Slip-Tack 101: The Secret to Easy, Bubble-Free Window Film Installation

If you’ve been researching home window film installation, you’ve probably run across a new term “Slip-Tack” and wondered what it is. Whether its essential to have to get the job done and why you need a special product to apply film to begin with.

Let’s get right to demystifying this window film installation solution.

Slip-Tack, a specially formulated mounting solution that makes installing your window film easier, smoother, and more professional-looking.

What Is Slip-Tack?

Slip-Tack is a very pure soap that is used as a window film mounting solution. When diluted with water, it becomes a slightly soapy, slick solution that helps you:

• Clean the glass thoroughly before application
• “Float” the film into position on the window surface
• Prevent premature sticking so you have time to align the film
• Squeegee out air bubbles and excess liquid for a clean, finished look

Think of it as the DIY secret weapon that turns an average install into a pro-quality job.

Why Not Just Use Dish Soap?

Good question — many DIY blogs recommend using a few drops of dish soap in water as a budget-friendly alternative. In a pinch you can use Dawn regular brand dish soap (no PowerWash or other forumlations) – but dish soap is not our recommended substitute because it has a few key drawbacks:

• It foams more, making it harder to see and remove bubbles
• It can leave a sticky residue that could interfere with adhesion
• Ingredients vary brand to brand — and we can’t guarantee the optical clarity of all soap brands

Slip-Tack is an extremely pure and gentle soap that doesn’t product a lot of bubbles which makes it great for window film applications. It mixes clean, rinses easily, and won’t interfere with how your film cures to the glass – or the clarity of the film once applied to the glass.

✅ Pro Tip: Using too much soap (or the wrong kind) can make your film slide too much, preventing it from anchoring to the glass and increasing the risk of bubbles. Slip-Tack gives you just the right balance.

How to Mix and Use Slip-Tack

Slip-Tack comes concentrated, so you’ll mix it with water before use. Here’s the basic ratio:

• 1 teaspoon of Slip-Tack
• 32 oz of clean water (the size of the spray bottle that comes in our Window Film Installation Tool Kit)

Add the Slip-Tack to your spray bottle, top off with water, and shake gently. That’s it — you’re ready to go.

Using Slip-Tack During Installation:

The full instructions for installing our ComforTech Ceramic Series Window Film can be found here. But here is a short summary of how Slip-Tack is used and the key role it plays during the installation process:

1. Prep the Glass:
   The Slip-Tack solution is used to clean the glass prior to installation. Spray the glass generously with your Slip-Tack solution and use a razor scraper (like the 3” Triumph Scraper) to remove debris, stickers, adhesive or paint. Wipe clean with a lint-free cloth.
2. Apply Slip-Tack to the Film and Glass:
   Before placing the film on the glass, mist both the glass surface and the adhesive side of your film with Slip-Tack. This helps prevent it from sticking too soon.
3. Slide and Align:
   Because Slip-Tack prevents immediate bonding, you’ll be able to reposition your film to get perfect alignment — even on large or custom-cut pieces.
   
4. Squeegee Smoothly:
   Once in place, spray the film again with the Slip-Tack solution and use a professional squeegee to press out the Slip-Tack solution from between the film and glass. Work from the center outward to remove bubbles and moisture.
   

Slip-Tack FAQs:

What happens after application?

Slip-Tack allows the adhesive to activate gradually. As the water and solution dry out (typically over a few days depending on how hot it is outside), the film bonds securely to the glass. Just avoid touching or cleaning the film during this time, and let it cure undisturbed for best results.

Where do I get Slip-Tack?

You’ll find Slip-Tack in our Window Film Installation Tool Kit. It’s part of our effort to make your DIY installation just as clean and professional as what the pros do — because you deserve nothing less.

Is there anything I can substitute for Slip-Tack?

Yes! If you happen to run out of Slip-Tack or you don’t purchase the Tool Kit, you can substitute baby shampoo like this one. Use the baby shampoo in the same ratio as the Slip-Tack: 1 tsp of baby shampoo per 32 oz of water. 

Slip-Tack Summary

Installing window film is totally doable as a DIY project — and with the right tools including Slip-Tack, you’ll be installing like a pro in no time. If you’re new to film installation, check out our step-by-step guide and videos for added help.

And if you ever get stuck, you can always reach out to us — we’re here to help you make your home cooler, more private, and energy-efficient!