A cracked pane, a scratched double-glazed unit, or hardened plaster left on window frames can eat into the project’s margin. The good news is that such damage is preventable with the right window protection.
Below are the common options and where each one works best.
Window Protection Film
Window protection film is a temporary self-adhesive film applied directly onto the glass surface, acting as a barrier. Instead of paint, dust or plaster sticking to the window, they land on the film.
STIXX Window Protector is one option for this type of work. It’s a low-tack film that protects glass from paint spills, plaster, dust, and dirt. It can be peeled away without leaving residue, and the glazing is left protected from damage.
For higher-risk work such as strip-out work, a demolition film is the most suitable choice. If debris or vibration causes the glass to break, its role is to contain the fragments and limit the safety risks caused by flying or falling shards.
Temporary Protection Boards
Protection boards are optional, but they can cushion the entire window opening and provide more rigidity than film alone.
Floorgard Corry Board, for example, shields the whole window from direct contact, rather than protecting only the glass. Its corrugated twin-wall design absorbs impacts and reduces the force transferred to the surface behind it.
Attach the board with low-tack tape to prevent it from shifting. Keep in mind that this temporarily blocks natural light, but it’s worth adding when there’s a higher risk of impact damage.
Edge Protection for Window Frames
Frames, corners, and windows are also vulnerable to damage. Common instances are during refurbishment, particularly when ladders, tools, and plasterboard are moved through finished areas.
For these areas, we recommend using edge guard – they act as a buffer against knocks without covering the entire window. This door jamb protector, in particular, is a hard-wearing, thick foam casing that also works on window frames. It can be cut to fit corners and fixed with tape.
If the frames have protruding edges, edge protection is another option. It fits over exposed edges and corners to protect them from damage. However, it’s more practical for windows that have been removed or are awaiting installation.
Dust Barriers Around Window Areas
Some refurbishment work creates large amounts of airborne dust. In these situations, temporary dust barriers work in contamination before it reaches completed glazing and surrounding finishes.
Examples include:
Sanding
Wall chasing
Ceiling removal
Concrete cutting
Partition demolition
The Dust-Lock Dust Barrier System, for instance, is used to build temporary containment zones by fixing poles and attaching dust screens to form a sealed work area. Refer to our guide on Dust Barrier Installation for indoor site containment.
Alternatively, you can simply opt for a polythene sheeting, taped around the window frame. It’s useful when solvents, paints, or renders are used in the area, and where splashes or overspray could occur.
Note: Dust barriers don’t replace window film, but they can reduce cleaning and help protect adjacent finished areas.
Common Window Protection Mistakes to Avoid During Refurbishment
Even good protection can fail when used the wrong way, such as the following:
Applying film to dirty or wet glass
Dust and moisture stop the adhesive from bonding, and the film lifts at the edges as a result. This then lets debris underneath, doing the exact damage it was meant to prevent.
Leaving film on too long (especially in direct sun)
This is one of the most common causes of adhesive residue, which may require solvents or scraping to remove. The extra cleaning required to remove the residue can also damage the glass.
Protecting the glass but forgetting the frame and corners
Frames and corners are also vulnerable to knocks from moving materials, ladders, and equipment during refurbishment, and any damage can leave visible marks on the finished window.
Windows are one of the easiest finished surfaces to damage during refurbishment, but they’re also one of the easiest to protect. Using temporary protection throughout refurbishment keeps glazing clean, reduces repair costs, and leaves windows ready for completion without unnecessary remedial work.
We supply the window protection products covered in this guide. For enquiries and fast quotes, email our team at customercare@s-pgroup.com or call 028 9411 0032. SP Group is a temporary protection and scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland.
FAQ
How long can window protection films stay on?
Most are rated for around 30 days but STIXX Window Protector can last up to 90 days. Overall, don’t leave the film past the manufacturer’s rated duration, especially in direct sunlight.
Will window protection film stop glass breaking?
No. Standard protection film mainly protects against surface damage such as paint, plaster and scratches. If there’s a risk of impact or demolition, use a demolition film instead.
Can construction dust damage windows?
Dust may not break glass, but it can settle on frames, seals, and surrounding finishes and create extra cleaning work. Fine particles from sanding, drilling, and plastering can be difficult to remove if left unprotected.