How to Apply Sun Screen Film to Residential Windows

Applying sunscreen film reduces heat gain through windows.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends saving energy with high-performance dual-pane windows--or applying sun-control films. Sunscreen film, also called solar film or window film, reduces heat gain through windows. By reducing solar radiation, you save money on cooling costs. Sunscreen films reduce sun damage to hardwood floors and furnishings. While many companies that sell sunscreen films offer installation at an additional charge, the process of applying window film involves only basic skills and the right equipment.

Things You'll Need

• Filtered water
• Mild dish soap or baby shampoo
• 32 ounce spray bottle
• Squeegee or squeegee card
• Ruler
• Utility knife

Instructions

Prepare the Film

1. Squeeze mild soap into a spray bottle--less than a tsp. of soap.

2. Fill the spray bottle with filtered water and shake the bottle to mix in the soap.

3. Wet your hands with the soapy water--this helps prevent fingerprints on the sticky side of the window film.

4. Separate the backing from the solar film by peeling the backing from one corner. Pull the backing off 5 to 7 inches at a time. This helps reduce the risk of the product sticking to itself. It's difficult to get unstuck, so maintain control of the film as you work with it.

5. Spray the exposed area of the film to wet it all the way across. Remove the next section of backing.

6. Repeat Step 5, working your way down, section by section for the entire piece of film.

Apply the Film

1. Spray the inside surface of a clean window with the soapy water. Spray every inch of the glass so that there are no dry spots. The soap-water keeps the film from sticking to the glass until you get the placement straight.

2. Lift the window film by its side edges and raise it into place at the top of the window. Get help if you're applying it to a tall or wide window.

3. Press the sunscreen film to the glass, making the top edge of film even with the top edge of the glass. Spread the film from side to side and then from the top down with your hands.

4. Slide the film into place with firm pressure, using your palms to push it on the window, if it's crooked.

5. Apply the squeegee beginning from the middle at the top of the film and working outward toward each edge.

6. Continue applying the film with firm even pressure of the squeegee, working from the middle and straight out to each side. Apply the film in sections the width of the squeegee until you reach the base of the window.

7. Press a ruler along the edge of the window frame against the glass and run the utility blade along the ruler in a long cut to remove any remaining film at the edges of the window.

8. Peel off the excess bits of film.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the manufacturer's instructions before applying the product.

• Turn off fans and blowers in the room before removing the film's backing.

• If possible, apply window film during moderate temperatures, 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Apply the film in the morning or evening when the glass is cooler.

• Automotive suppliers carry squeegees and card squeegees.

• If you have difficulty removing the liner, give it a fast, hard pull.

• Leave windows in place to apply the sunscreen film--it isn't necessary to take the windows down.

• Avoid creasing the film. Creases won't come out.

• Don't use grease-cutting or concentrated dish soap to apply window film. These products may cause cloudiness or interfere with the adhesive.

References

• U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Savers: Windows
• The SunShield Pros: Do It Yourself Window Tinting and Treatments
• Shop4WindowFilms: Film Instructions

Resources

• University of Florida Extension: Window Management for Energy Conservation