REMOVING DAMAGED OR DETERIORATED WINDOW FILM
There are many different window films on the market and some do not perform as well as others. Window film will begin to deteriorate by being exposed to high temperatures (IR rays) and UV rays over an extended period of years. Low quality films fail at a much faster rate.
There are several types of window film failures. These are the most predominate issues:
Discoloration:
The yellow colorants in dye based films begin to breakdown turning the film purple or fading out completely. When discoloration begins to occur it accelerates the deterioration of the film (solar rays will attack the molecular structure of the film/plastic).
Bubbling:
Happens when a chemical reaction with the adhesive causes oxidation to occur. There are many reasons for this oxidation to occur, from low quality adhesives to sub-standard film application. Window film being exposed for an extended period of time to the sun and its harsh UV rays, heat (IR rays) and visible light can initiate a chemical reaction. High quality films such as Solar Gard films combined with professional installation will minimize this chemical reaction from occurring (hence the reason you get a lifetime warranty with Solar Gard films).
Delamination:
Delamination can occur in long streaks across the middle of the film or start on the edges moving inward. This usually happens in multi-layer poorly manufactured films. Again since window film is applied to a glass pane that receives direct sunlight, the solar energy over time will cause film to breakdown. Using a high end film such as Solar Gard window films, will avoid you from having this issue.
Peeling:
Poor quality adhesive or incorrect film application can cause window film to start peeling. Sometimes this can be repairable but most often it needs replacement.
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How is high quality window film & adhesive removed:
- The process of removing window film will depend upon the quality of the film & adhesive originally used, the amount of direct sunlight exposure, and the length of time the film has been applied.
- Under normal circumstances we remove high quality film such as Solar Gard films by starting in one corner and peeling back at the correct angle to the glass to minimize adhesive on the glass. Having an experienced professional to remove window film is highly recommended since they can handle the various situation that might be encountered.
- If adhesive remains on the glass it can be removed with a special razer blade that won’t scratch the glass. Sometimes an adhesive removal solvent might be required.
- After the film and adhesive have been properly removed you will need to thoroughly clean the glass surface before a new film application. Inappropriate adhesive removal can cause the new application to have contaminants which can cause poor aesthetics or premature bubbling of the new film.
How is aged & low quality window films and adhesives removed:
- The process of removing old & baked-on window film will depend upon the quality of the film & adhesive used, the amount of direct sunlight exposure and the length of time the film has been applied.
- Low quality window films & adhesives will bake itself to the glass, penetrating the pores on the surface of the glass causing it to be extremely difficult and time consuming for proper removal. The longer the film has been on the windows and exposed to direct sunlight, UV rays and heat (IR rays) will determine how much work is required for removal.
- Low quality film can delaminate causing a layer of film to remain attached to the adhesive and subsequently to the glass. This layer of film will continue to protect the adhesive that is baked to the glass surface. When this happens a stainless steel blade designed for this purpose will be used for removing film and adhesive from the glass. This process is time consuming and tedious.
How is aged & low quality window films and adhesives removed:
- The process of removing old & baked-on window film will depend upon the quality of the film & adhesive used, the amount of direct sunlight exposure and the length of time the film has been applied.
- Low quality window films & adhesives will bake itself to the glass, penetrating the pores on the surface of the glass causing it to be extremely difficult and time consuming for proper removal. The longer the film has been on the windows and exposed to direct sunlight, UV rays and heat (IR rays) will determine how much work is required for removal.
- Low quality film can delaminate causing a layer of film to remain attached to the adhesive and subsequently to the glass. This layer of film will continue to protect the adhesive that is baked to the glass surface. When this happens a stainless steel blade designed for this purpose will be used for removing film and adhesive from the glass. This process is time consuming and tedious.
Additional tools that can be utilized for removing old film & adhesives. Most professional window tinting companies have these available when needed:
- Industrial steamer – this helps soften and breakdown old adhesive when steaming directly to the adhesive under the film.
- Heat gun – Sometimes this will help soften film and old adhesive, caution should be taken to avoid overheating the glass. If not used properly it will cause premature seal failure and/or glass breakage.
- Special glue softening chemicals (solvents) can be used if the film has been fully removed and only adhesive remains on glass surface.
