How to measure, fit and remove window film

Measure the glass

Measure each pane separately, inside the frame, not the frame itself. Windows that look the same can be a few millimeters apart. Add 0.8 in (2 cm) on every edge for trimming.

Choose a roll width

Pick a roll at least as wide as your glass plus trimming, so you don't need joins: 11.8 in (30 cm) rolls fit glass up to 10.2 in (26 cm) wide, 17.7 in (45 cm) up to 16.1 in (41 cm), 21.7 in (55 cm) up to 20.1 in (51 cm), 35.4 in (90 cm) up to 33.9 in (86 cm) and 47.2 in (120 cm) up to 45.7 in (116 cm). Wider glass takes strips joined side by side.

Roll lengths depend on the film, from 39.4 in (100 cm) to 32.8 ft (10 m). A 78.7 in (200 cm) roll gives at least two pieces for panes up to 37.8 in (96 cm) tall, and a single piece for panes up to 77.2 in (196 cm).

What you need

For film: a tape measure, a spray bottle, a soft squeegee and a sharp craft knife. For tiles: a tape measure, a spirit level, a sharp craft knife and a clean cloth.

Fitting window film

1. Clean the glass, corners too, and wipe it with a lint-free cloth.
2. Cut the film to the glass size plus 0.8 in (2 cm) on every edge, on a clean, protected surface.
3. Mist the glass well. Peel off the clear backing, place the film and slide it into position while it's wet.
4. Squeegee from the center out. Trim to the glass edge with a sharp knife, leaving a tiny gap at the frame, and let it settle.

Air bubbles and removal

Lift a bubbled section while it's still wet, add water and smooth it from the center to the edge. Tiny water pockets settle with time.

To remove the film, lift a corner and peel. Static cling uses no adhesive, so nothing is left on the glass. Keep the backing if you want to store it.

Fitting peel-and-stick tile

1. Clean off grease and dust. The wall must be smooth, flat and completely dry. Test a hidden spot first.
2. Mark a level baseline and lay out the sheets before peeling, so cuts and seams land where you want them.
3. Peel a small section of backing, align the edge and press from the center out, removing the backing as you go.
4. Cut around corners before applying. Press every edge firmly and wipe with a soft cloth.

Work out the area you want to cover and add 10% for cuts. Complex corners or pattern matching may need more.

Before you begin

Film goes on smooth, flat glass only. Check compatibility with your window manufacturer first, especially for coated or specialty glass. Decorative patterns don't give full privacy.

Tiles go on smooth, clean, dry surfaces such as painted walls, existing tile, cabinet fronts and glass panels, depending on the product. In a shower, keep them above the splash zone, and they don't replace a heat shield behind a stove. Removal can affect paint, so test first and check with your landlord.

Seaming film on wide glass

When glass is wider than your roll allows, install two strips side by side. Cut each piece with trimming allowance on top, bottom and outer sides. Mist the pane thoroughly with water so both pieces slide into place. Align the un-cut factory edges against each other in the center without overlapping. Once aligned, squeegee from the center seam outward to push water toward the frame, then trim the outer margins.

Storing removed static cling

To store static cling film after peeling it off, place it flat on a clean table. Reapply the original clear backing film over the smooth side to protect it from dust. Roll the sheet loosely with the backing intact rather than folding it, as folds can leave permanent creases. Store the roll upright or in a container until you are ready to reapply it.

Selecting your film type

Choose your film according to the screening requirements of your room. Fit Privacy window film on panes where you want to obstruct clear sightlines. For areas where full screening is not needed, fit a Stained glass window film, as decorative patterns do not give full privacy. To explore options, see Which window film gives the most privacy?.

Delivery and returns

Delivery is $6.95, or free on orders from $49. The delivery time for your country shows on each product page and at checkout.

If you need to make a return, submit a request within 30 days of delivery. You pay the return shipping. Read our Delivery and returns page for full details.