We’ll be honest; we don’t recommend using self-adhesive window film. Why? Because for almost three decades, we have gone into homes and businesses to perform a professional window film installation job after our client’s self adhesive window film was uneven, bubbled, wrinkled, yellowed, or didn’t perform as expected. If you are serious about having a high-quality window film installation to increase privacy, provide safety and security, enhance your building’s energy efficiency, or to add decorative appeal, we recommend investing in professionally installed window film so you don’t have to pay all over again to have the work re-done.
That being said, there are tips for installing self adhesive window film. This type of film is available in multiple styles, such as privacy film, security film, or decorative window film. It traditionally comes in rolls with a sticky film on one side and protective paper coating on the other. You peel the protective coating off the back and then stick the window film right onto the window.
Advantages of self adhesive window film include:
- It’s affordable
- You can choose a variety of different types of film
- It is easy to apply on your own
Disadvantages include:
- It’s nearly impossible to apply it evenly
- It is prone to bubbles, wrinkles, and peeling
- While it can be cut to size, the traditional dimensions of this pre-fabricated film may require multiple pieces to fit larger windows, resulting in unsightly seams that are prone to peeling and lifting.
- Buyers need to be discerning to ensure they don’t buy low-quality film that yellows, peels, or chips/scratches easily
Tips for installing self adhesive window film
- Buy high-quality film. If you are using self-adhesive window film to save money, then spend extra to purchase high-quality, commercial-grade window film. With proper application techniques, a high-quality film will be more apt to perform as per the manufacturer’s advertisement.
- Clean the window. Make sure the interior surface of your windows have been thoroughly cleaned and dried with a lint-free cloth. Any dirt, oils, smudges, or debris remaining on the surface of the window will be visible after you apply the film. Plus, the film is unable to adhere properly in these areas, making it more apt to bubble, lift, or peel away from the window surface.
- Only use on flat window surfaces. Do not apply self adhesive window film to beveled, dimpled, or any window surfaces that are not completely flat. The film will not be able to adhere properly to uneven or concave surfaces, which result in an unattractive finished product that will begin to work its way off the glass over time.
- Be patient. The key to a well-installed window film is having the time and patience to do the job correctly. The film needs to be cut to the exact size and should be applied very slowly and methodically to ensure that it doesn’t wrinkle or bubble along the way.
- Observe the manufacturer’s care instructions. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to cleaning, care and maintenance of your window film. Using the wrong products can result in an unattractive scratched or cloudy surface.
If you notice condensation or a layer of moisture accumulating between the film and your window, remove the film immediately. Built-up moisture can cause damage to your windows and surrounding structural materials, and can lead to mold and mildew growth.
If you are interested in affordable and professional window installation – complete with great customer service and a warranty – contact Daystar Window Tinting Inc..
