Window film provides an extensive array of benefits to both commercial and residential properties. Whether investing in window film for its security and health benefits or aesthetic appeal, it is a worthwhile undertaking.
You may choose window film experts for installation, but for those who fancy DIY, here is our simple guide for achieving the perfect application and results.
Things to note before the application process
- Since window film is a thin and delicate sheet of material, handle with care
- Avoid folding and creasing the film to prevent permanently marking or damaging it
- The preparation and application of the film should happen in a dust and draught-free environment
- Pre-clean the windows to remove dirt and clear all particles
- Turn off fans when working.
- Apply the film when the window is hanging vertically. Don’t apply tint when the window is lying flat to prevent trapping of the bubbles.
- The best time to apply the film is late evening or early morning when your window glass is cooler or when the temperatures are 45-90 degrees.
- Assemble the essential tools needed for the application
These include;
- Window Film- You can buy online or your local home improvement stores.
- Measuring tape
- Spray bottle – Fill it with non-acidic aid application concentrate done by mixing 1tablespoon of baby shampoo (Johnson’s) and a pint of cold water.
- Knife with sharp and snap-off blade
- Trim guide/plastic card
- A dry and clean lint-free cloth/towel
- Squeegee
- Glass scraper
- Take the measurements
For the rest of the film installation to go smoothly, you need to measure the length and width of your window.
After this, cut the window film according to the measurement but add an inch more. This gives leeway for adjustment during the process.
- Prepare the window glass
To prevent your film from attracting water bubbles or dirt when it’s installed onto the window glass, prepare it. First, spray the glass with a cleaning solution covering the panel with mist.
After that, use the scraper to clean. Ensure the window, and the scraper remains wet to prevent tugging/putting scratches on the glass.
Pay more attention to the edges, and you use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad to remove extra dirt.
Avoid using lots of solutions on the frame to prevent foreign matter and minimize dust from sticking to your window glass. After thoroughly cleaning the window, respray the solution and use the squeegee to remove all water.
Last, use a lint-free clean/dry towel to clean the window edges and remove any dirty and stagnant water. Clean edges ensure the film does not get contaminated during installation.
- Prepare the Film
The backing liner protects the film from getting damaged. In most window films, the backing liner is a transparent and thin sheet of the film while the vinyl film has a paper backing.
To remove the back liner, spray the slip solution on the sticky sides as you peel.
Spraying the film adhesive reduces static electricity that may happen during liner removal, prevents the film from getting sticky, and lessens contamination.
Are you struggling to remove the film backing liner? You can separate the window film and liner corners by attaching masking tape on the back and front of the film when facing each other and pressing firmly together.
Wet your hands using the solution and slowly pull apart the masking tapes from each other.
- Install the Film
After doing the above preparation procedures, it’s time to apply the film. Start by applying the slip solution on both the window and film to keep it wet.
Then, place the films adhesive side onto the window glass starting from the right and left top bottom going down and ensure it adheres gently.
Keep the film and window thoroughly wet to ensure proper positioning. Ensure the film is straight. A wrinkled or creased film will not flatten out.
Position the window film by sliding it gently on the wet surface and smoothing it out to remove the large air bubbles, dry any water or solution using a squeegee starting from the centre to the outer edges.
To remove the unwanted materials, lift the film nearest corner and remove the particles. Before replacing it, spray slip solution and thoroughly wet the film and glass.
- Film Trimming
Run a plastic card or trim guide along the window film edges to firmly set it against the frame and glass.
Use the retractable knife between the sides and trim guide and trim out the film excess inches. Always use a sharp retractable knife or blade. After finishing the trimming process, squeegee the window film again.
- Drying time
Thoroughly dry the window using a squeegee for at least 3-4 times to remove excess water and prevent unsightly bubbles. Wipe the edges to remove excess water. For a complete cure, leave the film for 2-4 weeks.
During the curing period, you may notice misting or haziness, but as the film dries, this will disappear.
You may also see small bubbles similar to orange peel skin as the drying process takes place. Again, after the curing period of 2-4 weeks, it will disappear. The curing time varies according to water removal and type of film.
- Cleaning
Clean your window the normal way using a non-abrasive cloth and with clean water and soft materials. Cleaning should happen after the curing process, which is after the four weeks period.
Conclusion
You have finished and enjoyed your easy and one-time investment DIY window film installation project. It’s a one-person project, but for the larger windows, you need two people.
Relax and enjoy the benefits of window film like reduced glare, less energy bills and more privacy. Other notable benefits include protection against skin cancer and aesthetic visual appeal.
