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Can window film be used on polycarbonate surfaces? In our FAQ’s it states that ComforTech™ Window Film should not be used on plastic surfaces. Customers often ask us to elaborate on why it shouldn’t be used on polycarbonate. So, I thought I would share the reasons why with everyone.
Some of you may be wondering what polycarbonate even is – so let’s get that out of the way.
Polycarbonate is a type of thermoplastic polymer that is lightweight, durable and has high impact resistance. It is commonly used as an alternative to glass in various applications, including windows – especially where safety glazing is required (think bullet-resistant surfaces), skylights, and greenhouses.
Polycarbonate also goes by the Lexan brand name. Another products similar to polycarbonate that shouldn’t be filmed is Plexiglass which is an acrylic plastic. Laminated windows have plastic sandwiched between glass or a polycarbonate layer attached to a glass layer and should also not be filmed with traditional window film.
It isn’t just ComforTech™ Ceramic Series film, but any standard window film is not suitable for application on polycarbonate surfaces. This is because plastic glazing like Lexan or Plexiglass will absorb moisture on high humidity days and will off-gas the water vapor on dry days leading to blistering of standard window films. In addition there are other problems that can occur:
Polycarbonate tends to off-gas and this can cause problems. Polycarbonate off-gassing refers to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gases from the material as it ages or is exposed to heat or UV radiation. This off-gassing can be problematic for window film applied to polycarbonate surfaces for several reasons:
The gases released during off-gassing can interfere with the adhesive used in window films, causing them to separate, peel, or bubble. This results in a poor bond between the window film and the polycarbonate surface, which can lead to reduced performance and an unsightly appearance.
Some of the gases released during off-gassing can react chemically with the window film, causing it to break down, become discolored, or lose its effectiveness over time. This can negatively impact the film’s performance and longevity.
Off-gassing can cause the window film to become cloudy or hazy, reducing its optical clarity and negatively affecting the appearance of the polycarbonate surface.
When window film is applied to a polycarbonate surface, it can trap the off-gassing gases between the film and the material. This can cause the film to bubble or lift, leading to distortion and a compromised appearance.
Polycarbonate has different thermal properties than glass. Our films always cause some level of heat absorption when applied to glass. When window film is applied to a polycarbonate surface, it can alter the way the material absorbs and dissipates heat. Certain films, especially darker ones, can absorb more heat, causing the polycarbonate to expand unevenly. This uneven expansion can lead to distortion, warping, or even bowing of the material over time.
Once the film is compromised, there is no way to remove it without scratching the polycarbonate and ruining it.
While ComforTech™ Ceramic Series window film is not made for use on plastic or polycarbonate surfaces, there are some specialty window films out there that are. These are specially made for plastic surfaces and are often referred to as blister-free films. A quick Google search will yield a short list of candidates – here is one blister-free window film we are familiar with.
These films are typically clear and can be used as a base to add in a solar control or UV blocking film over them. So, if you have a polycarbonate surface that you would like to film with a solar control film, using the blister-free film first is one way to get the heat or UV rejection you are looking for.
If you are in the market for solar control or privacy window film for glass windows, shop ComforTech™ Ceramic Series.
