Window Film Myths and Realities: What You Need to Know

Did you know that the first window films appeared in the 1960s? Back then, they were mainly designed to block sunlight… with one big drawback: these ultra-reflective and opaque films plunged rooms into semi-darkness. Not exactly ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere!
Today, fortunately, technology has made huge leaps forward.
But between marketing promises and real-world performance, how good are modern window films? Are they really as durable as claimed?
We’ve investigated to separate fact from fiction. Ready to discover the truth?

Common Myths About Window Films

Myth 1: Window Films Make Interiors Dark

It’s often said that window films darken indoor spaces... and that used to be true—back in the 1960s!
The first highly reflective solar films did indeed create a sense of gloom.
Today, however, technology has evolved tremendously.
Modern films can filter UV rays and heat while allowing natural light to pass through.
Take our Spectra 30 C for example: it allows 70% of visible light through while blocking 99% of UV rays.
In other words, your living room remains bright, without the drawbacks of sun exposure.
No more dark rooms—just light and protection!

Myth 2: Window Films Kill Indoor Plants

No, window films do not kill your plants!
It’s a common misconception, but don’t worry: a transparent film won’t harm your indoor greenery. Quite the opposite!
While filtering up to 99% of UV rays, modern films still allow about 80% of natural light to enter.
This means your plants continue to receive the light they need.
For certain sensitive species, films can even create a better environment by reducing direct sun intensity, lowering dehydration risks, and helping plants live longer.

More opaque films may sometimes cause temporary plant stress due to the sudden change in lighting conditions.
They usually adapt within a few days.
Tip: Check the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) rate of the film before installation and monitor your plants’ adjustment in the first days.

Myth 3: Window Films Are Only for Old Windows

Wrong!
Window films are not only for covering up old glass or blocking electromagnetic waves.
They actually boost the thermal insulation of your windows—sometimes as effectively as next-generation Low-E glazing.
More and more professionals use them to improve building energy efficiency and meet modern standards.

Take our MultiGlass 66 C, for example: it reflects 66% of solar energy, reducing overheating in summer, while still letting through 47% of natural light.
No "basement feeling" here—just comfortable brightness!

Myth 4: You Can’t Clean Windows After Installing a Film

False!
Windows with films can absolutely be cleaned, but with a few precautions.
Forget abrasive sponges and aggressive cleaners!
Use a microfiber cloth and a mild, ammonia-free, solvent-free cleaner.
Also, it’s essential to wait 2 to 3 weeks after installation before cleaning to let the film properly adhere and harden.

Myth 5: Window Films Cause Glass to Shatter

Window films do not directly cause glass to shatter.
However, excessive heat absorption, combined with factors like partial shading or proximity to blinds, can lead to accelerated window degradation.
Choosing the right film and ensuring professional installation helps minimize these risks.

The Reality About Window Films: What You Need to Know

Avoid Applying Film to Argon-Filled Double Glazing

Planning to install film on Argon-filled double-glazed windows?
Be cautious—it might do more harm than good.

Why?
Imagine a car parked under the sun with the windows closed: heat quickly builds up inside.
The same happens when applying film to Argon double glazing—the extra layer traps heat between the glass panes, leading to cracks, breakage, or accelerated seal degradation causing gas leakage.

Window Films Slow Down, But Don’t Fully Stop Fabric and Furniture Fading

Unfortunately, no film can guarantee complete protection against fading caused by sunlight.
However, some models slow down the process by blocking a large portion of UV rays and reducing the heat that accelerates material degradation.

Professional Installation Is Essential

Installing a window film yourself may seem simple, but mistakes are very common:

• Poor window preparation
• The film sticking to itself
• Inaccurate cutting
• Air bubbles, creases, or weak adhesion

These errors greatly reduce the film’s performance and lifespan.
Moreover, the ambient temperature during installation is a critical factor—often overlooked by DIYers.

The best solution?
Hire a professional.
An expert installer knows the proper techniques and has the right tools to ensure a flawless, long-lasting result.
This way, you avoid waste, frustration, and you enjoy the full benefits of your window film.
When it comes to protection and comfort, investing in quality from the start is the smart choice!