Tinted window film is a good choice for windows when you want some added privacy and better insulation in the home or need some shade from a streetlamp outside a bedroom window. Whatever your needs for tinted film, note a few tips for successfully applying it on your own.

Inside or outside

While most window film is meant for the interior of the windows, some glare control film is meant for outside the windows. Dual paned or double glazed windows especially can create more glare that can't be controlled with interior film, and this film often gets applied outside. Always check with the manufacturer or read the package instructions before installation rather than assuming that all film gets applied inside the windows.

Cleaning the window

Cleaning the window thoroughly is key to a smooth installation. Use rubbing alcohol or a solution of white vinegar and water with a lint-free cloth or even coffee filters to remove all built-up debris. Go over the windows again with a fresh cloth or filter to dry the glass thoroughly, and then apply the film.

Installing the film at the right time

Direct sunlight, bitterly cold glass, high humidity levels, and other such weather conditions can interfere with the adherence of the film onto the glass, so always check with the film manufacturer for any recommendations as to the best time of day or best weather conditions for installing the film. Putting off that installation for a few days until the weather gets warm or the humidity levels go down can mean an installation job that last longer and which isn't as likely to streak or bubble.

Stretch completely before trimming

Window film will usually have some stretch or "give," and it may get a bit longer and wider as you apply it, especially as you flatten and squeegee it into place. It's good to do all this stretching over the window glass entirely before you start doing any trimming, as you may find that the film shifts and moves along the window as you stretch each side. Trimming it prematurely can mean an uneven trim and cutting away too much along any one side. You might also see that as you stretch and apply the film, you need to peel it off part of the window and straighten it and then reapply it. To ensure a good trim job, do all the necessary stretching, flattening, and smoothing needed, and get the film in place entirely before you start trimming.