How to Remove Old Window Film

More recent window films are easy to remove, by simply peeling the film away from the glass. However, if the window film has been on the window long or doesn't remove easily from the glass when pulled, then the following instructions may help.

The first step of any project is to gather the proper tools. When removing old window film, you will need: Single-edge razor blades in a holder or scraper and a spray bottle filled with the following mixture: 8oz of water combined with 4 oz ammonia and a teaspoon of dishwasher liquid soap. Next, you will need disposable towels to clean off the edge of the razor blade, along with old towels or rags to protect windowsill from loose adhesive and a drop cloth to protect your floors. Once you have collected these tools and mixed the removal solution, you want to remove the top film layer.

Using the razor blade, pry loose approximately to of the film from glass top edge. Next, spray the water-ammonia-dish soap solution behind the lifted film, and then permit it to soak for several minutes. Continue to spray the solution as you continue to pry loose the film from the glass until you have peeled approximately 3 to 4 inches of film from the glass. After you have peeled away 3 to 4 inches, use both hands, grasp the film, and firmly pull the film. Note: Many find it easier to pull the film diagonally from one corner toward the center. Keep spraying the solution behind the film to loosen the adhesive.

If time permits, allow the solution to soak over night. Spray the solution onto the top of the film until the window is soaked. Cover the entire glass area with a plastic bag, using masking tape to secure the plastic bag to the inside of the window frame. Permit the solution to soak for approximately 2 to 4 hours. Peel away the top edge of the film and spray more solution behind the film, then reseal the plastic bag, and permit it to soak overnight. This will permit the solution to soften the adhesive, making it easier to peel away the old film.

Important: Do not leave black or dark over the window. This can cause heat stress on the window, especially if it is a dual-pane window, which could cause the window to crack.

After you have removed all the film from the window, there could remain a translucent or clear film of adhesive on the glass. To remove the adhesive film, spray the entire surface of the glass with the solution until it beads and runs down the glass. Work the solution into the adhesive until it turns milky white, which is an indication that the adhesives bond on the glass has been broken. Using quick upward movements, you can now scrap away the adhesive with a new razor blade. Make sure that you have the drop cloth in place before you begin scrapping away the adhesive. Wipe away the adhesive as it collects on the blade with a disposable towel. Do not allow the adhesive to get onto the carpet or on any fabrics as it will adhere to these and will not wash out. Change blades frequently to avoid scratching and marring the glass.

Once you have removed all of the adhesive, wet the window again with the ammonia-water solution, and then clean the widow using the squeegee. Carefully inspect the window for any small white dots of adhesive and remove them. Until the ammonia evaporates, the window may appear cloudy for a few hours. If you are going to reapply fresh film, immediately clean the glass with the soapy-water application solution then permit the glass to rest for at least 24 hours before applying the new film.

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