Pressure Sensitive VS Dry Adhesive

At Flexfilm, we often get questions about the adhesives used in window films. Whether it’s for automotive or architectural (flat glass) applications, the goal of any adhesive is simple: stick to the glass. But how they do it—and where they work best—makes all the difference.

Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive (PSA)

You’re probably more familiar with this type. PSA is sticky, like tape or fly paper, and bonds quickly when pressure is applied. That fast bond makes it ideal for automotive films, where the film needs to stick immediately, especially over curved glass, defroster lines, or dot matrix areas. After shrinking and installing the film, you need the adhesive to hold strong right away—no waiting.

Dry Adhesive (DA)

Dry adhesives, often found on flat glass films, feel totally different. There’s no initial stickiness when you touch them. Instead, the adhesive bonds through a slower chemical process after installation. This works great for flat glass because you don’t need to shrink or mold the film with heat like you would for cars. Plus, dry adhesives are far more forgiving:

• If you get contamination, you can pull the film back, spray it out, and try again.
• Techniques like the reverse roll method make installing large pieces of film a breeze—even with just one person.

Why Not Use PSA Everywhere?

Some installers prefer pressure-sensitive adhesives on flat glass, and they can work. However, the advantages of dry adhesives—like their flexibility during installation—make them a go-to choice for many professionals. And thanks to new technology, today’s dry adhesives bond stronger and are easier to remove or replace than ever before.

Both adhesives get the job done, but knowing their differences will help you choose the right one for the job. Whether you’re working on curved auto glass or large flat windows, there’s an adhesive that makes the process smooth and simple.