Windscreen Films? We’ll concentrate on Paint Protection Film
On occasion, as Xpel PPF Installers based in Hampshire, we are asked to install windscreen films. But this is not a product that Xpel makes.
We have been experimenting with STEK Dynoflex, a windscreen protection film that installs like regular paint protection film. At the moment, it is unique in this respect. Other films in this sector are installed the same way as window tint (which needs heating and shrinking to conform to the curvature of the glass). This is not something we do at Auto Curators in Hampshire.
Before we move on to why we don’t install windscreen films, we thought we’d also answer some of the questions people often ask us about these films.
Q: Can windscreen films affect a driver’s visibility?
In short, it shouldn’t, and this is essential.
However, the current films aren’t robust in our climate, where rain is common. Because wiper use is frequent, the film often suffers from scratching by the wipers. This would be much less of an issue in drier climates like California.
Are windscreen films legal in the UK?
Transparent films are legal, provided they do not limit vision through distortion or reduction in light transmission.
Can the installation of windscreen film affect a vehicle’s warranty and insurance?
As always, any change in how the manufacturer supplies your car should be declared and discussed with your insurer. This also applies to the warranty. While it shouldn’t affect vehicle operation and is a temporary addition, we cannot guarantee it won’t affect your warranty.
Windscreen Films – Why we don’t install them…
At the moment, I’m not happy that the current generation of films is a good enough solution.
STEK Dynoflex had so many inconsistent production issues that they have pulled it from the market until they can solve the problems. A lack of clarity or optical distortions in the film covering a windscreen are unacceptable issues that must be rectified.
Windscreen films have a relatively short lifespan. The recommendation is to change them every 12 months. And at circa £500 a go, that gets quite expensive.
For a car with a particularly complicated and expensive screen (which applies to most things these days, given the number of cameras and sensors within the screen area, but I’m talking mainly about supercars with complex screens and installation issues), the film might be a good temporary solution whilst on a driving tour or a track day. On these occasions, the risk of a stone being thrown at the glass at high speed is much higher. But apart from that, I don’t think the current generation of films is good enough for long-term, day-to-day use.
Sadly, if a client wants to protect their windscreen, at the moment, I don’t think there is a satisfactory solution available. But I’m hopeful that will change very shortly. In the meantime, we recommend drivers remain vigilant about keeping their distance from the car in front!
We focus on Paint Protection Film
At our detailing studio in Hampshire, we do specialise in paint protection film installation. Find out more about how we can help HERE.
