Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common installation problems?
The most common mistake is placing the tape on a frame that is too narrow. The tape supplied is 15 mm wide. Frames must provide a flat surface at least 15mm wide (30mm for large windows) in order to provide sufficient area for adhesion when the membrane is under tension after shrinking with the hair-dryer

Some enthusiasts neglected to adequately clean window frames which had acquired a greasy surface over the years. Others applied the tape directly to unpainted wooden frames, not realizing the timber had been treated with an oil or wax protective coating.
Frames painted long ago should be cleaned with a solvent such as methylated spirits. Oiled or waxed frames, and rough-sawn timber surfaces, must be sanded down to reveal fresh, smooth timber in a 'Dressed And Ready' condition before applying the double-sided tape.
See: Window frames treated with oil, wax, or in poor condition

How do I clean it?
The membrane is easily cleaned - just wipe over the surface using a soft cloth dipped in warm water only. Add a few drops of detergent to the water if the surface marks are greasy and then rinse off with clean water. DO NOT use chemical cleaners or abrasive cloths.

It looks like it is very thin - how easily is it damaged? What happens when you bump it? What about children poking it?
Yes, the membrane is very thin (25 microns) but very tough and tear-resistant. It will bounce back if poked, pushed, bashed - even if you break the glass behind it.
However, it can be damaged by slashing with a very sharp object such as a razor blade, and will melt if a naked flame is applied to it (however, it is not flammable).
See: How it works.

Can you come to my house to install it?
We are not able to visit your home to offer assistance. However, installation instructions are provided with the kit and are found on our web site. Unless you are dealing with specific types of window, such as sliding aluminium windows, it is a remarkably simple operation. If you have a problem, we can offer telephone support. For more information see Do it yourself.

What warranties do you provide?
ClearComfort is covered by normal guarantees, that is, that the product will do what we say it will do. Our products have served our customers well for more than a decade in Australia, and are guaranteed against deterioration. However because the installation is done by the customer, we cannot guarantee workmanship.

How much is noise reduced after installation of your product?
The ClearComfort system is highly effective in reducing heat transmission but does not provide sound insulation. See: How it works.

Is there ever any problem with condensation in the sealed air gap?
This can occur but is preventable.
To avoid condensation in the sealed air gap we recommend applying the membrane system when the air humidity is low. You should also check that there is no moisture trapped between the glass and the frame, that windows fit properly into the frames, that timber is well seasoned, and that any paintwork or silicon sealant is thoroughly cured.
If you discover condensation between the membrane and the glass, it can be removed by carefully lifting a small area of one corner of membrane to allow air movement. Wait for a day when the humidity is low, and then re-seal the membrane to the corner.

Is it suitable for sliding windows with older-style extruded aluminium frames?
Please see Aluminium windows on our Do it yourself page.

Do you have a showroom where I can see your product installed?
We sell by mail order so we do not have showrooms. This ensures the price of our product is as low as possible.
We have many photographs of our product on our website, showing windows with the intelligent insulation system already installed, and photographs of the simple installation steps being followed.
If you would like a sample of the membrane, just email us your street address and we will send out a sample.
See: Do it yourself.

Can it be used on the outside of a window?
Ideally you should place the membrane on the INSIDE frame of the existing window, however in a protected position (e.g. under the eave and perhaps behind an insect screen) it will perform almost as well as on the inside.

I'm no handyman. How difficult is it to install?
We assume that the person applying the product has basic household skills. For example, people who are competent in simple hobbies such as basic sewing or fixing simple things around the house should have no difficulty in applying the materials. Basic carpentry skills are required for some window types (e.g., sliding aluminium windows). Installation instructions are provided with the kit and are found on our Do it yourself page.

Can I remove it once it has been installed?
The tape is designed for permanent use. Removal requires solvents and/or abrasive materials.
If you intend to remove the installation you should use temporary tape, which is the double-sided tape typically supplied by hardware and stationery stores. The tape we supply is designed for permanent installation and is difficult to remove. We supply temporary tape in 30 metre rolls, but you must specify TEMPORARY TAPE in your order.
See: Prices, orders, contacts.

IF YOU HAVE A FURTHER QUESTION - please send us an email
info@clearcomfort.com.au