Installing Pressure Sensitive VS Dry Adhesive

At Flexfilm, we often get asked about the difference between pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and dry adhesive (DA) in window films. So, in this post, I’m breaking it down and showing you that, while they work differently, both adhesives install easily—just with a few key differences.

Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive (PSA)

PSA is the sticky, tacky adhesive you’re probably familiar with—like tape. It bonds quickly under pressure, which is why it’s ideal for automotive window films. When you install it:

• You’ll want two wet surfaces (glass and film) to slow the initial stick and allow you time to position the film.
• Once you squeegee out the water and apply pressure, the adhesive bonds right away—perfect for curved glass, defroster lines, or roll-down windows where immediate hold is critical.

Dry Adhesive

Dry adhesive, commonly used for flat glass films, is completely different. There’s no stickiness when you touch it, thanks to a special top coat. Instead, it relies on a chemical bonding process that activates after installation and cures over time. A few key benefits:

• It’s more forgiving during install. If you get contamination, you can lift the film, spray it out, and try again.
• It doesn’t “grab” aggressively right away, which is great for large, flat windows where you need control during placement.

My Final Thoughts

Both adhesives get the job done, but they’re designed for specific uses. Pressure-sensitive adhesives are all about instant bond and strength—perfect for cars. Dry adhesives take a slower approach, offering flexibility and precision for flat glass. At the end of the day, they both install easily, as long as you understand how each one works.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments, and we’ll help you figure out the best adhesive for your next project!