frequently asked questions

We know you lie awake at night thinking about window film. Just like we do! Others have visions of sugar plum fairies. But you? You’re not like that! So in order to help you sleep at night, here we go with some frequently asked questions you’re dying to know about window film!

What types of window film are available?

There are so many types of window film that we couldn’t possibly list all of them here. But in the past few months, we’ve covered some of the most popular, such as Safety Film, Low-E film, and Smart Film. But there are so many more films than that! There’s decorative film, frosted film, privacy film, and so on.

How to choose the best window film?

Sometimes people call us because someone they know has window film and they like the way their office or home feels. That is, the temperature is more regulated, there’s less glare, or the film matches the decor. We have lots of ideas and can help you narrow down your choices.

Can I install window film myself? Why or why not?

Technically, you could install your own window film. However, our installers are professionals. That’s pretty much all they do (install window film). Well, they also love spicy food and pizza, but that’s another story! You could install your own but…do you really want to risk it? Your measurements need to be perfect, and you need all the equipment. It’s so much easier to have a professional install it. Also, if you install your window film yourself, you could end up voiding the warranty, as Bob Vila explains.

How long does window film last?

We can’t give you an exact time frame for how long your film will last. We do know that it has to do with the quality of the film. Low quality film will only last about five years. High quality film will last about ten to twenty years. And of course if you scratch or abuse the film, it won’t last as long (but you already knew that!).

What are the benefits of different tints?

Some window tints offer glare reduction, some reduce UV rays and block heat. Some help insulate your windows. And there’s also safety film. You might have a problem or two choosing. And that’s because all window films sound excellent! Who doesn’t want a safer building or less glare? Nobody, that’s who! Back in the day, we installed automotive window film. And now many cars come with window film already installed. So that tells you how popular it has become.

Are there any drawbacks to window film?

We think there are drawbacks to badly installed window film. If you’re driving around, you might see film that’s cracked, peeling, or turning purple on some car windows. It’s likely that people installed their own film in that case. There’s also the cost of installing film, which comes with any home or business improvement.

We can answer your questions!

You can fill out our Quick Residential Estimate form if you have already decided what you want and need us to install some window film. Otherwise, give us a call and we can give you advice on choosing the best window film for your building. We’d love to help you choose! We work all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area, from San Jose to the East Bay to the San Mateo Peninsula and Marin–and have expanded into southern California (Costa Mesa) and Scottsdale, Arizona, too! Give us a call at our San Francisco location at 415.623.8700.

Automotive Window Film: 5 Frequently Asked Questions

Our clients ask us a lot of questions about window film. You might have heard that there are no stupid questions. And to that we’d add that there are some questions that almost everyone has! Here are a few of the ones we hear all the time!

Does the Film Go on the Outside or the Inside?

The film goes on the inside, although we use the outside of the glass to measure the film. If you look very carefully at already-applied film, you’ll be able to see the edge right up at the tippy-top of the glass.

Window Film Goes on the Inside of the Glass

Will My Window Film Turn Purple?

The short answer is that all window film fades eventually. The slightly longer answer is that the better the quality of window film, the less fading you will have. All window films have red, blue and yellow colors in them. but the yellow fades the fastest, leaving blue and red. Blue and red mixed together make purple, so you end up with purple. For a longer answer, take a look at this article from City Scoop: Why Do Window Films Turn Purple?

Is There Any Interference with my Cell Phone Signal?

We use 3M’s window film. To quote from the 3M website, “Because these films are non-metallized, you can be assured of zero interference with GPS or cell phone signals.” So talk away! Your cell phone signal is safe with our window film.

How Long Does Window Film Take to Apply?

Unless your vehicle is very large with many windows, the job will usually be done within a few hours. We usually recommend that you leave your car with us. By the way, we are now conveniently located in Santa Clara, very close to the San Jose Airport.

3M Window Film Doesn't Interfere with Your Cell Signal — 3M Window Film Doesn’t Interfere with Your Cell Signal

How Do I Care for My Windows?

Use a soft, clean cloth to clean the windows and a squeegee to help dry the windows, along with any normal glass cleaner. The scratch-resistant coating helps protect your windows and ensures that you don’t need to take extra care to protect them.

Have More Questions?

Give us a call, or contact us through our social media channels. We are @WindowWorksCa or @MotorWorksCA on Twitter, on Facebook: WindowWorksCA or MotorWorksCA.