How to Measure Windows for Perforated See-Through Graphics
Perforated window film is printed to a size, so good measurements are the foundation of a graphic that looks right. Whether it is a storefront pane or a vehicle back glass, a few careful numbers make the difference between a clean fit and visible gaps.
Measure the visible glass, not the frame
On storefronts, measure the glass you can actually see between gaskets, mullions, or frame edges. On vehicles, measure the glass inside the rubber seal or black ceramic border. Take the width at the top, middle, and bottom, and the height at the left, center, and right. Use the smallest numbers, since window openings are rarely perfectly square.
Account for the black dot border on vehicle glass
Most vehicle rear windows have a band of black dots, called the frit, around the edge. Film generally does not lie well over the heaviest part of that pattern. Note where the solid black band ends and plan your graphic to sit inside that line, or mention the frit when you request a layout.
Note anything that interrupts the glass
- Rear wipers and their pivot points
- Third brake lights mounted on or near the glass
- Door handles, push bars, and locks on storefront doors
- Existing hours decals, alarm stickers, or permits that need to stay visible
A quick phone photo of each window with a tape measure in view helps a designer place text and logos away from these spots.
Curved and multi-pane windows
Many vehicle back glasses curve in two directions. Measure along the surface with a flexible tape rather than straight across with a rigid one, since the curve adds length. For storefronts with several panes, measure each pane separately and number them left to right so the artwork can be split cleanly at each mullion.
Decide how much glass to cover
You do not have to cover an entire window. Partial coverage, such as a band across the lower half of a storefront, keeps more natural light in while still showing your message. Write down the coverage area you want in addition to the full glass size.
A simple measuring sheet
- Window name or number
- Smallest width and smallest height of visible glass
- Frit or frame border depth, if any
- Obstructions and where they sit
- Desired coverage area
With this sheet and a few photos, a perforated graphic can be laid out to fit the first time.
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