Home and business owners in Houston are jazzing up their decor with decorative window film. It’s also a practical choice to add privacy to kitchens and bathrooms. Another plus is that: it’s quick and easy to install, usually taking only an hour or two.

Conversely, you may want your window film removed one day. Also, if you move into a Houston space with old-fashioned decorative window film, it can be an eyesore.

Although you can remove it yourself, we professional window film installers strongly advise against it. It will most likely take you much longer than us professionals, and you might damage your window glass in the process.

Here are a few tips to help you remove your window film successfully if you choose to do it yourself.

Tools Needed for DIY Window Film Removal

The supplies you need to take off your window film depend on the type of film. You will use a razor blade, a water-filled spray bottle, and/or a hair dryer for static cling films.

To remove adhesive-backed films, especially older ones, you’ll also need an ammonia-based solution, a spray bottle, drop cloth, and either a razor blade or scraper.

How To Remove Static Cling Window Films 

Adhesive-free static cling window films are easy to remove–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 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 tough films. 
  4. Once the film is gone, wipe down the glass a final time and polish is free of any trace residue.

If you’re unsure how to remove window film, don’t hesitate to reach out! We would be more than happy to chat with you and answer any questions.

Mike Kinsey is the Operations Manager for the largest and most successful window tinting company in the Houston area. Mike has been cultivating his knowledge of window film products for over 15 years and is familiar with top brands such as LLumar, C-Bond, Solyx, and Vista as well as the latest trends and innovations in security, privacy, and energy efficient technology. Since he started working in the industry, he has overseen the installation of over 250,000 square feet of film for residential and commercial buildings of all types. His impressive portfolio and years of experience make him one of the top professionals in the field and are backed by official certifications from 3M, EnerLogic, and AIA for continuing education.