How to Apply Window Film

Applying window film can increase your privacy, block UV rays, even act as extra decoration. Current window films come with a variety of different options and are easy to install. Buy window film that suits your needs and then use this easy tutorial to install it right the first time.

Window films typically come in standard sizes that range from 24" to 48". You should buy a width that will fit all of your windows and plan on trimming the sheets to fit. However, if you have several especially long windows, you can use two sheets to cover the window.

No matter what type of window film you use in your house, the installation steps are the same. Before beginning you should know that typically this product does not work on plastic, frosted glass or other patterned glass, or cracked or scratched glass. However, if your glass is in good condition follow these steps.

Clean the glass thoroughly with soapy water. Some manufacturers have restrictions on the ingredients that can be contained in the soap; some soaps could dissolve the adhesive on the product. Some manufacturers sell cleaning fluid that will work particularly well with their materials.

Once the window is cleaned, unroll the film and cut it 1" larger than the piece of glass you wish to cover. Remove the liner on the film and spray both the window glass and the adhesive with soapy water. Apply the film to the window, sliding it into place as best as you can.

Spray the film attached to the window with the soapy water and using a squeegee and working left to right remove all air bubbles from underneath the glass. Leave a small perimeter around the glass untouched, you will smooth that area later.

After the majority of the window film has been smoothed into place, use a straight edge and razor to trim the sheet to lie flush with the glass. Then reapply water to the edges of the film and squeegee any bubbles out from between the glass and the film. It is important to use more water to insure that the film cures properly to the window.