For over 35 years, Michigan Glass Coatings has served metro Detroit. We assist residential and commercial property owners through installing security film, solar window film, solar shades, decorative window films and graphic decal films for their buildings. We work with 3M – one of the leading names when it comes to films and adhesives.
Frequently, customers have questions about this or other aspects of our business. They want to know how we install 3M window film, what the cleaning process is like and whether there is a window film solution that offers increased safety and protection.
In the following, we seek to answer some of these common questions, as compiled from 3M's FAQs page.
Reasons to install window film
There are a variety of reasons why property owners choose to have 3M film applied to their buildings. Some of main ones are that window films are cost-effective, improve tenant comfort, help realize energy savings and upgrade the aesthetics and appearance of a building. Window films also provide increased safety and security.
Application
As an experienced 3M authorized window film dealer, Michigan Glass Coatings can install 3M window film. Customers often ask us how the installation process works.
The first step is to prepare the window area for the application. We do this by putting drop cloths on the floor that serve as a protective layer, removing furniture when necessary. The next stage involves cleaning. We use a simple solution of water and ammonia along with razor blade scrapers.
Next, the film is sprayed with a slip solution, made from detergent and water. This ensures the film's proper positioning, and it's then applied to the window glass. Finally, we remove any excess water, trim edges and dry the edges using a professional grade squeegee and adhering to proper techniques.
How long will it take for 3M Window Films to dry, and how long does 3M Window Film last?
Thirty days is the standard amount of time it takes for the film to completely dry and cure. However, the particular type of film as well as weather conditions will affect the exact duration, which can be anywhere from a few days to upwards of 45 days. Window films last for many years.
"The exact length of time depends upon the type of film applied, window orientation, type of glass it is applied to and the particular climate in which it is applied. Most applications last well beyond the warranty length," 3M states.
Cleaning
After 30 days have elapsed, you can clean your 3M window films. Normal household cleaning solutions work well, including ammonia based products (i.e. Windex), used together with a lint-free cloth or towel. The only rule is to avoid abrasive products since they can scratch or damage the film.
How do 3M Safety and Security Window Films work?
Many homeowners and commercial property owners want a solution that improves safety and security. 3M Safety and Security Window Films are designed precisely for this purpose. They offer glass shatter-resistant capabilities by helping hold glass pieces together under adverse conditions, including severe weather and attempted break-ins.
3M Safety & Security Window Films are unique from other films in that they're made from a thicker polyester as well as a thicker, more aggressive adhesive.
As 3M explains, 3M Ultra Safety & Security Window Films offer a high-degree of protection, as they are built using a special micro-layered polyester technology, in turn increasing the films' tear resistance by a considerable amount.
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of window films, contact Michigan Glass Coatings.