Do It Yourself: Low-E Window Coatings

If you want an easy way to cut down on your energy bill and keep the temperature in your home stabilized, you can install a window covering that will block out solar rays in the summer and insulate household heat in the winter months. While it may seem tempting to call a professional to install your Low E window film coverings, the truth is that with the right tools and proper technique you can accomplish the task yourself for much less money.

Things You'll Need

• Baby shampoo
• Distilled water
• Plastic spray bottle
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife
• Window squeegee
• Straight edge
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Pour 1/4 teaspoon baby shampoo into a plastic spray bottle. Fill the bottle with distilled water.

2. Measure the window you wish to cover with a measuring tape and add an inch to each side to ensure that the entire window can be covered easily. Remove a sheet of Low E window film covering from its package and cut the film to match the measurements using a utility knife.

3. Spray the chosen window thoroughly with the baby shampoo mixture. Wipe away all the moisture, along with any dirt or grime built up on the window, using a window squeegee. Repeat until the window is spotless.

4. Mist the window once again with the baby shampoo mixture.

5. Remove the backing on the cut Low E window film covering. Spray the exposed adhesive side with the baby shampoo solution. Also, spray your fingertips with the solution to ensure easy handling and no fingerprints in the final product.

6. Set the top end of the film against the top of the wet window. Press down with your fingers to adhere the film to the window.

7. Allow the rest of the film to lay down over the window, making sure it is pulled free of any creases. Smooth the film over the window with your hands.

8. Spray the covered window with the baby shampoo solution and go over it with the window squeegee to further secure the film to the window.

9. Cut any excess film away from the bottom and sides of the window using the utility knife.

10. Use the squeegee one last time to remove any traces of moisture from the top of the Low E window film covering.

References

• Dulley: Instructions for Installing Window Film Yourself
• Lower My Energy Bill: Low E Heat Control