Will Window Film Damage My Windows

The fact that window film will damage windows is a common misconception. Window film installation is not a DIY job. So long as you have selected the right type of window film and have it professionally installed, you should have no problems.

In this article, we will discuss common misconceptions that prevent people from installing window films and the real causes that contribute to window damage.

Before we dive into some of the misconceptions about window film, we will help you understand what it is.

Window film generally combines some form of plastic with an adhesive to create a covering for windows.

It adheres to glass areas to improve energy efficiency, shatter resistance, and aesthetics and it is commonly available for commercial or residential use.

There are many different types of window film, but the most common are solar window films which reduce heat and cold as well as protect the home’s furnishings.

There are several common misconceptions out there that continue to put people off from installing window film, including:

• Window film applied to glass will cause the glass to break

Glass can crack with or without window film and only when the window film and/or glass is not installed to the correct manufacture guidelines will this be a potential cause for breakage.

• Window film will make my windows too dark

Window films are available in a wide variety of shades and the vast majority are invisible to the naked eye. New modern-day window films focus on specific wavelengths of light, such as infrared heat. This still allows a large portion of the visible light to be transmitted through the window.

• Window film will make my windows look cloudy and foggy

People often assume that that the reason that their windows are cloudy is because of the film. The truth is, however, that most of the time the real cause is a broken seal. When the seal breaks, moisture can get inside the window unit, and eventually turn into vapor that causes cloudiness.

The most common window damage is breakage when a window takes a hit from a backyard football game or a particularly violent storm. Whether it was an accident or an act of nature, broken windows are just a part of life.

Over years of stress and tension, the windows can also weaken considerably, even if they look undamaged on the surface.

Additionally, unprofessional, and poor window film installation can cause a lot of problems too, including:  

• Broken seals

As mentioned earlier, if the seal fails, this allows moisture to collect between the panes of glass. The moisture condenses and creates a foggy appearance. This process has nothing to do with whether the glass is tinted with window film.

•  Thermal heat stress

If window film products are applied to the wrong type of window glass, it can cause thermal heat stress and that leads to seal failure, cracks, and or breakage.

• Your window warranties are voided

If your windows fail for any reason, and you did a DIY job or hired an unlicensed installer, your window company automatically voids their warranty agreement. This leaves you paying for potentially costly window replacements!

Your windows will never be damaged when you select the right type of window film for the window and your needs, and it is installed by a licensed, professional window film installer.

When you work with ALLCOOL, experienced window film installers will let you know if there are windows that should not have the film installed on the glass and honour the manufacturer’s recommendations for approved window film products.