REAR WINDOW / PERFORATED VINYL
Rear window
graphic installation.
Install your rear window graphic, one half at a time. Follow the center-hinge method for a smooth, accurate finish.
Get ready to installBEFORE YOU BEGIN
Set yourself up for a clean finish.
Read the steps before removing the backing. A second pair of hands makes a large graphic easier to position.
For printed, perforated rear-window film. For solid body or tailgate decals, use the standard vinyl guide.
Choose a clean, sheltered area at room temperature. Recommended: 15–30°C / 59–86°F. Avoid hot glass, cold glass and wind.
Gather your tools
- Felt-edge squeegeeA clean, soft edge protects the print.
- Glass cleanerAmmonia-free and residue-free.
- Lint-free clothsOne for cleaning, one for drying.
- Masking tapeLow-tack tape for positioning and the hinge.
- ScissorsFor the loose backing paper only.
- Trimming toolFor oversized film; controlled cutting is essential.
Before you peel the backing: check the artwork, size and window layout. The glass must be completely dry. For sliding or divided windows, plan each pane separately and keep all moving joints clear.
LET’S GET IT ON THE GLASS
Eight steps. Take your time.
Orange shows masking tape or the direction of movement. Illustrations use a fixed rear window.
Clean and dry the glass
A clean surface makes the difference.
Wash the outside of the window. Remove dirt, grease and any residue with a glass-safe, ammonia-free cleaner that leaves no coating.
Dry with a fresh lint-free cloth. Clean right up to the seals, then let the edges dry completely.
RememberRemove water-repellent or ceramic coatings before installation. Film may not bond properly to a treated surface.
Position the graphic
Keep the backing paper on.
Hold the graphic against the outside of the glass with the printed side facing out. Check the artwork is level and covers the intended area.
Use short pieces of masking tape at the top corners to hold it in place. If the graphic is oversized, leave excess around the edges for trimming.
RememberCheck the size and position before peeling anything. Keep the high-mounted brake light and any required clear areas unobstructed.
Make a center hinge
This keeps the artwork in position.
Run a vertical strip of masking tape down the middle of the graphic, securing it to the vehicle above and below the window.
For a large graphic, add another strip beside it. Remove the positioning tape from only the half you will apply first.
RememberThe center tape stays in place while you install the first half.
Peel back the first half
Separate the film from its backing.
Fold the first half back over the center hinge. Carefully peel its backing paper away until you reach the hinge.
Hold the loose paper away from the vehicle and cut it off with scissors. Keep the exposed adhesive off the glass until you are ready to squeegee.
RememberCut the backing paper only. Keep scissors clear of the graphic, glass, paint and seals; avoid touching the adhesive.
Apply the first half
From the hinge toward the outer edge.
Hold the loose film slightly away from the glass without stretching it. Start at the center hinge with a felt-edge squeegee.
Use firm, overlapping strokes, moving outward a little at a time. Let the squeegee bring the film onto the glass.
RememberKeep the loose film off the glass ahead of the squeegee. Do not drop the whole half onto the window at once.
Apply the second half
Repeat the same controlled movement.
Once the first half is firmly attached, remove the center hinge tape and the remaining positioning tape.
Lift the loose half and peel away its backing gradually. Squeegee from the installed center toward the opposite edge, with overlapping strokes.
RememberKeep the artwork relaxed. Pulling or stretching can distort the print and cause the edges to lift later.
Trim around the window
Leave a small clearance at the seals.
If supplied oversized, remove the excess using a suitable precision trimming method. Leave approximately 1–3 mm (0.04–0.12 in) between the film and the rubber seal or window edge.
Keep the film entirely on the glass. Remove the offcuts slowly, then check the corners. A pre-cut graphic may not need trimming.
RememberA blade can scratch glass and damage seals or paint. If you cannot control the cut safely, have an experienced installer do this step.
Press the edges and inspect
One final pass before you finish.
Using the felt edge, re-squeegee the entire graphic. Pay particular attention to the perimeter and every corner.
Check that the film sits flat, with no folds or lifted edges. Inspect the view from inside the cab before driving.
RememberIf you see a stubborn crease or an edge that will not stay down, pause and send SupDec a photo before trying heat or further cutting.
AFTER INSTALLATION
Give the adhesive time to bond.
Keep the graphic dry and avoid washing or handling the edges. Follow any longer waiting period supplied with your order.
Keep it looking good
- After the initial bonding period, wash gently with mild soap, water and a soft cloth.
- Avoid abrasive pads, solvents and ammonia-based cleaners on the printed film.
- Keep pressure washers and automatic wash brushes away from the film and its edges.
- Inspect the edges periodically. If an edge lifts, ask SupDec for advice before it collects dirt.
A LITTLE EXTRA HELP
Common installation questions.
Should I spray the glass or adhesive with water?
No. This is a dry application. You may wash the glass beforehand, but the glass, its edges and the adhesive must be dry when the film is applied.
Does the graphic go inside or outside?
This guide is for an exterior rear-window graphic. Apply it to the outside of the glass, with the printed side facing out. It does not cover solid tailgate decals or inside-applied film.
What if my rear window has a sliding center section?
Each pane must remain separate. Do not bridge a moving joint, rubber seal or opening with one continuous piece of film. Confirm the layout with SupDec before cutting; keep the sliding section closed until the adhesive has bonded.
What should I do about a wrinkle or trapped air?
While applying, stop before the wrinkle is pressed down. If the film lifts easily, gently lift only the affected section and re-squeegee it without stretching. Do not puncture the print or use strong heat to force out a crease. Send us a photo if you are unsure.
Is there a top layer to remove?
The backing paper is removed from the adhesive side. Leave any clear protective laminate on the graphic. If a separate application tape was supplied, follow the instructions for that order or ask SupDec before removing a layer.
Why is the view less clear in rain or at night?
Perforated film changes the view through the glass. Water in the holes, low light and existing window tint can reduce visibility further. Check your view in the conditions you drive in and do not drive if it is obstructed.
Something doesn’t look right?
Pause before cutting or stretching the film. Send us your order number and a clear photo of the issue so we can help.