Frequently Asked Questions

There are a lot of misconceptions about window films. Select any of the links to learn the answers to frequently asked questions.

What is window film made of?
Do you install window film on the inside or outside of a building?
What is the procedure to install window film?
Can you apply window film to Plexiglas®?
Can you apply window film to tinted or Low-E glass?
What is the life expectancy of window film?
How is 3M window film warranted?
Will my energy costs decrease?
Will my furniture fade be reduced?
How do I clean the filmed surface after installation?
Does 3M have a GSA contract?

Different polyesters are transformed during the manufacturing process to produce a thin, transparent film that adheres to glass when a pressure sensitive adhesive is activated by a mild solution of dishwashing detergent and water.

Window film is typically installed on the interior side of a window. As it is a finished product, is best installed after all other nearby construction is complete. If access to the interior side of the window is difficult to obtain, an exterior application can be performed.

The individual installation steps, assuming a typical interior application, would be as follows:

Prepare window area by placing drop cloths on floor and / or moving nearby furniture

Thoroughly clean interior side of glass pane and gaskets with a mild solution of dishwashing detergent and water to remove dirt and other residue

Wet glass with solution

Place film against glass

Squeegee to remove excess solution between glass and film

Trim film to gasket

"5-way" film edges to ensure film lies flat

Wipe film to ensure clean finished product

Remove drop cloths and replace furniture to original positions

Click here to see window film being installed by 3M-certified applicators.

Can you apply window film to Plexiglas®?

No. The film’s specially designed adhesive will not adhere to Plexiglas®.

Can you apply window film to tinted / Low-E glass?

Absolutely! You will notice enhanced energy performance from your tinted / Low-E glass windows after installation.

What is the life expectancy of window film?

The life expectancy of window film is dependent upon multiple variables (climate, exposure to sun, etc…). The average life expectancy is ten years and beyond; and, many customers have had 3M window film on their windows for over twenty years.

How is 3M window film warranted?

Please visit the warranty section for more information.

Will my energy costs decrease?

Absolutely! The amount of money saved depends upon the type of film chosen and certain property-specific variables (location, climate, existing energy costs, HVAC system, etc…). After obtaining some basic energy unit costs for a given building, we can conduct a 3M Energy Audit to estimate the annual dollars saved by different film types.

Will my furniture fade be reduced?

Absolutely! Furniture / fabric fade is caused by multiple factors. 10% of fading is caused by miscellaneous factors (i.e. fabric color, material, etc). 25% is caused by heat. 25% is caused by visible light. And the remaining 40% is caused by UV rays. 3M window films can mitigate 90% of the factors that cause furniture / fabric fade.

How do I clean the filmed surface after installation?

Window films may be washed with common washing solutions (including ammonia-based products) thirty days after installation. Abrasive cleaning agents and bristle brushes which would scratch the film can not be used. Synthetic sponges, squeegees, or soft cloths are recommended in addition to the cleaning solution. To maintain your warranty, do not use tape or other adhesive products on the film.

Does 3M have a GSA contract?

Yes! 3M has a GSA contract for both labor and material to facilitate government procurement.

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