How to Evaluate Your Windows for Film

Are you considering enhancing your home’s windows with ComforTech™ Ceramic Series film? This innovative, high-tech product can significantly alter the characteristics of your glass, providing benefits like improved privacy, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

However, it’s crucial to know how to evaluate your windows for film to see if they are suitable for this upgrade. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the key considerations to ensure your window film installation is successful and your investment is well-placed.

Evaluate Your Windows for Film

ComforTech™ film is designed to be a DIY-friendly solution for homeowners looking to upgrade their residential windows. Yet, not all window types or conditions are ideal for film application due to the risk of thermal stress that can cause the seals to blow on insulated glass units (double pane windows) or can cause the glass itself to break.

Read more about thermal stress and double pane windows here.

Here’s a checklist to help you evaluate your windows for film to see if they are ready for a ComforTech™ makeover:

Size Matters

Avoid using the film on any pane larger than 40 square feet or with any glass edge longer than 10 feet.

Multi-Pane Windows

Triple or quadruple pane windows aren’t suitable candidates due to their specialized construction.

Pre-existing Damage or Issues

If your window has a seal failure or is chipped, cracked, scratched, or damaged in any way before installation, it’s best to skip the film.

High Elevation Homes

Houses situated above 3,000 feet in elevation might face unique challenges with window film due to sudden temperature swings or pressure changes.

Construction Material

Homes with concrete framing systems are not compatible with window film application.

Non-Glass Surfaces

Plastic, polycarbonate, and other non-glass materials aren’t suitable for film application. Read more about why window film shouldn’t be applied to plastic surfaces.

Special Glass Types

Laminated, round, textured, bent, patterned, or wired glass types require a different treatment and aren’t suited for this particular film.

Decorated Glass

Avoid applying film to glass with paint, lettering, or vinyl graphics.

Previously Treated Windows

Windows with existing film or treatments should not be overlaid with ComforTech™ film. It’s best to remove the old film and thoroughly clean the window before installing new film. Learn how to remove window film here.

Condition of Framing Materials

Ensure that the framing sealant, glazing compound, and gasket material are in good, resilient condition before proceeding.

Shading Considerations

Glass experiencing up to 25% outside shading, or where more than 25% of the glass perimeter is shaded, may not be ideal for film application. See the specific shading examples below:

Evaluate Your Windows for Film Conclusion

Installing ComforTech™ window film can be a fantastic way to enhance your home, but the right preparation is key to ensuring a successful application. If you follow the above guidelines, and evaluate your windows for film, you can make an informed decision about whether your windows are suitable for this upgrade.

Remember, if you’re unsure or your windows fall into any of these categories, you can reach out to us and a member of our technical staff can assist you. At Concord Window Film, we’re here to help guide you through making the best choices for your home.

Visit us at www.windowfilm.com for more information or reach out to us at [email protected] or through the chat bubble to get personalized advice for your window film project!