Applying Window Film

Window film has become a popular choice with many homeowners. In this article, we take a look at applying window film without running into problems.

It goes without saying that we are going to look at how to apply window film in general. Always read the instructions for the specific product you’ve purchased. If you do, it will probably read just like below. If you don’t, there will undoubtedly be some critical step that is left out! Hey, we’re talking Murphy’s Law!


The first step is to clean the window thoroughly. Window film goes on the interior of the window, not the exterior. Make sure the window is spotless and dry. Next, spray on a mist of water. Some products come with a solution. If so, obviously you should use that solution.

At this point, you need to apply the film to the window. Make sure the film overlaps the edges of the window. Do not try to size it before applying. You can cut a size that is slightly bigger than the window to make it easy to handle, but that should be all. Now spread the window film out. Next, wipe it with a squeegee in various directions till you move all of the air bubbles out to the side and off the edge. It usually helps to go horizontally across the top first, followed by downward strokes to the bottom of the window.



You are now ready to edge the window once the bubbles are out. Edging simply means cutting off the excess material around the borders. The best approach is to use a hard flat surface like the edge of large putty knife to create a straight line against the edge of the window. Now use a sharp straight edge to cut the material. This should create a fairly straight line just inside the edge of the window and give you a professional look.

Applying window film is not a particularly difficult task. The key is to have everything organized before you start and then to take your time.

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