Car window film: which one to choose?

To protect the interior of your car from the heat or just from the curiosity of passers-by, you have the opportunity to stick films on the windows. There are several different types of films that can be tailored to your needs: solar film, tinted glass, or window coverings due to their appearance.

🚗 What kind of window films are there?

Window films are especially used for protect the salon from the sun or to provide more privacy to the passengers of the vehicle when they move on board. Sold pre-sliced or a stack of paper-wrapped coins, they are very useful for get comfort both for the driver and for other vehicle users.

Currently, there are several types of films for your car windows:

• Solar film : There are several shades from lightest to darkest. There are 5 shades in total. This film is used to filter the UV rays entering the vehicle. On average, it can filter up to 99% of the rays. Because the interior of your car is protected from heat, you use less air conditioning and consume less fuel.
• Tinting film : it can be mirrored, opaque, or high performance. The first two only provide privacy, while the latter also filters out UV rays and strengthens windows from scratches and glass breaks.
• Micro-perforated or sanding film : Usually found on the rear window of a car, allows you to hide the inside of the trunk of a car.

There are also other less specific alternatives for preserving your vehicle's interior, such as window cover or parasol which is located on the dashboard.

👨‍🔧 How to apply window film?

If you want to stick films on windows, you can call a specialist or carry out the procedure yourself. Follow our step-by-step guide to complete the installation yourself.

Required material:

• Windshield washer fluid can
• Microfiber cloth
• Protective gloves
• Roll of film
• Toolbox
• Heat gun

Step 1. Wash the windows in the car

Clean all the windows you want to put the film on. Use a windshield washer fluid with a microfiber cloth, then rinse the windows with demineralized water. This step must be carried out inside and outside the windows.

Step 2. Trim the movie

Measure your windows, then cut off the required amount of film.

Step 3: Apply and thermoform the film.

Clean the windows with soapy water, then apply the film with a squeegee. Then remove air bubbles with a heat gun. It should not be too close to the film to melt it. Repeat the operation with the inside of the glazing.

📍 Where can I find window film?

Window film can be found easily in many retail outlets. So you can buy this ан Line or car suppliers... Plus, it can also be found in DIY or hardware stores with a wide variety of items.

Pay attention to the current legislation on tinted glass and their permission. Indeed, since January 1, 2017 in France it is forbidden to drive with glass tinting more than 30% otherwise, you will incur a fine of 135€ and deduction of 3 points from your driving license.

💶 How much does window film cost?

If you decide to purchase rolls of film, the price usually ranges between 10 € and 30 € depending on the quantity you need. However, if you are looking for custom pre-cut windows, you will need a larger budget as they come in between 50 € and 150 € depending on the number of glasses and their sizes.

Finally, if you choose to install the film by a professional, you will also have to add the cost of the work that will work on your vehicle for the installation.

Car window films are a very useful accessory, especially if you often travel to sunny locations with extreme temperature fluctuations. They have a good lifespan if properly installed on car windows.