Window Film Care
& Maintenance Guide
Follow these simple guidelines to keep your Sungate window film looking great and performing at its best for years to come.
Step 1
Before Your Installation
A little preparation goes a long way. Here's how to get ready for your Sungate installation day.
Pre-Installation Inspection
Prior to installation, you and your Sungate installer will inspect all windows together. We'll note any existing issues — cracked glass, loose panes, or imperfections in the glass or framing — and document any alarm system components or decals that may affect the installation.
Decorations & Window Treatments
Clear all items — plants, decorative objects, and personal belongings — from window sills and the surrounding area. In some cases, window treatments such as blinds or curtains may need to be temporarily removed. Discuss this with us prior to your installation appointment.
Furniture & Workspace
Ensure any furniture that may obstruct access to the windows is temporarily relocated. Our installers need at least four feet of clear, unobstructed workspace in front of each window. If you need help moving furniture on the day of installation, let us know in advance.
Step 2
Window Film Curing Time
Your Sungate installer uses a specially formulated mounting solution to apply your window film. While most of the solution is removed during installation, a small amount remains between the film and the glass until the film fully cures.
This residual moisture may cause small water bubbles or a slightly cloudy appearance — this is completely normal and temporary. Once fully cured, your film will be perfectly clear and smooth.
Typical Curing Times
Varies by film type and weather conditions
Solar Control Film
Faster in warm, sunny weather
Privacy Film
May appear slightly hazy initially
Decorative Film
Typically cures quickly
Safety & Security Film
Up to 6 months in cold/cloudy conditions
Step 3
Cleaning Your Window Film
Proper cleaning keeps your film looking crystal clear and extends its lifespan. Follow these simple do's and don'ts.
Do's
- Wait at least 30 days after installation before cleaning your film for the first time.
- For best results, use a new or very clean microfiber cloth — it's the gentlest and most effective tool for cleaning window film.
- We recommend Spray Away glass cleaner — it's safe for window film and leaves a streak-free finish.
- Spray cleaner directly onto the glass surface, then wipe with your microfiber cloth using left-to-right sweeping motions.
- Run the cloth along the window edges to remove excess moisture and debris.
- A rubber window squeegee also works well as an alternative to a cloth.
Don'ts
- Do not clean the film within the first 30 days after installation.
- Avoid cleaners containing abrasive materials such as baking soda.
- Never use bristle brushes or abrasive scrubbing sponges.
- Avoid coarse paper towel brands — they can cause fine scratches that dull the film over time.
- Do not use razor blades or sharp objects near the film surface.
- Avoid ammonia-based cleaners on tinted films.
Quick Reference Summary
Before Installation
- Inspect windows together
- Clear window sills
- Remove window treatments if needed
- 4ft clear workspace required
After Installation
- Expect temporary haze or bubbles
- Do not puncture bubbles
- Wait 30 days before first clean
- Contact us with any concerns
Cleaning — Use
- Soft cloth or paper towel
- Rubber squeegee
- Household glass cleaner
- Plain soapy water
Cleaning — Avoid
- Abrasive cleaners or sponges
- Bristle brushes
- Baking soda-based products
- Coarse paper towels
Questions About Your Film?
We're always here to help. If you have any concerns about your window film — curing, cleaning, or anything else — don't hesitate to reach out.