Services
Black borders
What it is
What is a black border?
A black border is a matte black edge on the inside of the glass. It hides interior trim, fixings and sealant joints from view, so from outside all you see is an even black surface around the window. Without a black border, you look straight onto the structure behind the window; with one, the view stays calm and clean.
We apply black borders as film on the inside of the glass, so the interior stays out of view from outside. Applied oversized and trimmed to size for a clean, straight edge.
Film instead of primer
Why film and not primer?
In the past, black borders were applied with primer. The interior had to be fitted first so the line could be marked out. Then the interior came out again, the primer went on, and everything was refitted. That takes a lot of work, and the edge was rarely truly straight.
That is why we work with film. We apply the film oversized and only trim it to size once the interior is in place. The line always lands exactly where it should, and the edge is much sharper than with primer. The interior also doesn’t have to come in and out twice.
Process
How we work
We prefer to apply the film before the window is mounted. The film goes on with water; by doing this in the workshop, no water comes on board. Applying it to a mounted window is also possible.
Applying the film
We degrease the glass for good adhesion. We then apply the film with water and a little neutral soap, so the film can still be adjusted once it is on the pane. We apply the film well past the final line.
Keeping the edges clear
We keep space clear along the edge, so the sealant that bonds the window adheres directly to the glass.
Mounting and interior
The window is placed and bonded. After that, the interior is fitted out.
Trimming to size
Once the interior is in place, we cut away the excess film. The edge then lines up exactly with the interior.
Benefits
The advantages of the film method
Black borders in film have clear advantages over primer.
A sharper edge
The film is applied oversized and trimmed exactly to size afterwards. The line lands precisely where it should.
Less refit work
The interior doesn’t need to go in and come out again, as it does with primer. That saves fitting time and the risk of damage.
No water on board
We apply the film with water, preferably in the workshop before the glass is mounted. That way no water comes on board.
Curved glass too
The film follows the shape of the glass, from flat windows to double-curved panels.
Experience
Years of experience with yacht glass
Black borders are everyday work for us. In more than fifteen years on board superyachts we have treated hundreds of windows, from small portholes to large curved saloon windows.
We know which film suits which glass, how to keep the edge crisp, and how to carry out the work without disrupting the interior or the schedule on board. That is why shipyards and captains in more than twenty countries ask us back.
More about FinestraYears of experience
Countries visited
FAQ
Questions about black borders
A matte black edge on the inside of the glass that hides interior trim, fixings and sealant joints from view. From outside, all you see is an even black surface around the window.
Need advice on the right treatment?
Tell us about the glass and the damage, feel free to include photos, and we’ll recommend the best approach.
Contact us