Have you ever felt like your home is hotter than most? Do you ever find that it’s difficult to concentrate at work because your office is warm and uncomfortable? Chances are, you have an energy efficiency problem on your hands.
Many factors can contribute to a lack of energy efficiency. But windows play the largest role by far. Poorly insulated windows are like magnets for heat. The glass warms up quickly and there’s nothing to stop all of that heat from transferring indoors. This increases energy costs, causes discomfort, and can be damaging to human health and objects.
Window films are one of the best ways to upgrade the energy efficiency of windows without replacing them. By adding a solar control film to the inside or outside of your windows, you can stop unwanted heat from getting into your home or office. Here’s how it works.
Everything You Need to Know About Window Film
Architectural window film is different than car tint. Instead of being applied to a car windshield, these films are applied to windows belonging to homes and commercial buildings. They look very similar manner to car tint, minus the dark dye, and function in many of the same ways. Property owners install window film for many different reasons. The most common are solar control, security, and aesthetics.
What Is Window Tint Made Of?
Window “tint” or films are made of a special type of material called PET, heat blocking substances, and a hard outer coating. PET is one of the most commonly used forms of polyester. It’s lightweight, cheap to manufacture, and durable. The hard coating protects the film from being scratched. Different films use different types of heat blocking technology. Cheaper films rely on dye alone to control light and heat. Better films are made from materials that absorb and reflect heat, such as ceramic, silver, gold, and other types of metal.
How Does Window Film Block Heat?
Window film works by interacting with three different types of light frequencies: visible light, infrared rays, and ultraviolet rays (UV).
How It Changes Indoor Climates
Many people report feeling an immediate difference in the temperature of a room after window film has been installed. The film starts working right away as soon as it fully dries and cures. Because it blocks infrared rays and not visible light, it keeps heat out without diminishing the brightness of a room. Thermostats sense that the temperature is cooler, which keeps the air conditioning from switching on for long periods of time. This conserves electricity, thus saving money over time.
Some people worry that window film will make their home or office dark inside or change the color of their windows. But this is really not something to be concerned about. Many windows films made these days are actually totally clear. Heat stays out, but nothing else changes.
Where to Get Window Film
Window film can be ordered from any local window tinting contractor, purchased online, or bought in a store. However, it is tricky to install, so most people prefer to have a professional do it. Most installers offer a free consultation so that building owners can see the different options available to them and get an idea of the cost.
Get More Information
Installing window film is a great way to control heat and light in any property. For more information on how window tint works, please contact our office.