Automotive Frequently Asked Questions

Adhesive Films: Yes, there is a clear liner on the back of the film to protect the adhesive from contamination prior to installation. Remove the liner by attaching two 3"" long pieces of transparent tape to the front and back surfaces of a corner of the film so that about 1"" of tape is on the film, and the rest is centered and hanging over the pointed corner of the film. Press the two pieces of tape together and quickly pull them apart to separate the clear liner away from the (dry) adhesive side of the film. Refer to our installation instruction guides for complete step-by-step instructions.

Static Cling Films: Yes, there is a paper liner on the back of the film. Simply pull the paper liner from the film and discard during application.

If the automotive Gila Window Films contain adhesives, do not apply to plastic, Plexiglas, polycarbonate surfaces, or automotive windows.

However, we offer adhesive-free vinyl Gila Static Cling Automotive Window Films that can be applied to plastic, with careful attention to instructions and trimming.

Water bubbles are pockets of water trapped under the film during an installation. Most small water bubbles will dry out in a few days. Air bubbles are pockets of air trapped under the film during an installation. Unfortunately, air bubbles will not disappear without proper squeegee methods.

See FAQ: How do I remove trapped air bubbles

If an air bubble under the film is detected immediately after installation, simply re-spray the film and use the squeegee or towel wrapped squeegee-card to push the water toward the nearest edge. If the bubble remains, it may be necessary to carefully lift the nearest edge of the film, re-spray the adhesive and the glass thoroughly, then re-squeegee that region of the film. Before lifting the film, be sure the film edges have been properly trimmed and the borders of the window have been dried with a hard card wrapped in a paper towel to absorb the perimeter gasket moisture. Dry the border first to prevent liquid from flowing back under the film.

If an air bubble under the film is detected after the film has bonded to the glass, removal of the film may be required. Gila Window Films with adhesive cannot be re-installed, however our static-cling products can be re-applied.

Most new cars and vans have compound curved windows (glass that is curved not only from top to bottom but side to side). Usually, only the rear window is affected, but some vehicles have compound curved glass in the back side locations as well. Applying window film to compound curved windows-which bow in two directions-requires cutting a sheet of film into strips, because one piece of film cannot stretch to cover a compound curved surface. Check out our videos to see the entire installation process.

Gila Automotive Window Tint is to be installed on the inside surface of your window. You may notice in our installation videos that we recommend using the outside surface of the window to trim the film, but you will apply the film to the interior side of the window.

Gila products are available in store and online. Find a retailer near you. Product selection and stock vary by retailer.

Gila offers a 30” wide roll for larger trucks and SUVs in a 20% VLT. We offer each of our automotive films in a 24" width as that width will cover most automotive windows with the least amount of waste. We recommend measuring the width of each window determine the best size for your application.

Do not apply Gila automotive window films on residential or commercial windows as glass breakage can occur. Gila Window Films has a full lineup of window film specifically designed for residential and commercial use.

Most states permit some tinted windows. Laws differ from state to state regarding window tint light transmission and reflectance percentages. BEFORE installing ANY window film on ANY vehicle, check with your state police and comply with applicable tint laws. The manufacturer and retailer assume no responsibility for the misuse, illegal or improper application of window film.

Review your state’s tint laws here.

VLT is short for Visible Light Transmitted or Visible Light Transmission. This is the common specification with window film for how dark the film is. The lower this number, the darker the film is.

Each Gila Window Film product is backed by a manufacturer's limited warranty. Please click here for more information.