Best Window Films From Our Tests

Window film is applied to the inside of windows to block out some of the sun’s rays. This keeps your home cooler and, in turn, helps cut down on home cooling costs. According to the companies that manufacture some of these products, an additional benefit is that it minimizes the fading of your furniture. You don’t need many tools to install window film: just a spray bottle with water and a few drops of soap, a squeegee, and a scissor or box cutter. If you can cut in a straight line and have the patience to squeegee thoroughly, you’ll have neatly applied window film in just a few minutes. 

In our lab, I tried four popular window film products. I evaluated them based on several criteria, including transparency, scratch resistance, and durability. I also noted how easy each film was to install, how complete the instructions were, and how easy each one was to remove. For your first time installing film on a window, be prepared to go through more film than you really need until you get the hang of it. I learned a lot during my testing and have some tips to get the neatest application possible.