How to Apply Window Film
How do you attach window film to a window?
We’ve created this Step by Step guide suitable for almost any window film or window sticker. Our how-to help videos will quickly guide you through what liquid is used to apply window film and how to trim the edges.
“Take extra care when removing the backing liner which is clear on our Reeded Film.”
Top Tips:
Make sure the glass is very clean because dirt may cause air bubbles.
Can I use water to apply window film?
Yes and the water should be room temperature with a few drops of washing up liquid (liquid dish soap like fairy liquid)
If possible, use a spray misting bottle or very clean garden pump and spray tool. Don’t worry because the adhesive is water proof and all the water will be removed when you squeegee the window film, once in position.
Do you have to use soapy water to apply window film?
The water creates a temporary barrier between the adhesive and the glass and a small amount of liquid dish soap will help the film slip and slide for positioning.
It’s best to have 2 people, one to hold the film and the other to remove the backing sheet.
“Remember: When installing window film, patience and preparation will serve you well.”
Step 1: Preparing the glass for window film
Preparing the glass is a vital part of the process!
In a spray bottle, mix clean water with a few droplets of washing ups liquid. Spray the window glass and thoroughly clean it, paying close attention to the edges. If there are any specks of dirt or paint, use a small scraper to remove them.
TIP: A lint-free cloth will prevent the shedding of cloth fibres.
Step 2: Preparing the Film
The principles of handling window films are much the same no matter what kind you are using.
Measure your glass at the top and bottom to ensure accuracy. (Sometimes windows are not perfectly square or rectangular). Lay your film flat and if required, cut it to your required size. If you prefer, you can cut the film slightly larger and trim once fitted on the glass.
Once you are happy with the size of your piece of film, lay it on a clean surface and slowly remove the backing liner.
This is often when people create creases in the film. Get someone to help you if it makes it easier.
Spray the adhesive side of the film, which has now been revealed, with your water solution.
TIP: Don’t be afraid of using too much water!
Step 3: Remove the air bubbles
Using your Squeegee tool.
Once you are happy with the positioning of your film, liberally spray more water on the back surface as a lubricant for your squeegee. A felt-edged tool can also be used.
Starting at the top centre edge and using firm pressure, push the water out from behind the film towards a side edge. Repeat in the opposite direction to the opposite edge. Then from the centre of the top edge push the water down towards the bottom edge so you have made a ’T’. Your film should now be securely in place.
If you are applying a solar or safety film, apply as much pressure as possible to remove the water. You may need a specialist squeegee for this process.
Starting at the top and working down to the bottom, push all the water out from the middle towards one side edge. Repeat from the middle to the other side.
Run a credit card and a sharp craft knife down each edge and across the bottom to trim off any excess film. The thickness of the card will allow for a small gap for any excess liquid to be squeegee’d out. Once the film has been trimmed, wet the surface and run the squeegee over again using the same technique as before.
Final Checks:
After the vinyl window film has been applied, dry every edge and the surface with a paper towel. Be thorough and careful, especially in the corners. Make sure all the water, or as much as possible, has been removed from behind the film.
Check your installation from both sides of the glass. Often something will not reveal itself unless viewed from a different perspective, especially with reflective films.
If you notice small bubbles that start to appear after all the water seemed to have gone, this is perfectly natural and part of a ‘curing process’.
