Window Film Blog
PHoto of a window - one side without window film and one side with window film for a post on DIY window film installation

5 Essential Tips for DIY Window Film Installation

Hello there, DIY enthusiasts and home improvement aficionados! Welcome to another blog post brought to you by Concord Window Film, your one-stop-shop for all types of window films, from solar control ceramic films to matte white privacy films. Today, we’re diving into a topic that we know many of you are curious about: window film installation and specifically doing it yourself at home. If you’re looking to take on this project yourself, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are five essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful DIY window film installation.

5 Tips for DIY Window Film Installation

1. Choose the Right Film for Your Needs

Before you start, it’s crucial to choose a window film that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for UV protection, privacy, or heat control, the type of film you choose can make a significant difference.

Solar Control Film

Excellent for reducing glare and heat Our ComforTech Ceramic Series is our flagship, professional grade window film perfect for DIY installation. We have five shades from lightest ComforTech™ 45 to our darkest: ComforTech™ 05. The darker the film, the higher the solar control – so it comes down to your personal preference for how dark you are willing to go.

Our three darkest ComforTech™ shades are also classified as one-way mirror films that provide daytime privacy. So if you are looking to maintain your daytime views to the outside world, but want to prevent nosy neighbors from looking in, these three shades: 25, 15, and 05 are good bets.

Matte White Privacy Film

Our Matte White Privacy Films are perfect when you need day and night time privacy for spaces like bathrooms, bedrooms and home offices. They mimic the look of more expensive white lami or frosted glass for your windows or doors.

Silver Reflective Film

Great for one-way visibility and enhanced privacy with a shiny metallic finish. Silver reflective also offers strong solar control for those looking for an economical film.

Safety Film

Ideal for enhancing the strength of your windows where required by local building code (near stairwells and tubs and showers) or to protect little ones in your home from accidental glass breakage.

2. Gather Your Supplies

For a successful DIY project, having the right tools for the job is key. Here’s a list of supplies you’ll need:

  • Window film
  • Measuring tape
  • Utility knife*
  • Razor blade scraper*
  • Straight edge or ruler
  • Marking pencil*
  • Squeegee*
  • Mounting solution* and water in a spray bottle*
  • Paper towels
  • Drop clothes

Our Window Film Installation Tool Kit has all of the tools you need for a successful installation – all of the items above marked with an * are included in the tool kit. And print out our supply checklist to make sure you have everything you need!

3. Measure Twice, Cut Once

Before you make any cuts, measure your window dimensions accurately. Measure the glass only from the inside frame to inside frame.

Double-check your measurements to ensure you cut the film precisely. If you cut a piece that’s too small, you’ll end up wasting both time and material.

4. Clean the Windows Thoroughly

Good preparation is paramount to any DIY project. Probably the most important step for window film installation is to clean your windows thoroughly. Any dirt, grime, or dust on the window surface will get trapped under the film and look terrible post-installation.

Use a mixture of soap and water to clean your windows thoroughly. We recommend you wet your windows and clean off any adhesives or stuck on material with a razor blade scraper as the first step. Be sure to carefully clean the scraper blade between passes. Use a lint-free cloth to dry.

Read more details about how to prep your window for film.

5. Take Your Time During Application

Slow and steady wins the race!

Start by removing the backing of the window film, and spray the adhesive side generously with soapy water. Carefully place the film on the window, starting from the top and use a squeegee to push out any bubbles as you work your way down.

Use a utility knife to trim any excess film. This is probably the most detail-oriented step of the entire process, so take your time and go slow!

And through all steps, take your time!

Conclusion

And there you have it—five essential tips for installing window film at home. You can see all of our installation videos here and get a PDF of our installation instructions here.

If you have any questions or need additional advice, feel free to reach out to us. We’re always here to help you with your DIY window film project.

Happy DIY-ing!

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