You can completely change the decor in your home or business in just a few hours by adding window film! It’s an excellent way to add privacy to areas like kitchens and bathrooms without sacrificing style. 

On the other hand, you may one day want your window film removed. Or, if you move into another space in San Diego, it could have outdated decorative window film.

Although you can remove window film on your own, we professionals urge you not to try. The process usually takes much longer for inexperienced individuals, and there is a high risk of damaging your window’s glass.

Here are a few helpful tips if you’re planning to remove your window film.

Tools Needed for DIY Window Film Removal

The requirements to remove your window film depend on your film type. To take off static cling films, you will need a razor blade, a spray bottle with water, and/or a hair dryer.

In order to remove old, adhesive-based film, you’ll need an ammonia solution, spray bottle, drop cloth, and a razor blade or scraping tool.

How To Remove Static Cling Window Films 

To remove static cling window films without adhesive, simply peel them off.

  1. Start the peel with your fingernail or razor blade.
  2. Keep peeling the entire sheet of film off the glass. 
  3. Work diagonally across the glass.
  4. If you experience difficulties, try wetting it down using water and a spray bottle or heating it with a hairdryer.

How To Take Adhesive-Backed Films Off

Adhesive-backed films are more difficult to remove.

  1. Buy an adhesive removal product like vinegar or specialty window film solvent for tough residues.
  2. Start peeling a little corner of the window film up at a diagonal angle while applying removal solutions to where the glass and films meet. 
  3. Keep peeling and allow some time as you go for the solvent to sit and soak into the film. This may take an hour or longer. *Let it soak overnight for challenging films. 
  4. Once the film is gone, wipe down the glass a final time and polish is free of any trace residue.

If you have questions about removing window film in San Diego, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We would be happy to provide you with a quote for our services.

Mike Kinsey is the Chief Operating Officer at Denver Commercial Window Tinting and has been installing window film for over a decade. His background includes years of experience in the construction industry as well as extensive project management. Mike oversees all day to day operations at the Denver branch, including onsite management of window film installations, sales, and customer relations. His knowledge of security, privacy/decorative, and energy efficient window film products is extensive, giving him the skill and aptitude to select the ideal film for any application. Mike's expertise is backed by certifications from 3M, EnerLogic, and AIA for continuing education.