3M Films
There are a lot of misconceptions about window films. Select any of the links to learn the answers to frequently asked questions.
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.
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.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
No. The film’s specially designed adhesive will not adhere to Plexiglas®.
Absolutely! You will notice enhanced energy performance from your tinted / Low-E glass windows after installation.
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.
Please visit the warranty section for more information.
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.
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.
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 can not 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.
Yes! 3M has a GSA contract for both labor and material to facilitate government procurement.
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:
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?
Please visit the warranty section for more information.
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 can not 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.
LOWER ENERGY COSTS
Now, even the light that fills your home can be just the way you want it. The new 3M line of Scotchtint™ Night Vision window film offers protection from the sun's damaging UV rays and controls heat and glare, while inviting warm, natural light into the room and increasing comfort. And, unlike most high-performance sun control films, Night Vision film has a low interior reflectivity that leaves your view clearer than ever, especially at night. That powerful combination makes Night Vision film a welcome addition to any home.
3M Fasara™ interior design films add a new dimension to space. Like some Scotchcal™ films, these decorative films are applied to glass to create a beautiful etched appearance without the associated high cost. These maintenance-free, fingerprint-resistant films create a uniform rice paper appearance that is not typically found in traditional window films. Light is dispersed softly, rendering a high-class, tranquil atmosphere. Fasara™ films are also suited for interior glass partitions or the inside surface of windows. Lastly, Fasara™ films reduce heat and glare, and block up to 99% of UV light to reduce fabric and furniture fade.
3M Scotchcal™ Dusted Crystal and Frosted Crystal films simulate acid-etched and sand blasted glass surfaces when privacy or an enhanced image is needed. These films are a low-cost alternative to traditional acid-etching or sand blasting, and can be applied to thin glass. Scotchcal™ is very stable with minimal shrinkage, and has a moisture-resistant lining, which makes it easier to weed. These durable, cast vinyl films feature a clear, pressure sensitive adhesive and a clear, synthetic liner. In addition, glare is reduced by the film’s matte finish.
Lastly, other Scotchcal™ films offer privacy and security by blocking out glass with a solid white or black film.
Blast-resistant window film was credited for saving many lives during the September 2001 terrorist attack on the Pentagon. In the event of a nearby explosion, a building's Achilles heel is typically its glazed surfaces. Shattered into razor sharp fragments and propelled at high speeds, window and door glass can cause severe injury to a building's occupants. In addition, shattered glazing allows blast over-pressure to enter the building. This, too, poses a serious threat to the safety of those inside and outside.
Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended 3M Window Films
Read more: Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended 3M Window Films
The 3M Quality Promise
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.
