Removing Old Window Film – On the House
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Removing Old Window Film

By on May 20, 2014
remove window film with ammonia

Question

About 15 years ago, the previous owners of my home had all the windows tinted with window film. The window tinting company tells me that it will cost as much to remove the old as it will to do the replacement. Help!

Barbara

Answer

We think that window film is great stuff. It can help to make your home more energy-efficient. Even the safest safety glass is safer with a layer of mylar on the inside, and window film also cuts down on sun-bleached carpets and drapes. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last forever.
You can, however, remove it yourself. And all it takes is an old spray bottle, a bottle of household ammonia, a roll of plastic food wrap and a putty knife. Put the straight ammonia into the spray bottle, spray it onto the window film and immediately cover the ammonia-wet area with a layer of plastic wrap. After 45 minutes, use a broad-bladed putty knife to remove the film. Make sure that the area is well ventilated and don’t forget to use eye protection.
Don’t attempt the project on a real hot day. If the ammonia evaporates the technique won’t work.

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