How To Install Window Film

How to Install Window Film Like a Pro

Installing window film in your home or business is an excellent way to achieve professional results while saving money. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a flawless application.

Preparation Steps

1. Choose the Right Film Size
   Window films typically come in 36-inch or 48-inch widths. Choose the most efficient size based on your window dimensions.

2. Trim the Film

   • Wet the window with water to hold the film in place temporarily.

   • Lay the film on the wet glass and trim it about 1 inch larger than the window size.

   • Store the trimmed film by sticking it to a nearby wet window to keep it clean.

Cleaning the Window: The Most Important Step

3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution

   • Fill a 1-quart spray bottle with water and add one teaspoon of Johnson’s Baby Shampoo. Avoid other soaps, as they may interfere with adhesion.

4. Clean the Glass

   • Scrape the window with a window scraper to remove invisible dirt and paint specks.

   • Scrub the window with the soap solution using a sponge or Teflon pad.

   • Squeegee the glass clean, wiping the blade with a non-linting towel after each pass.

   • Wipe around the window frame with a clean microfiber cloth to remove built-up dirt.

Applying the Film

5. Remove the Release Liner

   • Identify the release liner by rubbing the film—one side will feel slippery.

   • Apply tape to opposite corners of the film and pull apart to remove the liner.

   • Spray the film with the soap solution while removing the liner to prevent dust attraction.

6. Apply the Film to the Window

   • Spray the film and the center of the window with the soap solution.

   • Carefully place the film onto the glass.

   • Use a "smoothie" squeegee to remove excess water, starting from the center and working outward. Push, rather than pull, the squeegee for better adhesion.

   • Stop squeegeeing about 1 inch from the window edges to avoid drawing hidden dirt onto the film.

Trimming and Finalizing the Installation

7. Trim the Film Precisely

   • Use a snap-off razor blade and a five-way tool to press the film firmly against the window frame.

   • Trim the film while pressing it down to ensure a seamless fit.

   • Leave a 1/16-inch gap between the film and frame to prevent lifting or bubbling.

8. Final Squeegeeing

   • Push out any remaining water bubbles using a hard plastic tool wrapped in a non-linting towel.

   • Always work with a wet surface to prevent creasing.

   • Pay special attention to the top edge to prevent water from flowing back under the film.

Curing and Maintenance

• Allow up to 30 days for the film to fully cure and bond to the glass.

• Avoid cleaning the film during this curing period.

• Some cloudiness may appear but will clear up as the film dries.

By following these steps, you can achieve a smooth, professional-looking window film installation with ease. Get high-quality professional-grade film only at TAP Plastics and try it yourself today!