Removal
Removing CLEAR FOCUS Window Graphics Films
CLEAR FOCUS window graphics printed on premium films (e.g., ImageVue and ClassicVue) should remove cleanly up to about six months after installation. Economy films (e.g., EconoVue 60/40, 70/30 and 80/20) should remove cleanly up to about three months. Please refer to the individual product data sheet for more information.
Certain conditions, such as excessive heat, glass color and prolonged installation, can increase the film's adhesion to the glass or other mounting surface. Additionally, the more print surface there is (e.g., 70% or 80%), the more pressure-sensitive adhesive will come in contact with the mounting surface. Removal of EconoVue 70/30 and 80/20 may therefore require more time.
To remove, peel up one corner or edge of the film and pull the film away from the window. The film should peel off easily in strips or sections. In areas where the film does not remove cleanly, spray the area liberally with a solvent-based glass cleaner (e.g., Windex®). Let sit for a minute or two, then remove the film. If necessary, use a single-edged industrial razor blade to scrape off any residue.
For stubborn graphics, an adhesive remover called Rapid Remover™, produced by RapidTac Inc. of Merlin, Oregon, has been recommended by a number of professional installers. Rapid Remover is a non-toxic, water-soluble solution that breaks down and removes adhesives. For more information on this product, contact RapidTac www.rapidtac.com.
Some installers use a heat source, such as a hair dryer, sun lamp, heat lamp or heat gun, to soften and remove particularly stubborn vinyl graphics. In such cases, extreme care must be taken so as not to overheat the glass on which the graphics are installed. Use this method only if you are an experienced installer, and carefully follow the instructions of the heating-device manufacturer. Do not use a heat source if the glass has any defects or cracks. Also, do not use a heat source on windows that are cold (under about 60° F/15.5° C); the abrupt change in temperature from cold to hot might damage the glass.
After all the film has been removed, wash the windows using whatever window-cleaning method you normally use.
