Hey there’s lots of reasons to install a rear window graphic on your car or truck. Most of the time people want to show their spirit by putting their favorite sports team logo on their rear window. Others may want to be patriotic and show an American flag graphic, an eagle, or maybe a Marine Corp logo.

Rear window graphics are usually digitally printed images on perforated vinyl film. What’s perforated vinyl? Think of it like a screen material with thousands of tiny holes cut out of a solid sheet of automotive grade vinyl film. You can see through this material just like you can a window or door screen.

But, because one side of the material is digitally printed, it makes it hard to see through in that direction. So when you install the rear window graphic it will be hard to see into the vehicle, but easy to see out of the vehicle.

Here are some steps you can take in order to install your rear window graphic properly:

You will need a plastic squeegee, rubbing alcohol, razor blades and an exacto knife (or similar)

First, Make sure to clean the window with plenty of rubbing alcohol. Also, use a razor blade (at your own risk) to scrape off any surface bumps or anything that is stuck top the window what will interfere with your new graphic.

Next, position the widow graphic to your liking over the window and hold down with masking tape if necessary.

Next, peel back the liner from one half of the graphic and start squeegeeing it down from the center out. Use overlapping strokes and firm pressure to ensure a good bond. Repeat for the other half of the graphic.

Next, go over the entire graphic again using the squeegee and pressing well into all edges of the window trim.

Trim the graphic along the edges of the window molding using a sharp knife or razor. Trim all the way around and peel away the excess vinyl.

Again, re-squeegee the edges of the vinyl outward towards the window molding to ensure good adhesion. Tuck any showing edges underneath the window molding or just trim them away.

Stand back and enjoy your new image! From the inside of the vehicle you will have a clear view… You can even add a truck graphic kit to the sides to complete a unique flag window graphics package!

About the Author

Mike Briglia is the owner of Custom Auto Trim, an auto accessories company based out of San Diego CA. Find more information on rear window graphics at http://www.customautotrim.com/

So whether you’re looking at doing a complete overhaul, or just hoping to spruce up a bit, rest assured that CustomAutoTrim has the products you need to make your car the best at the block party this summer. And don’t forget to look below for this month’s coupon, designed to make your cool car dreams a reality.

TIP SHACK

This month, we got the question:

Hey Mike, I see a lot of those rear window flag graphics around in my town and I was wondering how hard they were to put on? Are they on the inside or the outside of the window?

Good question. Rear window graphics in general are fairly ease to install on a flat window, like on the rear window of a truck. They are installed on the outside of the glass and won’t be harmed by rain or normal washing of your vehicle. You can see an actual rear window graphic install demonstration. The demo also shows what the view is from the inside of the vehicle through the graphic image. It looks like you are looking through a screen door or window.

WRAPPING IT UP

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Alternatively, hit the reply button and I’ll get right back to you. We welcome general questions or queries, as well as comments and suggestions. Thanks for your time!

Take care, and happy driving