Signs and canopies

Window graphics and manifestation

Window graphics are vinyl lettering, printed film or frosted panels applied to shop glass. Manifestation is a specific type: markings placed on clear glass at eye level so that people see it and do not walk into it. One job can cover both, with branded bands serving as safety markings.

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Frosted vinyl manifestation on a shop door and window

When is this the right choice?

Window graphics suit shops that want opening hours, brand panels or privacy on the glass without new signs. They are a low-cost choice for short leases, offices that need screening, treatment rooms and clinics. Manifestation is needed wherever large clear glazing could be mistaken for an opening, so it should be part of any glazing project and not an afterthought.

What are the options?

Cut vinyl letteringIndividually cut letters show names, hours and contact details, applied inside or outside the glass.

Frosted or etched filmThis gives privacy and a sandblasted look, in plain panels or with cut-out logos.

Full-colour printed filmDigital print covers promotions or whole-window branding.

One-way vision filmPerforated film shows graphics from outside and keeps a view out from inside.

Manifestation bandsDots, bands or logos are set in the two safety zones, so large panes can be seen.

Removable filmLow-tack film suits short campaigns and comes off cleanly when the campaign ends.

How much do window graphics cost?

Window graphics usually cost £145 to £895 ex VAT per frontage, supplied and fitted. Glass area, film type, print coverage and the amount of cutting set the price, as does removing old vinyl. Manifestation on its own sits toward the lower end. Work at height, out-of-hours application and artwork changes can add to it. We confirm it all in a written quote.

Guide prices exclude VAT. Your written quote is fixed after survey.

What is the specification?

Manifestation zones (England)	Approved Document K: 850 to 1000 mm and 1400 to 1600 mm above floor level
Film	Cast or polymeric vinyl, typically 50 to 100 microns
Application	Applied to clean glass, on the inside or outside face
One-way vision	Perforated film, typically 50/50 or 70/30 print to hole ratio
Typical lead time	1 to 2 weeks from approved artwork (typical range)

How does the job run?

Measure the glass
We measure each pane and decide which face of the glass the film should go on.
Set out the design
The layout is drawn over your frontage, with manifestation bands placed in the right zones.
Print and cut
Film is printed, cut and laminated where needed, then labelled for each pane.
Clean and apply
Old vinyl is removed, the glass is cleaned, and film is applied and checked for bubbles and lifting edges.

Common questions

Is manifestation a legal requirement?

Yes, where clear glazing could be walked into. In England, building regulations guidance is in Approved Document K, and workplace regulations also require transparent doors and walls to be marked where needed for safety. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own guidance, so we confirm what applies.

Where should manifestation go on glass?

In England, Approved Document K gives two zones: 850 to 1000 mm and 1400 to 1600 mm above floor level. The marks should contrast with the background in any light. A logo or pattern can do the job, if it is large enough to be seen.

Do I need permission for window graphics?

Often not, but it depends. In England, many signs inside the glass have deemed consent, though lit displays, external signs and listed buildings can raise issues. Your lease may also restrict window graphics. Rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so ask before you print.

Will vinyl damage my glass?

No, not when it is properly applied and removed from standard glass. Older adhesive can leave residue, which we clean off. Dark films on sealed units or laminated glass can build up heat in direct sun, so we check the glass type before applying.

Can graphics go on the inside of the glass?

Yes, and it is often the better option. Inside-applied graphics avoid weather and cleaning wear, and reverse printing reads correctly from the street. Outside application suits some textured or coated glass and certain one-way vision jobs.

Which materials go with this?

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