Frequently Asked Questions
Will window film ruin my view?
No, 3M window film will actually reduce so much glare and heat that it will add clarity. The pleasure of the beautiful view will return.
How will I benefit from 3M window film?
- Lower Energy Bills
- Reduce Heat & Glare
- Eliminate 99% UV rays
- Decrease “hot spot” to increase efficiency of the air conditioner in the summer and heater in the winter.
Is the film difficult to maintain after installation?
High quality 3M window film and scratch-resistant coatings make cleaning as easy as before.
Will the film give a mirrored exterior appearance?
3M has developed a new line, the Night Vision series that is actually 7% less reflective than naturally clear glass.
What is window film made of?
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.
Do you install window film on the inside or outside of a building?
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.
What is the procedure to install window film?
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
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?
3M has invested millions of dollars in film research and development. And today, millions of square feet of 3M window film have been installed throughout the world. As a result, 3M window films have a comprehensive warranty that covers labor (removal and reapplication) and material and protects against:
- Blistering
- Bubbling
- Cracking
- Crazing
- Delamination
- Discoloration / Purpling
- Glass Breakage
- Peeling
- Seal Failure
3M warrants that its Scotchshield™ Ultra Safety & Security films will maintain their strength, tear, and penetration-resistant properties - essential product characteristics when glass retention is the primary objective.
Any and all defects are warranted by the 3M Company. Not only does 3M stand behind its products, it stands on top of them.
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 cannot 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.
