We hear it all the time. People shy away from window film because of some hearsay that it will damage their windows. Usually, a neighbor, friend, or college has provided them told them this and they assume it’s true even though it’s not. As a result, they avoid a solution that could really improve the comfort and energy efficiency of their home.

The fact that window film will damage windows is a common misconception. It’s a lie that’s spread around by window manufacturers. This usually happens because they’re looking for a way to avoid replacing faulty products that are under warranty.

People are told that the reason that their windows are foggy or cloudy is because of the film, whereas in reality, it’s not. In this article, we’ll discuss why this happens and the real causes that contribute to window damage.

What Is Window Film?

Before we dive into some of the misconceptions about window film, it may helpful to understand what it is and how it works. Window film is an insulated sheet of durable polyester, called PET, that’s adhered to glass areas to improve energy efficiency, shatter resistance, and aesthetics.

There are many different types of window film, but the most common are solar control films. These films are great for improving the comfort of homes or buildings that get too hot during the summer. With a naturally cooler atmosphere, hvac units don’t have to work as hard, which saves the property owner money on energy expenses.

Debunking a Common Myth

The reason that people think window film will ruin their windows is because they’ve been given false information. This is usually passed on through hearsay or because they themselves have been told a tall tale by the company they bought their actual windows from.

What happens is that for some unknown reason, their windows start to become cloudy. They call up the window manufacturer and explain what’s going on in order to file a warranty claim. The manufacturer sends out an inspector who examines the windows under the guise of trying to find the cause of the problem.

Really, what these technicians are trained to do is find anything that help the company get out of the terms of their warranty and avoid paying for replacement windows. They spot the window film and bam! – They’ve found their scapegoat. The news is reported to the homeowners who, in turn, are led to believe that window film caused the problem.

The Real Cause of Cloudy Windows

The truth is, however, that window film has nothing to do with window cloudiness. In reality, most of the time, the real cause is a broken seal. When the seal breaks, moisture can get inside the window unit, and eventually turn into vapor that causes cloudiness. This would be something that would fall under warranty and that the manufacturer would have to pay for. So, of course, they blame the film.

The Importance of Working with a Pro

There’s no way that window film will make your windows cloudy. However, there may be a slight chance that the film itself may become cloudy if it’s not installed correctly or you’ve used the wrong type. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional who can install your film correctly and help you find the right product. Even if the film does somehow become cloudy, it can be removed and replaced, which will solve the problem right away. And most contractors offer a warranty on their services so you don’t have to worry about paying extra.

So, Will Window Film Damage My Windows?

Absolutely not. So long as you have it professionally installed and get the right type, you should have no problems. Window film will not make your windows cloudy or foggy inside. And whenever you want, you can have it removed without causing any damage.

Get a Quote

Kick your energy efficiency problems to the curb. Call Fort Collins Window Tinting today to get a quote on window film for your Fort Collins home or commercial property.

Mike Kinsey

Mike Kinsey has been working in the window tinting industry for over 10 years. Since 2008, he and his team have assisted on numerous installs in the Fort Collins area, totaling approximately 250,000 sq. ft. of film. As the Operations Manager for Fort Collins Window Tinting, Mike's duties include project management, customer relations, and sales. He is well-versed in the technical procedures for window film installation as well as the differences between the hundreds of types and styles of film on the market. Mike is certified by 3M, EnerLogic, and AIA for continuing education and is regarded as one of the top experts in his field.