Over several years, window tinting has been used in cars for high-security escorts and profiles. It is also commonly used in museum and art galleries, where it is crucial to reduce glare and prevent UV rays from damaging artwork. Nowadays, however, window film is fast becoming popular in many households for a number of reasons. These include decreased energy bills, protection for furniture, improved privacy and security, and prevention of break-ins.
But installing window film requires the skills of professional window film installers. This is to ensure it is done properly. When effectively installed, window film can look appealing and provide homeowners with the maximum benefits it can offer. Read on for the common mistakes that non-professionals do when installing window film.
Failing to Clean Windows Beforehand
Many non-expert individuals fail to properly clean the windows prior to film installation. This can quickly become a cause of a headache to many homeowners for several reasons. For one, the dirty windows will have to be left as they are unless the film will be removed. This in itself causes a domino of other problems: A dirty glass will, of course, result in unsightly windows. Having to remove the film will be a costly process.
Additionally, any debris, dust, or dirt on the windows can worsen any bubble formation on the film. It can result in film failing to adhere to the glass properly. These bubbles and blemishes can compromise window visibility, practically rendering many windows unusable. If the film fails to adhere to the glass properly, its effectiveness will be greatly reduced.
When preparing your windows for film installation, ensuring that they are cleaned is not enough. Installers should also ensure that the right cleaning solutions are used. Cleaning solutions with high pH could cause streaks to be visible through the window film once it is set. Professional installers have their own products that will avoid these smudges. They can use warm water and mild soap or baby shampoo to do the cleaning.
Failing to Remove Excess Water and Air Bubbles
Typically, window film is installed on a wet window. Once the film is in position, any excess water and air bubbles that may be under the film are pushed out. If the windows are properly cleaned, these wrinkles will seamlessly melt into the glass once the film has cured. Upon closer look, however, most residential window film will have these bubbles. Any seasoned film installer will be able to tell right away that the windows have not properly been prepared.
Failing to Take Precise Measurements
Measuring is another crucial step in film installation to avoid an unsightly window. The last thing homeowners would want is having to patch window film pieces together to cover the entirety of the glass and avoid gaps around the frame. A safe and easy method is to add an extra inch or two to the measurements and then simply trim the edges to an exact match.
In many sunny regions across the country, many homeowners or home-buyers are falling in love with the many benefits of window film. But not everyone is capable of installing window film properly. It should be done professionally by skilled film installers to enjoy the aesthetic and functional benefits of window film.
