How to Install Decorative Window Film

When purchasing decorative window film the first concern after which pattern or color works for your window, is "How am I going to install this, and make it look good?" Believe it or not, it's much easier then you think! With some basic tools, a careful hand and some dish soap you'll have your decorative window film installed in no time!

Tools Needed to Install Decorative Window Film

Also available are complete installation kits. These kits include everything you need include a spray bottle, utility knife, scraper, pre-measured mounting solution as well as an additional squeegee. The most beneficial reason to purchase a complete installation kit is the cleaning and mounting solution that it comes with. The solution only requires you to add water, and allows you to clean the window prior to installation, install the film easier and acts as a professional quality adhesive promoter allowing your decorative window film to last for years!

Preparing your Window Film for Installation

Using your mixture, clean the glass surface you are installing the film to. Do not use typical household window cleaners that contain ammonia, as this chemical will break down and ruin the adhesive overtime.After spraying down and cleaning the glass with a lint free cloth, use a razor blade to lightly scrape the glass surface. Test a small area first to ensure the glass will not scratch. After scraping down the window to remove stuck on debris, spray the window again and wipe solution away with a lint free cloth. You can use a paper towel to remove excess solution at the edges of the glass. The surface you are installing the window film should be very clean, free of dirt, dust particles and silicone.

Carefully measure the height and width of the window. You want to oversize the film up to 1 inch of extra material on each side to allow for proper sizing during installation. Cut the film to this size making sure to give you extra room for cutting during installation.

Installing your Decorative Window Film - Part 1

Lay this cut pieces of window film onto the clean flat glass surface with the release liner facing you. If there is an extra set of hands around, have them hold the film up to the window for you while you are cutting. You can also spray the film and the glass with your solution as this will help stick the film temporarily onto the glass.

It is now time to remove the release liner. When removing the release liner you want to simultaneously being spraying the exposed adhesive - this ensures that the film does not stick to itself and is completely covered with the installation solution. Be careful however when removing the release liner from that the film does not roll onto itself. Also apply generous amount of wetting solution to the glass. The solutions prevents the film from sticking to the glass immediately, allowing you more time to properly position the film for cutting and installation.

Tips for Removing the Window Film Release Liner

1) Use two pieces of scotch tape and stick them to opposite sides at one corner of the film...then pull these two pieces of tap apart and the liner should separate from the film.
2) If this does not work, put a corner of the film between your teeth and grind your teeth together. The combination of grinding and moisture can expose the liner. 
3) Use a thin or sharp object, such as your finger nail, to slide between the two layers and pick the two apart. At your own risk, you can carefully slide the utility knife blade between the two layers. 

Installing your Decorative Window Film - Part 2

The Final Cuts to your Window Film

Maintaining your Decorative Window Film