One-way vision graphics are printed on perforated film so you see the image outside and the view inside. Boldmedia Print Zimbabwe prints one-way vision for shopfronts, offices and vehicle rear windows. Lamination options help them last longer outdoors.
One-way vision graphics are printed on perforated vinyl — a film with a pattern of tiny holes. From outside, the eye sees the printed image; from inside, the dark backing and the holes let people see out through the glass. This makes it possible to brand a whole window while keeping light and visibility for the people working behind it. It is widely used on shopfronts, offices, bus and car rear windows, and reception glass.
Compared with standard opaque window vinyl, one-way vision keeps the view out; compared with clear printed vinyl, it gives stronger, more solid-looking colour from the outside. The effect works best when it is brighter outside than inside, so at night with interior lights on the view reverses. A good one-way vision job uses a perforation ratio suited to the use, is laminated where it is exposed and avoids fine text, which the holes can break up.
Where it works well
- Shopfront windows needing outward visibility
- Office and reception glass branding
- Rear windows of cars, bakkies and vans
- Bus and minibus side windows where permitted
- Security desk and guardhouse windows
- Glass partitions in clinics and banks
Materials and finishes
- Perforated vinyl in different hole ratios
- Optically clear laminate for outdoor or vehicle use
- Black-backed film for clearer view out
- Removable perforated films for campaigns
What affects the price
- Glass area covered
- Perforation ratio of the film
- Lamination for durability
- Building or vehicle application
- Number of windows
- Access and installation time
Supplying measurements
Measure each window's visible glass size and indicate whether it is a building window or vehicle glass. For vehicles, give the make and model so we can work from a template.
Artwork requirements
Supply high-resolution CMYK artwork with bold images and large text, as fine lines and small type are broken up by the perforations. Vector logos (PDF, AI, EPS or SVG) give the best result.
Survey and installation
One-way vision film is applied to the outside of the glass for the effect to work. On vehicles, film is kept off areas where the driver's legally required view must remain clear.
Maintenance
Wash gently with soapy water and a soft sponge, without scrubbing into the perforations. In wet weather, water can temporarily fill the holes and reduce the view out until it dries.
Frequently asked questions
Can people outside see into the room?
During the day the printed side reflects most of the view, so people outside mainly see the graphic. At night with lights on inside, the effect can reverse.
Can one-way vision be used on vehicle windows?
Yes, on rear and side windows where regulations allow, but not on the windscreen or driver's side windows.
Why should text be large?
The perforations remove part of the print, so small text becomes hard to read.