Perforated window film goes on the outside of the glass. It’s forgiving to install if you take your time. Here’s how.
Before you start
- Install when the glass and air are above about 5–10°C (40–50°F), out of direct hot sun if you can.
- Clean the glass thoroughly: soapy water, then a razor scraper for paint specks and old glue, then rubbing alcohol. Dry completely.
- Have painter’s tape, a soft squeegee and a sharp utility knife ready.
Apply it dry
Don’t use the soapy-water method on perf. Water gets trapped in the tiny holes and leaves cloudy spots.
- Tape the panel in position along the top edge with the backing still on. Step back and check it’s level and centred inside the gasket.
- Flip the panel up, peel back the top 15 cm (6 in) of backing and fold it over.
- Lay the exposed top edge down and squeegee it across.
- Pull the backing down a little at a time from underneath with one hand while you squeegee with the other, working top to bottom in overlapping horizontal strokes.
- Don’t stretch the film. Stretched perf shrinks back and opens gaps at the edges.
- For panelled windows, overlap panels as marked on your proof.
Laminated or not?
Clear laminate seals the holes so rain and dirt can’t collect in them, keeps the view from inside clearer, and protects the print. For anything outside long-term, laminate is worth it.
Keeping it clean
- Wash with mild soap and water and a soft cloth or sponge.
- Don’t use ice scrapers, razor blades or abrasive pads on the film.
- Keep pressure washers away from the edges.
- On vehicles, don’t run the rear wiper over the perf.
Taking it down
When the promotion’s over, warm the film with a hair dryer, lift a corner and peel slowly at a low angle. Clean any leftover adhesive with rubbing alcohol. Our perf films are designed to remove cleanly within their rated life; leaving them up much longer makes removal harder.
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