Window Film is a “Complex” Business

Klingshield News
Johannesburg South Africa July 2011

How simple life would be in the window film business if there was only one window film to choose and use. Window film companies would only be required to carry stock of one film and install this film on every installation. However this is not reality as window films comes in a wide range of colours and densities.

Klingshield carries a range of about 140 films and each product has a different performance. To understand the technical side of window film is a study on its own and one needs much experience in this part of science to understand all aspects of specifications associated to window film.

 As far as the manufacturing processes are concerned, this requires engineers of the highest standard in film and plastic manufacturing to be able to understand the different ways of manufacturing window film.

Another interesting aspect of window film is the various adhesive systems utilised in the manufacture as well as the installation of window film. Adhesive manufacturers go to great lengths to ensure the longevity and performance of their products.

Dyeing films is another complicated process and can be done in various ways. Metallising of films is achieved by various methods e.g. vapour coating or sputter coatings.

Choosing the correct film to offer maximum benefit to the consumer is an in depth understanding and window film consultants need to be offay with the complete range of products.

Installation on various types of frames and glass also varies and each installation has to be dealt with on its merits. In some cases glass has been sitting in frames for decades and certain installation problems need to be taken into consideration when installing a retro fit window film on to second hand glass and filthy frames.

Contamination that settles under beading after years is very difficult to remove and hence when applying film, the water used in the] application draws the contamination under the film, creating a poor finish.

Uneven rubber beadings also creates problems when cutting as most window film installations require the edge of the frame as a guideline for cutting edges and when the edge is uneven or has a rubber beading that moves, it is difficult for installers to cut the edges straight, thus causing an uneven finish.

Scratches and chips on old glass are highlighted once the film has been applied.
Weather conditions also influence the application and drying out of window film and can sometimes play havoc during installation.

All the above points need to be taken into account by window film entrepreneurs when running a business. Window film owners need to educate their staff and train them in all aspects of the business to ensure they offer a professional honest service. If a consultant is not highly trained he could very easily recommend the incorrect film to solve the problem, hence causing unhappy customers as well as not offering the best solution for the problem.

Klingshield prides itself in the knowledge and experience it has after 40 years of installing and distributing window film day in and day out.

For more information on the window film business and its advantages and disadvantages please consult the articles page on our website for the maximum amount of reference available in the window film industry today.