Perforated vs. Non-Perforated Vinyl for Retail Windows: Which Is Right for You?
Retail window graphics are one of the most powerful tools for catching attention, promoting your brand, and turning foot traffic into sales. But when it comes to choosing the right material, many business owners find themselves asking:
Should I go with perforated vinyl or non-perforated vinyl?
Both options have unique advantages depending on your visibility goals, lighting conditions, and privacy needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences and help you choose the right solution for your storefront.
What Is Perforated Vinyl?
Perforated vinyl is a printable film with tiny holes (usually 50/50 or 60/40 perforation patterns), allowing one-way visibility. From the outside, people see your graphic. From the inside, you can still see out—similar to looking through tinted glass.
Best for:
Maintaining natural light inside
Providing privacy without sacrificing design
Full-window coverage without blocking the view
What Is Non-Perforated Vinyl?
Non-perforated vinyl is solid and opaque, offering full visual impact with no see-through capability. It’s printed with vibrant colors and completely blocks visibility from both sides when applied directly to glass.
Best for:
Bold, high-impact visuals
Blocking unsightly views from the inside
Maximum design detail and color saturation
Key Differences Between Perforated and Non-Perforated Vinyl
Visibility from inside
• Perforated Vinyl: Yes
• Non-Perforated Vinyl: No
Color vibrancy
• Perforated Vinyl: Moderate
• Non-Perforated Vinyl: High
Natural light
• Perforated Vinyl: Partially allowed
• Non-Perforated Vinyl: Fully blocked
Privacy
• Perforated Vinyl: One-way visibility
• Non-Perforated Vinyl: Complete privacy (from both sides)
Installation location
• Perforated Vinyl: Outside glass (laminate recommended for durability)
• Non-Perforated Vinyl: Inside or outside
Durability
• Perforated Vinyl: Shorter outdoor lifespan (lamination extends life)
• Non-Perforated Vinyl: Longer lifespan and more weather-resistant
When to Choose Perforated Vinyl
Choose perforated vinyl if:
You want store employees or customers to still see outside.
Your windows receive a lot of natural light, and you don’t want to block it.
You’re installing large graphics and want privacy during the day.
You want to advertise but don’t want to create a closed-off feel.
Use case: A downtown coffee shop that wants to display branding but maintain sunlight and outward visibility.
When to Choose Non-Perforated Vinyl
Choose non-perforated vinyl if:
You want maximum design clarity and bold colors.
You need to completely cover a window (e.g., during construction or remodeling).
You're applying graphics from the inside to protect them from weather or vandalism.
You don’t need to see out—or you want to hide the interior of your space.
Use case: A retail store under renovation using vibrant graphics to block construction and maintain brand visibility.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—the best choice depends on your goals. At Wallsticker, we help clients choose the right vinyl type based on light, privacy, design needs, and long-term maintenance. We only use the industry’s best materials, including 3M perforated and non-perforated vinyl, and offer expert installation for a flawless finish.
Need help deciding what’s best for your retail space?
Get in touch with our team today for a free consultation and material sample review.