit to stand out at night. Backlit is particularly perfect for restaurants, shopping malls, and other businesses that run at night.
However, you can use backlit for all types of window signage.
Size and Placement Considerations
Choosing the correct size and placement of window signage is vital for visibility and effectiveness. Here are the key considerations.
- The signage should be large enough to be seen from a standard distance. Bold and simple designs work best in high-traffic areas.
- The texts should be large and clear enough to be easily readable.
- Position signs at the eye level to capture attention. You can use the top half for branding messages and the lower half for specific promotions or information.
Regulations and Local Ordinances for Window Signage
In Australia, different states and territories have their own rules and regulations about window advertising. You have to keep the regulations and local ordinances in mind before installing your window signage.
For example, in Brisbane, for small businesses,
- You can’t cover more than 25% of the window glass panel.
- The ultimate window signage size can be a maximum of 2 square metres.
If you don’t know the rules, you should hire a local professional signage-installing service-providing company. The company is professional and knows the local government rules about all types of signage ads.
Choosing the Right Type of Window Signage for Your Business
Selecting the right type of window signage depends on multiple factors. Here is a quick overview so that you can consider them while choosing the window signage you truly need.
Set Your Brand Goal
Consider your brand goal first. Think of the images and messages that align with your brand goal.
For example, a chic cafe might opt for frosted glass signage to create a cosy atmosphere. On the other hand, a retail store may choose vibrant vinyl decals to attract attention.
Understand Your Target Audience
Understand the preferences and behaviours of your target market. Choose signage types that resonate with them and enhance their experience.
For example, a boutique fitness studio targeting health-conscious millennials should use
- vibrant window clings with motivational quotes,
- custom A-frame signs for class promotions, and
- interactive digital displays for schedules.
This strategy engages the audience, fosters community connection, and creates shareable moments. Ultimately, this will enhance the overall fitness experience and brand visibility.
Installation and Maintenance of Window Signage
Proper installation and maintenance are key. They ensure window signage lasts and works well.
Window Sign Installation Requirements
- Static cling signs can be easily installed on clean surfaces. They can also be repositioned without adhesive.
- Adhesive signage requires careful alignment along with clean surfaces. We recommend professional installation to get the best results.
Maintenance Tips
- Cleaning: Regularly clean your window signs with a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove dirt and grime.
- Inspection: Periodically check for any peeling or fading. Do this for outdoor signage that is directly exposed to environmental elements.
- Professional Help: For large and complex installation and maintenance, take professional help.
Final Words
There are different types of window signage, and they have their unique use cases. Installing particular types of window signs with proper strategy brings the best results.
For the best window decal strategy and installation in Brisbane, partner with Signage 4Business Group. We have been providing custom signage designs and signage installation for over 20 years.
We assure you that our designs and placement will stand out in terms of designs and attractions. Also, the signage we provide will last in harsh environments. This will be cost-effective for your business in the long term.