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Window film installation: What to look for in your installer

By August 5, 2022November 9th, 2023Installation Services & Programs, Window Film
Building with window film installer

Have you ever seen a video that shows you how to apply window film? It looks like a fairly simple process. However, there is a lot more to window film installation than meets the eye.

Factors such as the weather, what type of glass you have, as well as the product itself all play into when and how you should install window film. This is why you should take care in choosing a window film installer, particularly for a commercial building. That is a lot of window film, and you want to be sure the job is done properly. After all, it is an investment that you want to have a quick ROI on, as well as longevity from the installation itself.

All window film installations are not created equal. Moreover, just because an installer has applied window film to automobiles doesn’t mean they have the experience to install window film on commercial buildings or residential homes.

Window Film Installer Certification

3M is the global leader in window films and architectural finishes. This company is one of the few companies that manufactures all of the raw materials that go into their films and adhesives. This ensures the excellence of quality in their products. Yet, they take it one step further with their certification program.

A dealer must have at least three years of experience installing window film, validated business practices, and confirmed liability and insurance coverages to be considered for certification. Furthermore, they must be knowledgeable about the product, provide premier service and have high quality control standards. All of these requirements are required as part of 3M’s certification process.

Once potential installers have passed these tests then they begin the hands-on process of training and certification. Potential certified installers then participate in a 3M facilities site visit, vigorous training workshops, and testing. 3M window film installers are the preferred choice when it comes to applying window film.

Installing Window Film By Yourself

There are some 3M window films available for purchase and self-installation by the general public. However, only an Authorized 3M™ Window Film Dealer can purchase, install and warranty 3M’s high-end specialty films. For example, 3M™ Sun Control Prestige Series and 3M™ Sun Control Film Ceramic Series are premier window films that are only warrantied when installed by 3M certified contractors.

For this reason, particularly when applying window film to large commercial buildings, obtaining a certified installer of 3M window film is most wise. This experienced professional will help guide you through choosing the right window film for your business. Moreover, you will receive a full warranty on the material and project.

The Importance of Window Analysis

What type of window glass you have in place also impacts a window film installation. This weighs in as to which window film option is best for you. At NGS, we use a film-to-glass checklist that affords the client an analysis of best possible options for their building.

The orientation of your building to the sun, the location, as well as the shape of your building all weigh into what type of window film will best serve you. Interestingly enough, you may be better served using one type of film on the east side of your building and another on the west side. These are some of the many reasons it pays to use a certified installer for your commercial building.

3M Elite Dealer Status

Premier window film installation service also includes a reputable dealer. NGS has obtained elite dealer status. An elite dealer is one who is 3M authorized and has demonstrated the highest level of product knowledge, application process, and client service. There are several levels of 3M certification for dealers. The elite status is the top tier.

There are numerous dealers who hold these elite statuses, having been groomed by 3M. However, NGS has an attribute that other dealers do not. We add 2 additional years of extended warranty on top of the 3M product warranty. Thus, the client can rest assured of the best possible outcome for their window film application project.

To discover more about 3M products and the many options they offer watch our 15-minute product demonstration. This may help with any questions you currently have. If you would like for our sales team to help you get started in your pursuit of window film installation reach out today. We are in the business of bettering buildings and look forward to your call.

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Photo by Diane Picchiottino 

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