Installation Tips

Advice to ensure proper installation of Window Film

Thank you for your confidence in our window film. For the installation to proceed as smoothly as possible, you may find it helpful to carry out the preparatory tasks listed below.

Prefer to watch a video? Click here.

Before Installation

Window sills

Clear the window sills of any items, including pictures, plants and miscellaneous objects.

Remove curtains or blinds, or hang them in a way that leaves the window unobstructed.

Furniture

Move any furniture that may impede access to the windows.

Cover any items close to the window that you cannot move (remember, you are using water to install the film)

Air conditioning and heating

To limit the amount of dust and particles in the air, turn off the air conditioning and heating or close the vents around the windows scheduled for installation.

Floors and carpets

We recommend cleaning the floors and vacuuming the carpets the day before the installation to limit the chance of dust and particle contamination.

Pets

Pets should be kept outside during installation or in a room away from the area.

Inspection Before installation

Pay attention for broken glass, windows that have come loose or areas that are uneven.

Self‐adhesive stickers, alarm systems and other elements that might affect installation will be need to be removed or taken into consideration.

Broken glass should be replaced. The film can be installed over broken glass but of course this will result in problems for the future if the glass breakage reaches a point of necessary
replacement. The film may also exaggerate the breakage

After Installation

It is necessary to leave a small gap between the edges of the film and the frame of the window. This allows the mounting solution that is used during the application to be squeegeed out during the squeegeeing process. This also insures the film will not be in contact with the frame which could cause the film to lift.

The gap should be no larger than 1/32” (0,8 mm) to 1/16” (1,5 mm).

Drying time

During the film installation, you will remove as much of the installation fluid as possible, but a small amount will still remain. This may result in small water bubbles appearing and/ or a slightly cloudy view. This is normal and should be expected.

Do not pierce the water bubbles during this drying period. This will damage the window film

The water bubbles and cloudy view will disappear over time. Film type and climate conditions will determine the drying time you experience. Warm weather and direct sunlight will shorten the drying time, while cooler climates, cloudy conditions and thicker films may prolong it.

Drying may vary from a few days to a few months. The trapped moisture will dry out completely.

Cleaning

Do not clean the Solar Gard window film for 30 days after it is installed. This helps the installation fluid to dry which secures the special mounting adhesive to the glass.

Most glass cleaners will work well as long as they are in liquid form and not abrasive. A good guide is any window cleaner that can be used on a vehicle windscreen is ideal.

Always use clean, soft materials to clean and dry the coated surfaces. A soft cloth or sponge is recommended for washing the window, followed by another soft cloth or rubber squeegee to dry the film.

To avoid scratching the film, do not use bristle brushes or abrasive sponges. These materials can cause fine scratches on the surface of the Solar Gard window film and cause the polished layer of the film to deteriorate over time.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us.

Video Instructions


We do not recommend peeling the backing sheet off with the film on the floor unless you have a very clean environment as the static in the film will collect the dust. If possible get help from someone else who can hold the film whilst you remove the backing liner.

Credit: MonkeysKnow


This is a Solar Gard official installation guide. Very precise but very detailed. Worth watching for tips though. Note: in trying to cover all aspects of installation, they have included things that you simply do not have to do, but they are obvious.

Credit: Solar Gard Australia


Credit: Rusty Davey