Do it yourself window film

Install heat control window film yourself

Do it yourself window film kits can save homeowners even more. These heat control window film kits come with all the tools required for do it  yourself installation. Installing energy saving window film will require time and patience.

The amount of time required will depend largely on the size and shape of the window unit, or glass door or skylight, and the type of insulating window film itself. Static cling and removable window film can be easier to install than most adhesive or bonding energy saving window film.

Installation on large and hard to reach glass surfaces can be handled by a professional. The International Window Film Association can assist homeowners locate a certified local heat control window film installer.

Preparation

• Schedule the installation at an appropriate time of day; if possible avoid the direct sunlight during the afternoon and temperatures below 45 degrees.
  
  
• Make sure the glass surface to be treated does not have any noticeable cracks before installing the do it yourself window film.
  
  
• Take measurements of each piece of glass, both the length and width. Then add up the total glass surface to be treated. Energy saving window film is sold in rolls, the size of the roll needed can not accurately be determined without taking these measurements.
  
  

Applying the insulating window film yourself

• Thoroughly clean the entire glass surfaces to be treated. Do not use any cleaning products containing ammonia. More times than not, water mixed with a light non alcoholic cleaning agent will suffice.
  
  
• Unroll the do it yourself window film on a flat and clean surface. Then cut the film about 1 inch longer and 1 inch wider than the glass surface to be treated.
  
  
• Then reapply a liberal amount of the same cleaning agent on the glass surface again.
  
  
• Carefully apply the heat control window film to the wet glass surface. Position the window film in place, leaving the 1 inch of extra film against the window frame.
  

Finishing the job

• Spray the same cleaning solution on the positioned insulating window film itself. Use a squeegee to press and remove the air bubbles between the film and the glass surface. Leave the 1 inch or 1 1/2 inch of the ends untouched.
  
  
• Use a knife and straight edge tool and cut remove the extra film along the frame, creating about a 1 1/16 inch gap between the heat control window film and the window glass.
  
  
• Re spray the entire glass surface and continue to squeeze out any remaining air bubbles.
  

Hazy or unclear view?

Have no fear! The view may be hazy and unclear until if you are applying an adhesive bonding energy saving window film. When the window film completely bonds to the glass surface, the hazy view will clear up. 

Depending on the particular insulating window film, this process can take from several hours to several days.