Fitting and Cleaning

Perforated Film

Fitting Instructions

Contra Vision® Privacy Window Films™ offer a trouble-free installation, as shown by this video.

Our installation guides for perforated window films (inside and outside application) provide all the necessary information about how to apply Contra Vision Privacy Window Films.

We do not recommend cleaning Contra Vision perforated window films within 24 hours after application. To keep your Contra Vision Privacy Window Film clean and looking its best, follow our cleaning instructions.

Removing Contra Vision Privacy Window Films is usually a very easy process. Have a look at our video tutorial to learn how to remove Contra Vision.

Cleaning Instructions

Due to the nature of perforated self-adhesive films, over time, dirt can accumulate in the holes. This can block and spoil the see-through vision effect.

It is important to note that we do not recommend cleaning Contra Vision® perforated window films within 24 hours after application. To keep your Contra Vision perforated window film clean and looking its best, follow this cleaning method:

Cleaning guidance for perforated window films

  • Mix a solution of mild soap and sufficient water to produce plenty of suds.
  • Apply the solution to the face of the applied film using a cloth or a sponge taking care when cleaning the edges and corner as all adhesive window films more vulnerable to damage in these areas if not edge sealed. Use sufficient solution to soften and wash out debris from the holes. Particularly stubborn blockages can be removed with a soft bristled brush.
  • Gently wipe the perforated film wetted surface to remove settled dirt. Be careful not to scratch the ink layer if printed and only use very light pressure to avoid smearing any adhesive that may be present around the edges of the perorations.
  • When you’re satisfied that the dirt in the holes is softened, wash off the soap solution with plenty of clean, soap-free water, again using the soft bristled brush to ensure that softened dirt and soap is removed from the holes.
  • You can carefully blot the rinsed film to remove excess water or use a soft rubber bladed squeegee – excess water remaining in the perforations will evaporate or you can carefully use a Vacuum Squeegee. We suggest a Karcher WV5, or similar which is widely available from DIY outlets and depots.

General Information and precautions

Take care if you are working at height. Refer to relevant health and safety measures. Wear suitable personal protection measures such as safety glasses and gloves.

Do not use solvents or solvent based preparations such as alcohols and ammonia. Avoid any abrasive cleaning materials to tools. Dispose of packaging considerately and check local statutes regarding the use of cleaning materials and disposal of contaminated water.

Incorrect cleaning may lead to premature failure of the applied material.

Non-Perforated Film

Fitting Instructions

Contra Vision Non-Perforated Privacy Window Films including Frosted, Mirror and Reeded offer a trouble-free installation if you follow a few basic rules.

Preparation

  1. Clean the glass with mild soapy water* removing any dust, paint specs, grease or other contaminants.
  2. Complete a second cleaning if necessary and then rinse off with water only
  3. Thoroughly dry the surface before application
  4. Apply the film in temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 30°C (90°F)
  5. Cut the film to the window size. Allow 20mm of excess material on all edges which can be trimmed later
  6. Use a spray bottle to apply a covering of water mixed with 2 drops of dish washing detergent
  7. Place your film on a flat surface. Carefully peel off the backing film. The film is very thin and care must be taken not to crease. Stick some tape on either side of a corner and peel the tape apart to start the process
  8. Spray the exposed (adhesive) surface of the film with the water/detergent. Lightly spray your hands to stop the film sticking to them

Application

  1. Carefully pick up the film and slide into position on your glass. Keep the film smooth. It will continue to move, providing the glass is wet. Reapply water if necessary
  2. Spray the film surface with application fluid, which will wash any dust that might scratch the surface and will help to avoid scratching the surface with the squeegee

Remove air bubbles and trim

  1. Use the plastic squeegee provided** smooth out the film, handling the material with care. Begin from the centre and work outwards in all directions. Ensure that no bubbles are trapped, especially at the edges
  2. As a last resort, remove any stubborn bubbles by gently popping them with a pin and rubbing
  3. Wipe away excess water. There may be some water marks left on the film, however this will dry/ evaporate over time
  4. To trim: Position the blade on the edge of the squeegee. Run the squeegee and the blade around the edges of the frame. Leave a 1-2mm gap around the edges to ensure reliable edge adhesion

Cleaning Instructions

Installed window films, whether inside or out, require periodic cleaning and this can be achieved with the same equipment, techniques and cleaning solutions that are used for glass with a little additional care. Avoid using abrasive cleaning products and aggressive solvents or ammonia-based preparations that could cause scratches or other damage, and use clean soft cloths, very soft brushes and silicone-edged squeegees.

  1. Using plenty of water and a gentle, soap-based cleaning agent, work up suds which will loosen and lift dirt deposits.
  2. Flush and gently squeegee away the excess liquid leaving a substantially dry and clean surface behind.
  3. Pay particular attention to framed edges, especially at the bottom, where soapy solution could accumulate and make sure this liquid is removed by blotting with an absorbing cloth or tissue.

The frequency of any cleaning needed is dictated by environmental factors. Applied films that face an exterior environment with lots of vehicles passing will of course accumulate more dirt and debris than films exposed to a traffic-free environment. In all cases, it’s preferable to clean at sensible intervals rather than wait until substantial amounts of dirt have accumulated.

Observe all sensible precautions when cleaning particularly when working at height. Dispose of cleaning materials responsibly and reuse where possible.

It is important to note that we do not recommend cleaning Contra Vision® window films within 10 days after application, to allow the window film to fully adhere and cure.

* Do not use window cleaning spray, as it can damage the film!
** Squeegee not included with samples