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To remove 3M Window Film, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the necessary materials: a steamer or heat gun, a scraper or razor blade, a spray bottle with soapy water, and a cloth or sponge.
2. Start by heating the window film with the steamer or heat gun. This will soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove.
3. Once the film is heated, use the scraper or razor blade to gently lift the film from one corner. Be careful not to scratch the glass.
4. Spray the exposed adhesive with the soapy water to help loosen it. Allow the water to soak in for a few minutes.
5. Use the scraper or razor blade to slowly peel off the film, applying more soapy water as needed. Work in small sections to prevent the adhesive from reattaching.
6. After removing the film, clean the window thoroughly with the cloth or sponge and soapy water to remove any remaining adhesive or residue.
7. Finally, wipe the window dry with a clean cloth.
By following these steps, you can successfully remove 3M Window Film from your windows.
You may not pay much attention to it until you decide to make a change and need to learn how to remove your 3M window film. It’s possible that the previous homeowner chose decorative or tinted window films that you simply can’t stand. Maybe you had the film installed and then regretted your decision, or perhaps the film has been damaged and needs to be replaced. Regardless of the situation, it’s a good idea to follow the removal instructions provided by 3M itself — the company that introduced films to our windowed world over 50 years ago.
What is the Purpose of Window Film?
Adhesive-backed, polyester-laminate residential window films that are installed on the inside of your windows have a scratch-resistant surface and are designed to enhance the performance of your window glass. They reduce the sun’s heat by 78 percent, block up to 99 percent of ultraviolet rays, minimize glare in rooms where you rest and work, help protect your furniture from sun damage, and decrease your energy costs by 30 percent.
Different Types of 3M Window Films
3M window films are not available for purchase in retail stores for DIY projects. They must be professionally installed, and for the original homeowner, they come with a lifetime warranty against crazing, cracking, bubbling, and delaminating.
There are four categories of 3M window film products. Sun Control Window Films promote energy efficiency by keeping things cool. Low-E Window Films enhance window insulation. 3M Safety & Security Window Films protect against shattered glass, and 3M Decorative Films allow you to create unique window treatments for both aesthetics and privacy.
Advice From 3M
The 3M company strongly advises homeowners to contact the original installer if possible when they decide to remove 3M window film. If the original installer is no longer in business or cannot be identified, call 3M at 866-499-8857 and select option three for assistance. However, 3M also provides instructions for self-removal, acknowledging the DIY homeowner.
How To Remove the Film Without Soaking
If the film cooperates with this first removal method, your 3M window film removal project will be quick and easy.
- Peel or lift the film at one corner.
- Start pulling the film off the window at a 90-degree angle, applying more force if necessary depending on the age, condition, or type of film.
- If this method is unsuccessful, move on to the next method.
How To Remove the Film by Soaking
This method requires a bit more effort and involves preparing the 3M window film for easier removal by softening the adhesive backing. Simply pulling the film off is straightforward, but if you prefer, you can begin with this method.
- Prepare a solution by mixing 1 part ammonia with 3 parts water in a spray bottle.
- Moisten sheets of newspaper or paper towels with the ammonia and water solution. Apply them directly to the film. The sheets should be damp enough to stick to the film without being overly wet.
- Cover the film with a plastic bag or sheet.
- Allow the film to soak for 30 minutes to one hour.
- Remove the covering and the damp paper towels or newspaper.
- Starting from a corner, peel off the film at a 90-degree angle.
- Spray the remaining adhesive on the glass with the ammonia and water solution.
- Using a 4-inch T-shaped razor blade tool, gently scrape off the softened adhesive from the glass. Ensure that the blade used is made of stainless steel to avoid scratching the glass.
- Use paper towels to clean off the scraped adhesive and to carefully wipe the blade.
