If you’ve made it here, chances are you’re interested in protecting your windshield. But maybe you’re not sure if it’s really worth it, or if it’s even made for your vehicle. In this blog post we’ll break down who needs windshield protection film (and who doesn’t!) and how to find the right one for you. 

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Whether you’re just learning about windshield protection film for the first time, or you’re still trying to make a decision about which one to buy, this post is for you! 

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Reasons to Get a Windshield Protection Film

• Replacing your windshield is expensive
• You want to keep your windshield looking like new 
• You wish your windshield was more hydrophobic 
• You’re looking for some added UV protection for your windshield
• Your commute to work and back is more than 30 minutes, and you drive on roads that have high risks of rocks and debris
• You drive in a city or town with bad roads and many road hazards
• Your windshield is rare or hard to find
• Your car has Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
• You drive a Jeep or a Bronco (or anything else with a near-vertical windshield) that sees frequent windshield damage.

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Things to Consider When Buying a Windshield Protection Film

Choosing the right windshield protection film isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. It’s an investment, after all. So even though you’ve completed the checklist and you’re on your way to seeing that this film is for you, we’d suggest you really drive this home and consider the following to finetune your decision and the way to move forward with a new windshield protection film.

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1. Consider cost when choosing the right film for your budget. Windshield film protection can vary in price depending on the quality of the film, the level of protection, and the size of your vehicle's windshield. While it is an investment, it is important to consider your budget and the value you place on protecting your windshield. Explore DIY options if they’re available, or contact a certified installer to get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle. 
2. Do you have time for maintenance? Some windshield protection films on the market require more maintenance, while others have longevity features built directly into the product. Check the manufacturer’s care and maintenance guidelines, or talk to a local installer to find out what required maintenance (if any) is needed. 
3. Consider repairing existing damage. If your windshield already has significant damage, such as large cracks or deep chips, applying windshield film protection may not effectively mask or repair these existing issues. If the damage is severe enough, you may not even be able to find someone to install it for you since you risk further damaging your windshield or your vehicle. We usually recommend getting any damage either repaired or replacing a severely damaged windshield before going ahead and getting it protected. 
4. Familiarize yourself with local laws. While some windshield protection films like ExoShield are completely transparent, watch out for windshield films that are tinted. Tinting your windshield is not road legal in many states and provinces, so make sure you’re making a choice that you’re comfortable with before spending the money to have it installed. Look for a VLT of 90% or higher which indicates that the film is not tinted. 

How To Get Windshield Protection

If you made it through that checklist thinking “this is me!” then it sounds like you should be protecting your windshield. 

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If that’s the case and you’re ready to pull the trigger, you have a couple of different options. 

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Option 1: DIY Windshield Protection Film Kits

Each kit comes with a piece of film that has already been cut and molded to fit the windshield and a set of tools you’ll need to install the kit yourself. The other good news is that ExoShield ULTRA kits use a thicker version of the standard windshield protection film, so you get added windshield protection with these kits on vehicles that need it most. Keep in mind; however, that this option is only available for select vehicles (specifically Jeeps or Broncos). 

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Option 2: Find a Certified Installer

Installing a premium windshield protection film without a pre-cut kit is truly an art! Certified installers are trained and experienced in shrinking (aka molding) and installing the film on virtually any windshield. ExoShield installers, for example, purchase the film in bulk and then cut and mold the film to fit your windshield perfectly. Installers will have worked closely with the product and have all the necessary tools and skills to do a great job.

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The choice to go DIY vs professional installer is really up to you. It really just comes down to how much you’re willing to invest (in either time OR money) and personal preference! Either way, enjoy that feeling of driving with true peace of mind.