Busting Window Film Myths

Window films have a fast ROI.

With 2019 underway I thought a good place to start the year would be to separate myths from facts when it comes to window films.

There are too many beneficial applications for window films to cover them all here. It may be noted that window films may be used to save energy and money, reduce fading, block out cancer causing UV rays, offer more safety when glass is shattered, make buildings look more contemporary with innovative design and the list goes on and on.

Myth One - Window film voids a window's warranty

One of the biggest myths in the building trades often stated by window installers is that the application of window film on existing or even new windows will void the manufacturer warranty. What they don't mention is that most window film manufacturers may offer their own warranty for both the professionally installed window film AND the window itself.

Myth Two - Window film is a temporary solution

Window film is not a temporary fix. To the contrary, many window films, whether professionally installed on the interior or exterior of glass windows, are warranted to last for 15-20 years, and often exceed that lifespan. After several decades and with the window units still in good condition, new window film can be installed, greatly extending the life of the window.

Myth Three - Vehicles with OEM darkened glass block UV rays

Many vehicle manufacturers offer “privacy” glass that has dark pigments inside the glass itself for windows behind the driver in certain vehicles categories (SUVs, crossovers, pickup trucks). Many drivers assume that the darker glass blocks out the sun's harmful UV spectrum. The truth is that glass allows much of the UV spectrum to pass straight through and onto the skin and eyes of the occupants, which studies have shown may lead to significant skin and eye damage. Professionally installed window film on vehicles will block 99 percent of the UV rays from coming through the glass. The IWFA offers a guide on automotive window film that can found here: automotive law chart.

Myth Four - Window film can make glass bullet-proof

As of the start of 2019, the IWFA is not aware of any window film by itself that can actually meet this claim. Window films, and specifically safety window films, are designed to help hold glass together when shattered or even when a bullet passes though. Often it is the type of glass that already is in place that may offer a level of bullet resistance and not the window film.

Myth Five - Window film is a do it yourself job

While it is possible to install window film as a DIY project, the best way to get the most out of window film is to have it professionally installed. A window film installer may offer a great warranty, advice about the best window film for the job and you may avoid the unsightly bubbles and wrinkles that can result from a DIY installation. You can find a local installer here: local installers.

Author Darrell Smith is the executive director of the nonprofit International Window Film Association. Learn more at www.iwfa.com