You’re most likely fed up with nosy neighbors looking in if you have a back door or kitchen door with multiple windows. And while you can add shears or curtains to such doors, they tend to move as you open and close them, which is pretty annoying. But frosted window films are the ideal solution.
To apply frosted window film, thoroughly clean the window and measure and cut the film in the dimensions you need. Then remove the film’s backing and apply it from top to bottom. Use a squeegee to eliminate bubbles, center the film if needed, and trim the extra. Let it dry.
Applying frosted window film is pretty straightforward and doesn’t require professional assistance. Plus, it can provide privacy without compromising on the natural light coming in. So, let’s see how you can apply the film to your windows or doors, the benefits you can get, and the brands you should choose.
How to Apply Frosted Window Film
Applying frosted window film is a pretty short process and doesn’t require a lot of tools. It also doesn’t take much time and is easy to do, even for a first-time DIYer.
Prep and Gather Materials
To apply the window film, you need the following:
- Frosted window film (on Amazon)
- Squeegee (on Amazon)
- Box cutter
- Pencil and tape measure
- Baby shampoo or dish soap
Once you have the items you need, you can get started. The first thing you should do is clean the window. For this, avoid using vinegar, ammonia, or a conventional window cleaner—these can leave behind a residue that can react with the glue and prevent the film from sticking.
Instead, use baby shampoo or dish soap to clean the windows, and don’t leave any traces that would react with the glue. Mix a little shampoo or soap with water, spray it on the window, and use a squeegee to dry it.
Once you’re done cleaning, the next step is to prepare the frosted film. Again, apply the film during the coolest time of the day (late afternoon or early morning) to avoid streaking.
How to Measure and Cut the Film
You should measure your window before you order the film. This is for two reasons.
First, films are available in different sizes, and you want one that is big enough to cover the entire window. Second, you should order a little more than you need in case of accidents, so you can cut it wider than the area you need to cover. And you should leave an extra inch around the border to apply the film squarely.
Once you know the measurements, make the required marks on the film. Then, use a box cutter to cut it. Ensure you put something underneath the film, like a scrap board or a cutting mat, so you don’t scratch the work surface.
How to Apply the Film to the Door or Window
To apply the film to your window or door, here’s what you should do:
- Start by removing the backing of the film. This can be tricky, and it’s better to have someone to help you, especially if you’re working with a long film (like one that you’ll apply on a full-sized window).
(An easy way to remove the backing is by using transparent tape. Put 2-3 pieces on a corner and pull it back—the peel will start coming off. As you remove the backing, get someone else to spray the film’s back (with the shampoo and water mixture), which you’ll be putting onto the window.)
- Once the piece of film is ready to apply to the window, pick it up, apply it from the top, and work your way downwards. Spray the film and your hands with the baby shampoo and water mixture while you work to make the task easier, eliminate the bubbles on it, and do not leave any fingerprints.
- When you’re done, make sure it’s centered. If it isn’t, you should adjust it before the glue on the film dries out. But if the film starts drying before you’re done, respray it.
- Use a squeegee or a straight edge of something sturdy like an old credit card to remove bubbles from the film, if there are any.
- Once you center the film and get the bubbles out, trim it, but make sure you leave around 1/8th of an inch to allow the film to shrink as it dries.
It’ll take around half an hour for the film to dry, so ensure you’re careful until it does.
What are the Benefits of Frosted Window Film?
There are several other benefits you can get from a frosted window film. We’ve already mentioned that it allows light to come in, and you can get more privacy by covering glass doors and windows with it to prevent others from getting a look inside your house.
But you can also use it inside your house. For instance, you can use it on clear shower glass or windows to get more privacy in the bathroom. You can also use patterned film to spruce up your room by applying it on doors, mirrors, and windows, especially on the edges.
Some people also put a golden frosted film on a window that gets the afternoon sun. As a result, they enjoy a nice, warm glow in the room as the sun starts to descend.
What are the Best Brands of Frosted Window Film to Use?
Many brands are available, and the easiest way to determine which is the most suitable choice for you is by going through customer reviews. Some brands people usually prefer include Artscape, Gila, and Coavas.