Window films have always been a popular addition to residential and commercial windows. Besides enhanced privacy and lower energy bills, it also offers UV protection. In 2020, there were 1.5 million skin cancer cases, which primarily happens due to UV rays!
Though efficient, window films need special attention to maintain their appearance and lifespan. Regular cleanup and care with utmost care are required to make the material last.
If you’re wondering how to do it, follow these tips!
1. Inspect the window
Before you clean the window films, inspect them closely. Notice which areas need special attention, such as smudges, spots, and old and stubborn dirt stains. Plan your cleaning approach according to the dirt accumulation on the film.
There’s no need to scrub all the areas equally. If some areas of the film have more dirt, then focus your effort on that area. In zones with lighter to minimal dirt, take it easy and clean only as much as necessary.
While inspecting, check for signs of damage to the window itself. If you notice any, there’s no point in cleaning the window film. Instead, opt for window replacement Richmond VA, from a reputable company.
2. Gather compatible cleaning fabric
Window film can get scratched easily, so be cautious about what material you can use to clean it.
Most people assume that paper towels or fresh towels from the laundry won’t cause harm as they are completely clean. However, that’s not the reason for the scratches. The fibers of these materials are way too stiff and leave marks.
Instead, invest in a soft sponge dedicated to cleaning window films or use an all-purpose microfiber cloth. After cleaning, use another microfiber cloth or a soft and gentle rubber squeegee.
If you feel uncertain about whether your material will scratch the film or not, test it on a less noticeable corner of the window film.
3. Only use gentle cleansers
Your window film can’t stand the same harsh chemicals as you use on your kitchen counter or washroom tiles. Those may damage and lower the lifespan of your window film.
Instead, you must invest in a high-quality glass cleaner or any other cleaning solution recommended by the window film manufacturers.
Some people also swear by liquid dish soap diluted in warm water. However, opt for this hack only when you run out of options. You never know how the long-term and consistent use of these chemicals might affect the film.
Despite which cleaner you use, always avoid cleaners with ammonia. Ammonia can ruin the integrity of the entire window film and its functionality.
4. Start with a little bit of cleanser
Slightly dampen the cleaning fabric in the gentle cleanser. Don’t saturate the material completely in the cleanser.
Remember, there’s no need to soak the entire window film to clean it. Otherwise, you may leave streaks of soap that will stand out when sunlight hits the window. Alternatively, apply the cleanser with a spray bottle to reduce the amount.
5. Go with the grain
To start cleaning, make sure your movements are in the same direction as the cut lines of the edges. For instance, at the top and bottom edges, scrub horizontally. At the sides, scrub vertically.
The reason?
This way, you won’t pull on the window film from the edges. It ensures that the film stays firmly in its position and looks as good as new.
If the window is quite large, there might be some seams. Check where they are, and always clean them in the same direction as the splice runs. This ensures that you won’t lift the edges.
6. Dry with care
After you’ve cleaned the film thoroughly, get another microfiber cloth or a squeegee. Clean it until dry with your chosen material. Don’t let even the slightest bit of moisture stay. Otherwise, water might go under the film, create bubbles, and harm the film.
Make sure you follow the above-mentioned rules about direction near the edges and seams.
7. Follow these don’ts
Besides cleaning the window film, here are some precautionary steps
- Clean gently and firmly. Never apply excess pressure to prevent the film from getting distorted or dented.
- If you notice air bubbles in the window film, don’t try to pop them. Otherwise, you’ll create a hole in the film, ruin its integrity, and let water reach behind it.
- Keep a dedicated cleaning cloth and solution for the outside film surface as it contains gritty particles. Don’t use it on the inside to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
With this process, you’ll keep your window films as good as new. So, embrace them and ensure pristine-looking window films for years to come!