Best privacy and security window films

Window security film can delay intruders long enough for someone to spot them. A glass window that's difficult to break can be a strong deterrent because burglars don't like to stick around longer than necessary. Aside from helping prevent burglaries, window security films also protect against flying shards of glass.

While all security films improve safety by preventing flying glass shards from causing injuries, thicker films can boost security against burglars. The thicker the film, the longer it takes to break out of the window frame—8- and 12-mil films are the best choice for impact protection.

Most window security films use a strong adhesive to stick to your windows with smaller pieces easier to install in general.

Steps to install window security film:

1. Measure and cut the film to fit your window or glass door. Cut slightly larger than your window so that you can trim the exact edges after installation.
2. Clean the window. It's also a good idea to dust things nearby to keep particles off the adhesive surface.
3. Remove the backing that protects the adhesive. Be careful not to touch the adhesive.
4. Spray the adhesive surface with soapy water.
5. Place the adhesive surface on the glass and align it with how you want it.
6. Use a squeegee to remove the water and air bubbles—work from the centre to outside and top to bottom. Make sure to hold the film in place until it doesn't move on its own.
7. After applying the film to the whole surface, use a sharp utility knife to trim off the excess window film. For ultra-straight edges, we recommend using a ruler or other straight-edged tool to keep the knife edge as close to the window frame as possible.

People  use both types of window film for security, but they work differently:

Security window film physically reinforces glass panes to keep any glass fragments from falling to the floor from a broken window. Some security film also has tinting for added privacy and graffiti protection. These films stick to windows using an adhesive.

Privacy window film changes the appearance of glass surfaces to prevent people from looking inside your home. It usually relies on static cling to stay on a window, though there are options that use an adhesive.

Like security window film, laminated glass is another way to prevent windows from shattering. It puts the film between two glass layers. This type of glass comes specially manufactured from a factory and is most common in car windshields, though you can find it in all kinds of buildings.