From vibrant retail displays that help catch the attention of otherwise busy passers-by to frosted privacy graphics designed to block out those very same prying eyes, clear printable media is regarded as a key player in today’s visual communication landscape.
As true as this may be, it is not quite as simple as heading over to your usual materials suppliers and picking the first clear product you see on the shelf. Not all clear films are created equal, with each of them offering their own unique set of qualities and attributes.
To identify which one is best for the application you are working on, you must first understand each type of clear material. In total, there are four core categories: optically clear, contact clear, near-clear, and translucent.
Starting with optically clear, these materials are virtually invisible when applied to a surface, offering more than 99% clarity to the customer. For this reason, it makes them an effective solution for use in work such as high-end retail, glazing, and layered window graphics.
Next are contact clear products, which are full-contact adhesives that are often wet-applied for clean visual effect. Common uses include decals, glass signage, and semi-permanent window graphics.
You may also consider near-clear solutions. Supplied as clear films with a slight haze, these offer an excellent visual impact at a lower cost, opening up their use in applications such as POP, temporary retail graphics, and semi-permanent signage.
Finally, translucent films diffuse the light that passes through them, making them an ideal choice for frosted effects and privacy-style installations, as well as decorative patterns and interior branding.
Drytac has solutions across all four of these categories. With optically clear, the aptly named ViziPrint Impress Clear is a versatile solution for self-adhesive applications on glass and other smooth, flat surfaces. Similarly, ViziPrint Deco+ is a high-quality clear window film ideal for high-end architectural and building requirements, as well as custom decorating applications.
Looking to contact clear, Drytac has Polar Premium Clear, a permanent polymeric PVC film that can be used across substrates including windows, exhibition stands, vehicles and other smooth surfaces. Also in this category is Polar Dynamic Clear, a premium gloss and printable PVC film that is often used for general signage, point-of-sale display, and window, floor and vehicle graphics.
As for near-clear solutions, Drytac has two primary products, the first of which is SpotOn Clear Gloss. This monomeric PVC film is well suited to short-term applications including POP and retail signage, trade show and exhibition graphics, and office interiors. Also from Drytac in this segment is ReTac Clear PET, a PVC-free film for windows, walls, and counter-top graphics.
Turning finally to translucent, a popular option from Drytac is Polar Frost Air, a matte polymeric film with a subtle embossed finish that simulates the elegant look of etched glass.
Still not sure which one is right for you? Think of it this way; if you need invisible clarity, go for an optically clear PET; for strong adhesion, it’s contact clear films; if you want an easy install, try out near-clear options; and for privacy or decoration, translucent is your go-to.
While the opportunities may be apparent, only by working with the right materials will you open a clear route to new revenue for your business.
Authored by Cathy Radoncic, Northeast Territory Manager US, Drytac
