Why isn't my window insulation film shrinking with heat from my blow dryer?

Question

I have cleaned my window and frame. I have applied the double sided tape and peeled off the top cover. I put the plastic on and pressed down all the sides. The window insulation plastic is not shrinking. Could it be that my blow dryer isn't hot enough?

Answer 1

My wife and I installed window film on our home for many years, using several brands. We never found the heat from a common hair dryer inadequate. Some possible reasons for your trouble:

• The film needs to be reasonably well fit to begin with. You'll have a hard time removing major slack without shrinking the entire sheet. If done well you really only need to shrink a small zone around a few sides. The tension then tightens the entire window, though you may need to touch up any loose spots.

• Your tape may be releasing. Ideally the tape is applied on plane with the film, or around an outside corner. If it's on an inside-facing surface it'll likely pull free.

• You simply aren't applying enough heat. As Armand suggested in a comment, do some experimenting on scrap. When you heat the film to a certain point it shrinks very quickly. It's obvious when that happens. If it's not happening, move closer. Always keep moving, but pass repeatedly over an area until it shrinks.

Answer 2

Make sure you buy the indoor variety. It's not always easy to tell the difference. Happened to me a month ago