Install Solar Gard® Clearshield® WPF

Method: wet application

Forming: no traditional heat forming

Film: WPF 15, 40, 70 and Clear

UV protection: >99% in all four films

Installation: at least +18°C

Work indoors: Choose a clean, sheltered and well-lit location away from direct sunlight, rain and dust.

At least +18°C: Installation is not recommended below +18°C. The window, film and installation solution should be at a stable working temperature. Also avoid a window heated by direct sun.

Plan the work: A large windshield or bus window is easiest to install with two people. Check the film's orientation and size and identify both protective films before removing either one.

1. Upper protective film

Temporary protection on the top surface of the WPF film. Remove this first.

2. Permanent topcoat

Durable topcoat with self-healing properties. This is part of the WPF film and must face outward.

3. TPU layer

Flexible layer, approximately 150 µm. The tinted versions provide solar protection, and all four WPF films provide more than 99% UV protection.

4. Optically clear adhesive

Specially developed adhesive, approximately 20 µm, which must face the window.

5. Protective liner on the adhesive side

Protects the adhesive side. Remove it after the upper protective film and immediately before applying the adhesive side to the glass.

STEP 1

Inspect the window and select the correct WPF

Check that the glass or plastic window is intact, clean and compatible with the film. Select the film for the desired tint and application:

85% tint: WPF 15 – 15% visible light transmission

60% tint: WPF 40 – 40% visible light transmission

30% tint: WPF 70 – 70% visible light transmission

Transparent: WPF Clear for maximum clarity

The three tinted versions provide solar protection. WPF 15, WPF 40, WPF 70 and WPF Clear all provide more than 99% UV protection.

Check all applicable regulations before installing film on a windshield or any window within the driver's field of vision.

STEP 2

Clear the work area

Remove the wiper arms and any other components that obstruct installation if necessary. Protect paintwork, plastic trim and openings around the window with clean cloths or masking. Make sure the film can cover the entire surface without contacting dirty components.

STEP 3

Clean the window very thoroughly

Rinse away sand and coarse dirt with clean water. Clean the entire window and the edges around seals and rubber trim. Use a non-scratch cleaning pad and finish with a lint-free wipe.

Plastic windows: Never use a razor blade, metal scraper or aggressive chemicals on polycarbonate, PMMA or other plastics. They can cause permanent scratches or damage.

STEP 4

Measure and rough-cut the film

Measure the window and cut a piece of film with sufficient margin around the entire surface. Check which side carries the liner and how the film must be oriented before continuing.

Cutting safety: Use very light pressure when cutting and avoid cutting directly against delicate glass, paintwork or plastic. Use a safety cutting tool whenever possible.

STEP 5

First remove the protective film from the top surface

Identify the temporary protective film on the top surface of the WPF film and remove it completely. The permanent, durable topcoat underneath must remain in place. Always remove the upper protective film before releasing the protective liner on the adhesive side.

STEP 6

Expose the adhesive side and position the film on the outside

Spray the window generously with FilmApp installation solution. Then remove the second protective film – the liner covering the adhesive on the back – while continuously spraying the adhesive side.

Place the wet adhesive side against the outside of the window and align the film. Never allow the exposed adhesive to dry out or contact clothing, the floor or dirty surfaces.

STEP 7

Create an anchor point in the centre

Also spray the outside of the film so that the squeegee glides without scratching. Anchor the film with a firm stroke in the centre. Then work methodically from the centre toward the edges using overlapping strokes.

STEP 8

Follow the curve without heat forming

On a curved window, lift the film back to a flat area, spray again if needed and distribute the tension with a light, even stretch. Secure short sections at a time. Do not force down a crease or overstretch the film.

STEP 9

Trim neatly around the edges

Once the film is stable, trim away the excess with a sharp, clean tool. Leave an even and sufficient edge clearance so the film is not placed under tension against the bodywork, seals or other moving parts.

STEP 10

Final squeegee and inspection

Push out the remaining installation solution with firm, overlapping strokes from the centre toward the nearest edge. Dry the edges and inspect under raking light to ensure that no dry areas, creases, dirt particles or fluid pockets have been missed.

1. Clean beneath the seals

Dirt between the window, film and seal acts as an abrasive and can quickly damage the topcoat.

2. Insert the film edge

Make sure the film lies beneath the seal without folding, pinching or unnecessary tension.

3. Operate the window carefully

Do not operate the window before the film has bonded. Keep the glass and seals clean after installation as well.

The film slides too much

Create a clear anchor point in the centre and use firm squeegee strokes. Check that the installation solution has been mixed according to the supplier's instructions.

Creases or fingers at the edge

Lift the film back to a flat area, wet it again and distribute the tension over a larger area. Secure shorter sections at a time. Do not press down a sharp crease.

Dirt beneath the film

If the film is still wet, the area can be lifted and flushed clean with installation solution. Never pick at or puncture a moisture bubble after installation.

Haze after installation

Slight cloudiness can be normal and may be caused by installation moisture. It usually clears within a few days, depending on weather and temperature.

The edge lifts

Check cleanliness, ensure the fluid has been thoroughly expelled and make sure the film is not overstretched or resting against a seal. Work the edge before the film has dried.

Squeegee marks

Keep the outside of the film wet, use a clean squeegee with an undamaged edge and remove any sand immediately. Do not expect deep scratches to disappear despite the topcoat's self-healing properties.