
Here is how to apply window film to your windows in five steps:
- Clean your window with a mixture of water and baby shampoo to remove dirt, debris, and another residue. Allow the surface to dry completely.
- Using your measuring tape, find the exact measurements of your window, and mark the measurements with a pen.
- Cut out the measures on your window film using your utility knife.
- Remove the protective backing from the window film.
Full Answer
How to put window film on Windows?
Applying Your Window Film. 1 Step 1: Clean the Windows. Clean your windows thoroughly with an application solution or a mixture of 1 teaspoon of baby shampoo to 1 gallon of ... 2 Step 2: Cut the Window Film. 3 Step 3: Remove the Window Film Backing. 4 Step 4: Apply the Window Film. 5 Step 5: Eliminate Any Bubbles. More items
How do you get clear film off of a window?
Wet the Window Thoroughly Generously spray the solution, which acts as a lubricant for the film, onto the inside surface of the window until beads of the soapy water run down the glass. If the window becomes dry, rewet it completely before applying film. 5. Remove the Clear Film Backing (“the liner”)
What is security window film and how does it work?
Security window films are used to enhance the safety of regular glass by strengthening it. Security films for windows are used to help protect against break-ins, vandalism, accidents, terrorist bomb attacks, and natural disasters. Some types of security film can also reduce heat to a building or minimize the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.
Should you add security film to laminated glass windows?
If you have glass in your building that is already laminated, adding a thick security film will give your windows the greatest amount of protection outside of bullet-resistant glass. The film helps control spall, a term used to describe the flying glass that can become separated from laminated glass in an attack.

How do you put a security film on a window?
3:194:36Installing Security Film - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe best way I found to do it is to pre-cut your film ahead of time test fit it make sure it fits.MoreThe best way I found to do it is to pre-cut your film ahead of time test fit it make sure it fits. Spray down your window.
Is window security film installed on the inside or outside?
Generally, security window film is applied on the exterior, but it can also be applied on the interior. Where the film is applied depends on the context and purpose. If you are looking for added protection you can even install it on both the interior and exterior.
Does security film on windows work?
The truth is there is no such thing as bulletproof window film, despite many deceptive ads and videos that mislead consumers. It can, however, reduce the time it takes for an active shooter to gain entry into a building. This can help increase the time occupants have to flee to safety.
Can I put on window film myself?
Regardless of your reasons for tinting your car, you can do it yourself with the correct materials, prep-work, and techniques. Window tinting is done by taking a film (usually made from polyethylene terephthalate or “PET”) and adhering it to the glass with adhesive.
How thick should security window film be?
While all security films improve safety by preventing flying glass shards from causing injuries, thicker films can boost security against burglars. The thicker the film, the longer it takes to break out of the window frame—8- and 12-mil films are the best choice for impact protection.
Can I install 3M window film myself?
Can I install 3M Window Film myself? No, 3M Window Films require professional application; only authorized 3M Window Film Dealers are thoroughly trained and experienced in performing high quality work. In this way, our customers will enjoy the benefits of 3M Window Films and have the comfort of the 3M warranty.
Is 3M window film worth it?
Average Cost of Window Tint In conclusion, the 3M Crystalline Window Tint is the best of the best. It is beneficial because it provides better UV protection and blocks more infrared light than its competitors. It also provides a lifetime guarantee, which cannot be said for Solar Gard's window tinting.
Does security film reduce noise?
Does window film really reduce noise? Yes. Window films attached to the glass reduce the ability of the panes to vibrate.
Does security film work on tempered glass?
The film can be applied directly to existing glass windows and doors (tempered or regular), acting as an extra layer of protection. Specially designed to stretch instead of tear, 3M Safety and Security Window Film makes the glass more difficult to penetrate, holding it in place in the event of breakage.
Is 3M window film worth it?
Average Cost of Window Tint In conclusion, the 3M Crystalline Window Tint is the best of the best. It is beneficial because it provides better UV protection and blocks more infrared light than its competitors. It also provides a lifetime guarantee, which cannot be said for Solar Gard's window tinting.
Does security film reduce noise?
Does window film really reduce noise? Yes. Window films attached to the glass reduce the ability of the panes to vibrate.
What is shatterproof film?
Shatter resistant film, also known as fragment retention film (FRF), safety film, security film, protective film, airblastresistant, fragment retention film, or shatterproof film is being used to reduce the flying glass shards shown to be a major contributor to injuries in explosive events.
How to remove cling film from window?
If you are unhappy with the placement of the cling film, gently peel it off the window and reposition it . Use both hands to evenly and slowly peel the film so that it does not tear or stretch. Watch out for any dust or debris that can land on the statically charged surface while you work.
How to get air bubbles out of window film?
As you work out from the center, make sure to use your squeegee to press the cling film firmly against the surface of the window and remove trapped air bubbles . Trapped air bubbles will not only reduce the bond between your film and the window but also make the final product look rushed and unprofessional! No one wants to see air bubbles trapped under their cling film because it ruins the illusion of the décor Once it is applied, the window film will not only add to your safety at home but will also make it look beautiful.
How to remove bubbles from window film?
Using your squeegee, slowly work the film onto the window surface, starting from the center to the outer edges. The squeegee will help you remove any tiny bubbles that may be trapped under the cling film.
How to clean a window after it has dried?
After you’ve dried the window surface, place some glass cleaner on a clean rag and give it a final wipe down to ensure that you’ve removed all errant particles. Finally, run a squeegee down the surface of the window to remove any fine dust and soap residue.
How to lay film flat?
Unroll the film on a wide surface and lay it flat.
What tools do you use to measure film?
If you want to make your application more accurate, you can use tools such as a pencil and a straight edge to measure your film.
Is non-adhesive window film good?
Knowing how to apply non-adhesive window film in your home is not only a cheap and effective way to increase your privacy, it’s also a great way to increase the visual aesthetic . Non-adhesive window film gives your home an air of mystery and elegance, and if you choose decorative decals, it’s a quick way to give your home a pop of color.
What is 3M security film?
3M Safety & security window films fortify doors and windows to provide resistance against intrusions and forced entries. Protect your most vulnerable entry points with anti-smash and grab window films.
What is window film depot?
Window Film Depot installs security window films and advanced ballistics products that provide added resistance for vulnerable glass in the event of an active shooter or forced entry.
How to cut film for window?
Unroll the film on a clean, flat surface near the window. Use a ruler as a guide and cut the film 1” larger than the dimensions of the window to be sure that the film will fit. Of course, you may wish to use the factory edge of the film for one side of the window. Or, if you choose, pretrim the film to the final dimensions of each window (including the 1/16” gap described in step 8). We recommend pretrimming the film to final size for French panes, skylights, and arched windows.
What is the best tool to clean window film?
b. Plan to use several single-edge utility razor blades to clean the window. A small utility knife with breakaway blades is the best tool for trimming film. NOTE: Film can dull a blade edge quickly; and a dull blade can tear film. Plan to use a new blade after every 10’ of film that you cut.
How to clean a glass window?
(You will use this solution throughout the installation process.) Then use your hand and squeegee to clean the windows thoroughly. Respray the glass, then use a razor blade to remove any caked dirt or paint. Use special care cleaning the corners. Re-wet the window, then squeegee downward. Wipe off accumulated dirt from the window gasket with a soft cloth or paper coffee filters. Repeat process until the glass is clean. If possible, also clean the outside to ensure total clarity. ( NOTE: Paper coffee filters are lint free and can be used to clean the windows now, and the film later. Remember, the cleaner the glass, the better the final appearance of the applied film.)
How wide should a squeegee be for window film?
We recommend a squeegee between 6” to 8” wide, preferably with a flexible blade and solid handle. A quality squeegee is a good investment because you will use it to clean the glass, apply the film, and clean the film in the future.
How to remove a window liner from a window?
As you carefully peel the liner away, generously spray the soapy solution onto the exposed adhesive. This spray helps break any static cling, reduces contamination, and makes the liner separation easier. Wet your hands with the Solution before handling the film to avoid leaving fingerprints on the adhesive. For small windows, remove the liner diagonally, from one corner toward the opposing corner. Try to keep the film from touching itself. Two people should coordinate the liner separation on a large sheet of film.
How to remove clear liner from a film roll?
(NOTE: Usually the liner is on the outside surface of the film roll.) Remove the liner by attaching two 3-4” long pieces of transparent tape to the front and back surfaces of a corner of the film so that about 1” of tape is on the film, the rest centered and hanging over the pointed corner of the film. Press the two pieces of tape firmly together, then quickly pull them apart to begin separating the clear liner away from the adhesive side of the film. ( NOTE: This process may require a quick, snapping pull, much like pressing together and quickly pulling apart two pieces of velcro.)
How to clean smoke film on glass?
a. Fill a pump- or trigger-spray bottle with a soapy water solution: to 1qt. bottled water, add a bottle of a film aid concentrate (or 1/4 tsp of a no-tears baby shampoo without conditioner). Film Aid offers the best drying clarity and pH balance. Do not use hard tap water, which can leave spots under the film. VERY IMPORTANT: This soapy water solution (“the Solution”) will serve as a lubricant for the squeegee during glass cleaning, film application, and future cleaning. CAUTION: Do not use any household glass cleaner containing ammonia or vinegar to clean the glass or film; such cleaners can dilute or dissolve the film’s adhesive. However, extremely greasy or smoke-covered windows may need to be cleaned first with glass cleaner then rinsed thoroughly with the Solution.
What is security window film?
Security window film also comes with privacy options for buildings with windows that open to public-facing streets that require strengthening to protect people and property from bad actors. Often burglars will scope out homes and businesses by looking through windows for enticing valuables.
Why do we need security film for windows?
Security films for windows are used to help protect against break-ins, vandalism, accidents, terrorist bomb attacks, and natural disasters. Some types of security film can also reduce heat to a building or minimize the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. So are security films worth it?
What is laminated security glass?
Laminated security glass consists of two pieces of glass with a PVB layer in-between, and the makeup is glued together under pressure in a tank called an autoclave.
What is thinner film?
Thinners films are more often used for tinting or solar protection. However, some manufacturers make thinner films with nanotechnology that are even stronger than thicker films, but the cost is higher. For example, there are 8 mil thick nano-layered films that test as well as 15 mil standard security films.
What do burglars look for in a window?
Burglars may also look for indicators that a building is empty, or someone is home alone. With privacy security films for windows, it becomes near impossible for intruders to see targets or know which rooms are occupied. Window films can also be used to change the look of your building or be decorative in nature.
Why are security films used in windows?
Security films for windows are used to help protect against break-ins, vandalism, accidents, ...
How long does it take for security film to break glass?
Security film for your windows not only stops glass from shattering, but it also makes glass more difficult to breach, delaying entry by up to three minutes. This means intruders will have to use a more considerable amount of force to gain entry, giving those inside time to run, hide, or call the authorities.
