Instructions for Installing Window Film

If you want to install window installation, you don’t always have to hire a professional to do it for you. You can easily install the film on your own.

You will need the following tools:

-Paper coffee filters or lint-free cloth
-Tape measure or ruler
-Razor blade (single edge)
-Utility knife
-Squeegee
-Spray bottle
-Bottled water (don’t use tap water)
-Baby shampoo (no tears) or film aid applicant

The film is usually applied to the inner surface of the glass. In case you have a storm window, you have to remove it first before applying the tint on the surface of the pane furthest from the interior, and then reinstall the storm window.

While this is a simple process, you have to be patient and prepare adequately. If you are installing window film for the first time, try it out with a small film before you do the work on your windows.

Preparation

Fill a solution of soapy water into a spray bottle, and add film-aid concentrate for pH balance and drying clarity. Avoid hard tap water because it leaves spots. This solution is supposed to lubricate the squeegee during the cleaning process.

For this job, you will need a number of utility single-edged razor blades. Trim the film after every 10 inches with a utility knife.

The squeegee will be used to press the tint on the window, avoiding creases in the process, and to remove the soapy water under it. The ideal squeegee blade should be between 6 and 8 inches wide.

To absorb the squeegeed water, use paper coffee filters or lint-free towels. Avoid the usual paper towels.

Get a wallpaper trimmer to trim the tint to size.

Important Points to Remember

-You can remove the film, but you can’t reuse it
-Make sure you are working in a dust-free area with the fans turned off
-Other than under direct sunlight, the film can be applied at any time
-If you have large windows, have someone to assist you
-Never use degreasing or concentrated detergents

Application

Measure the Window

Get the dimensions of the window first. Measure, unroll and cut the window film. You can apply the film from top to bottom or side to side.

Clean the Window

Spray the cleaning solution on the window generously. Clean the windows with the squeegee and remove any caked paint or dirt and wipe off properly.

Cut the Film

Unroll and apply the film on a flat area close to the window. With a ruler guide, cut the window repair an inch bigger than the size of the window. If the windows are bigger than the size of the film, you will have to seam the film as you would do with wallpapers.

Wet the Window

Spray the solution on the windows to lubricate the film until you see soap water beads rolling down the frame. Apply when the window is still wet, or rewet the window.

Remove the Liner

Patiently and carefully remove the liner from the film. Attach pieces of tape to the back and front side of the film. Press them together and then pull them away to remove the liner from the film. Spray more solution to the adhesive side of the film now exposed, to reduce contamination.

Apply the Film

Having removed the liner and the window is still wet, apply the adhesive side of your window cleaning to the glass. Begin from the top, and gently lay the film down the glass.

Spray the Outside of the Film

Spray all the film side that faces you to keep the surface lubricated, and then squeegee it firmly but carefully to remove air and water from underneath.

Trim the Edges

Use the utility knife or razor blade to trim around the perimeter of the film. Spray more solution to the film and squeegee it off.