Does Window Film Stop Condensation?
Does Window Film Stop Condensation?
No. Window film will not prevent condensation on your windows. Because condensation is caused by air moisture and temperature differences between the glass and your rooms, better solutions include lowering humidity, installing weather-stripping, and others.
Window film does not stop condensation completely, but can still be an effective form of insulation for your home. The proper installation of the window tint will help prevent condensation from forming on your windows, as well as decrease your cooling costs throughout the summer months.
Condensation in windows refers to a layer of moisture that is trapped between the glass panes. This moisture can be caused by cold air coming in contact with warm air, or from leakage between the panes.
If you are able to see the condensation, it will typically appear in streaks or droplets and can range from a lighter fog to opaque white patches. If you have condensation on your windows, there are a couple of things that you can try out to lessen its impact on your home:
The first step is to check your windows and seals for any defects that may have been causing your home to lose cooling efficiency. Check for leaking windows and replace any fitting parts if necessary. If your windows are bowed, then you will want to replace them with more efficient models. These seals should be removed and cleaned with soap and water (or replaced) for better efficiency.
To reduce indoor humidity levels, quit opening windows when it is raining or during storms. This will also help insulate your home from the wind chill. Another option is investing in a dehumidifier that can help reduce moisture levels in your home; this is especially helpful during the summer months when you want to keep condensation at bay.
Why Is My Window Film Cloudy?
As the window cures, the water beneath the new window film evaporates through the material. That means the hazy appearance of your film is caused by water vapor, and there is nothing to be concerned about.
Also, as it cures, the film will tighten up – causing a gap to appear around the edges – and will eventually become transparent. To ensure that your window film is not cloudy, you can clean it with a damp cloth and wipe the water into a container.
This can be done after the window film has cooled, but before you readjust any of the film’s surrounding surfaces. Window film may appear cloudy right after it’s installed. However, this is not permanent. It can be prevented with a good quality water-based or silicone-based squeegee.
This will depend on the quality of the squeegee you are using. If the squeegee is not of good quality, then the water vapor will stay trapped within the film, causing it to bubble and form small holes called pinholes.
After the window film has cooled, you can detach the film from your windows and apply pressure to the surface to remove any air bubbles. This will make it more transparent. When you are finished, you can move on to re-adjusting all of the surrounding surfaces of your window film.
If you have small pinholes in your window film, then you can repair them with a high-quality repair kit. This will help you keep your window film looking nice and new for years to come.
Remember, it is normal for the window film to appear hazy in the first few days after installation while the water vapor is evaporating. It may take up to 10–15 days before your window film appears clear again.
