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Nov 18
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Tinting Luxury Car Windows - 3 Tips From The Intelligent Driver - Automotive Window Tinting in Springfield, Missouri

Tinting Luxury Car Windows – 3 Tips From The Intelligent Driver

By | Automotive

Deciding on tinting for luxury car windows can be challenging. Maybe you want to enhance the looks or improve the comfort of the interior with an automotive window film, but you don’t want to cheapen the car or devalue it with an add-on not worthy of the car. A recent article in The Intelligent Driver written by Zeid Nasser took on this exact topic in an article entitled “Tips for Tinting Your Luxury Car’s Windows“. We summarize 3 main points below.

Tinting Luxury Car Windows - 3 Tips From The Intelligent Driver - 2Performance Benefits of Tinting – The article details that in addition to looks, there are performance benefits associated with window tint. “With window tinting for your luxury car, you can extend the life of your car’s interior, reduce the overall amount of heat inside the car, reduce glare, increase security, improve the look of your car, and increase the efficiency of your car’s air conditioning.”

Types of Car Tint – The car details that automotive tint can have a variety of constructions. One of those types is a metal based film. The article mentions that this can be a problem as it could interfere with the vehicle’s electronic systems and mentions a non-metal ceramic film might be a better option. “If you have a luxury car with electronics such as satellite radio, navigation, or advanced keyless entry systems, you’re probably going to want to go with ceramic tinting. Metallic tint has been known to interfere with the electronics in a luxury car, so in most cases it’s simply not worth taking the chance.”

Check The Tint Laws In Your Area – The article mentions that it is important that you understand the laws pertaining to automotive window tint in your area. There are typically laws that dictate what windows / portions of windows can have film applied and exactly how dark that window film can be. For a quick check of the relevant window tint laws throughout the United States and Canada, visit the page located HERE.

We hope that you found this summary of the article helpful with regard to tinting for luxury car windows. If you would like more information, click HERE or contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. Find out why Custom Shade is the Springfield, Missouri area #1 source for automotive window tinting.

Nov 04
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Increase EV - Hybrid Range With Automotive Window Tint - Vehicle Window Tint in the Springfield, Missouri area

Increase EV – Hybrid Range With Automotive Window Tint

By | Automotive

One of the most common questions or concerns when in comes to electric vehicles EVs and hybrids is the range. A recent article in TorqueNews written by Peter Neilson entitled “Why Heat Kills MPG In Toyota Prius And What To Do About It” discusses why window film can help eliminate heat and increase EV – hybrid range.

The article starts by stating that “Heat causes the batteries to be less efficient, and the less energy you can store in your battery, the lower your fuel economy. It is as simple as that….If your internal cabin temps are hot, your battery will be too. Keeping the A/C in good working condition and operating on hot days will help keep those battery temps down.” By keeping the heat down in the interior and on the battery, your batteries will retain more capacity. So what can be done?

According to the article, “Nano Ceramic window tint is a massive help. The tint helps reduce cabin temps. When parking, try to find shade and crack the windows slightly. This will help keep the heat from building up too much inside the cabin. I use a front windshield screen to help keep heat out, along with tinted windows and shaded parking (where available). These practices keep the heat to a minimum and my battery in stable condition.”

In addition, by keeping the heat in check, your vehicle air conditioning system will not have to work as hard to keep the cabin comfortable. By reducing the demand on the air conditioning system, you can reduce the draw on the batteries and keep them cooler. Net result can be an increase in range for your vehicle.

In conclusion, the article states “Excessive Heat and hybrids do not mix well. If your battery has seen its time, the heat could put it over the edge. Keep your fan clean, park in the shade, tint your windows, and yes, washing your car will help too.”

Laws pertaining to vehicle window tinting vary, so please be sure to check the window tint laws in your area.

Hopefully this article was interesting and explained how automotive window tint can help increase ev – hybrid range. If you would like more information regarding the automotive window tint we offer or to talk about your options on getting a vehicle tinted, click contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. Find out why Custom Shade is the Springfield, Missouri area #1 source for automotive window tinting.

Aug 05
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House Window Tint Useful Information And The Pros & Cons of Using It - Home Window Film in Springfield, Missouri

House Window Tint Useful Information And The Pros & Cons of Using It

By | Home

When discussing house window tint with homeowners we often get asked many similar questions. As a result, we wanted to write an article that explains some facts about these innovative films and also shares some pros and cons of having them installed in your home.

4 Fast Facts About House Window Tint

  • Window Film Retrofits To Existing Windows – Window film is installed as a retrofit to your existing windows allowing you to significantly improve the performance of you windows with minimal disruption to your home.
  • Window Film Improves The Comfort In Your Home – Window film can enhance comfort by reducing excessive heat and glare throughout your home or strategically only in areas most impacted by the sun.
  • Window Film Extends The Life Of Your Floors & Furnishings – Most window films will reduce 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. This along with the reduction of heat and glare mentioned above will significantly reduce the contributors of fading and extend the life of your floors and furnishings.
  • Window Film Can Enhance Privacy – By using decorative window films in areas like entryways and bathrooms you can add privacy without resorting to blinds, curtains or shades that obscure the windows.

Pros and Cons of House Window Tint

  • Home Window Film Pros – In addition to the facts listed above, window films can also be used to add safety and security to a home, protect the skin of the occupants in the home and improve the insulating value of your existing windows for far less than the cost of replacement units.
  • Home Window Film Cons – The primary negative of window film is the fact that it can void your existing window warranty if you have one in place. You would have to verify you have a warranty in place and that window film would void the factory warranty. If so, a supplemental warranty from the window film manufacturer is often available to replace the voided manufacturer warranty.

We hope that this article shed some light on house window tint and the pros and cons of using it in your home. If you would like more information, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We would be happy to discuss this with you and provide you with a free, no obligation quote of implementing a window film product into your Springfield, Missouri area home.

Jul 01
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Window Film Energy Saving Benefits Discussed by Department of Energy - Window Tinting Services in Springfield, Missouri

Window Film Energy Saving Benefits Discussed by Department of Energy

By | Commercial, Home

In an article by the Department of Energy website Energy.Gov entitled Energy Efficient Window Attachments, they discuss the window film energy saving benefits as well as the benefits of several other window covering technologies. They highlight window films in the list and have very positive things to say about the energy saving benefits these films provide.

As the article states:

“Window films help block against solar heat gain and protect against glare and ultraviolet exposure…They can be useful for homeowners who don’t want to block views with other window treatments, but who have issues with glare and solar heat gain. They can also be a good choice on windows that are difficult to fit with other window treatments, or in places where artwork, furniture, or carpeting could be faded by UV exposure.”

Window Film Energy Saving Benefits Discussed by Department of EnergyThe article goes on to discuss how different window films are the first window attachment to be rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). This rating allows you to compare the performance figures of differing films on an apples to apples basis. Regarding these labels, the article states that film “includes the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and visible transmittance (VT) of the window film, both numbers between 0 and 1. The lower the SHGC, the better the film is at blocking heat gain. The higher the VT, the more potential for daylighting.”

It’s nice to see window films recognized by a third party rating source for their energy saving abilities. Moreover, it is even more satisfying to see the recognition coming from The Department of Energy as they discuss their role in energy efficient design.

To see the entire article, click HERE

If you have any questions about this article or how you can experience window film energy saving benefits in your home or commercial space, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We would be happy to answer any questions and provide you with a free, no obligation quote to implement this innovative technology into your existing windows.

Jun 23
0
Automotive Window Tint Benefits Are Beyond Just The Looks - Automotive Window Tinting in the Springfield, Missouri

Automotive Window Tint Benefits Are Beyond Just The Looks

By | Automotive

We wanted to summarize an article in the Times Square Chronicles about five automotive window tint benefits that go beyond just looks. We thought you might find this interesting as improving a vehicle’s appearance is what most people think of regarding car tint. Let’s check out all the other benefits!

  • Automotive Window Tint Benefits Are Beyond Just The Looks -2Added Privacy and Increased Security – Window tint comes in a variety of light transmissions, but one benefit of darker films is added privacy. Someone might be able to make out some details, but window film often obscures the view to those on the outside trying to see in. This also can assist in increasing the security of items in your vehicle. As the article states, “it provides the safety from the thieves looking for robbing the vehicles. It prevents them to see your belongings in the parking lot and other areas where car stays for the longer time.“
  • Reduces UV Exposure of Vehicle Occupants – The article mentions the variety of negative things attributed to excessive exposure to UV by saying, “UV rays can damage your skin and increases the chances of skin cancer. It can also lead to the myriad of health problem such as sunburn, premature aging, damage to skin, suppression of immune system, etc.” The Skin Cancer Foundation notes the positive benefits associated with window films in this area in their article A Surprising Danger in Planes, Trains and Automobiles. In addition, blocking the UV can “help to prevent your car’s interior from getting the warp, fade or crack by blocking the UV rays from entering.“
  • Improved Safety From Shattered Glass – When a window film is applied, it often serves to keep the glass from flying in numerous shards in the event of a breakage. This can be useful to help prevent injury from flying glass in an accident.
  • Improved Interior Comfort – Modern window films are for so much more than just vehicle appearance. One major improvement in films has been their ability to reject heat from passing through the glass. As the article mentions, “With the proper window tint, you may reduce the heat inside your car during the scorching summer months by as much as 60%.” This reduction of excessive heat will help you to keep the interior temperature at a more comfortable level on even the really hot days.
  • Increased Gas Mileage – When a vehicle’s air conditioning is operating it often has the effect of adding extra load to the motor. This often translates into a slight reduction in fuel economy when using the AC versus when it is off. From our point above, if the heat entering the vehicle is reduced significantly, the need for AC to keep the interior comfortable will be reduced. Using your AC less can have a positive effect on your fuel economy.

It should be noted that laws regarding window tint vary. To educate yourself on the automotive tint laws in your area, check out the handy directory located HERE.

We hope that this article on automotive window tint benefits beyond looks was enlightening. If you have questions about our services, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. We are your premier source for automotive window tint in the Springfield, Missouri area.

Jun 17
0
Window Film Retrofit Upgrade Enhances Comfort and Helps Save Energy - Window Films and Window Tinting in Springfield, Missouri

Window Film Retrofit Upgrade Enhances Comfort and Helps Save Energy

By | Commercial, Home

We wanted to summarize some information contained in an article that appeared in Healthcare Facilities Today related to how a window film retrofit upgrade to existing glass can enhance comfort and help save energy in nearly any space. The article written by Steve DeBusk entitled Window Film Can Balance Comfort, Energy Savings discusses some primary sources of savings. While this article was written specifically about using these films in hospitals and medical buildings, the benefits can be realized not only in medical facilities, but nearly any residential or commercial space.

The article begins by saying that “the right type of window film offers several energy-saving benefits: enhanced and prolonged performance of HVAC and lighting systems, increased window insulating power, and decreased plug load. Window film also improves the indoor environment by reducing hot and cold spots, making near-window indoor temperatures more tolerable, reducing glare, and lessening exposure to UV rays.” Let’s take a look at each on of these points individually.

Window Film Retrofit Upgrade Enhances Comfort and Helps Save Energy - Window Film and Window Tinting InformationImproved Comfort: As mentioned above, a properly specified window film can help reduce both how and cold spots in a building. Rather than have areas of a building that are too hot or too cold, you can strategically use window films to even out the temperature and increase comfort. In addition, window films can be used to reduce glare and eye strain while allowing pleasant light to stream into the space. This makes a space more pleasant by maintaining views while eliminating the irritating elements of natural lighting.

HVAC Savings: This point was made by stating “proper maintenance and load reduction strategies may extend the life of existing systems. If you’ve identified HVAC as an opportunity to save energy, start by reducing heating and cooling loads. You may also prolong capital investments in HVAC upgrades or replacements.” There are several ways to reduce the load on an HVAC system, but a logical place to start is by controlling the transmission of heat through the windows. Window films can be used to help reduce the heat passing through the glass and allowing the HVAC to not have to work as hard to keep the space at the desired temperature.

Lighting Savings: Having uncontrolled light streaming through the windows can bring some unwanted aspects. This causes many people to use blinds or shades. The article explains by stating while this “helps reduce the effects of solar heat gain, glare, and UV ray exposure, but covering the windows also sacrifices natural light and views. As a result, artificial lighting requirements may increase because it’s the only source of light.” By taking advantage of the natural light coming through the windows, the need to use lighting is decreased and that helps save on lighting costs.

We hope that this summary helped you understand how a window film retrofit upgrade can improve your space by making it more comfortable and help save energy costs. If you would like more information on these innovative films, click HERE. If you have any questions, or would like to arrange a free, no obligation consultation of your commercial facility, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. We service Springfield, Missouri and the surrounding areas. We would be glad to explain the different types of window film and help you get exactly the right film to fit the needs of your space.

Jun 08
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Four Commercial Window Film Benefits Detailed on Buildings.com - Commercial Window Tinting in Springfield, Missouri

Four Commercial Window Film Benefits Detailed on Buildings.com

By | Commercial

With so many people re-imagining commercial spaces post-pandemic, we wanted to share this summary of an article that first appeared on Buildings.com about several commercial window film benefits. While the open feeling and natural lighting that windows and glass walls create can make a space feel very inviting, these same features can have drawbacks. These window film benefits can help you address the drawbacks and maximize the positive attributes of your windows.

Four Commercial Window Film Benefits
  1. Four Commercial Window Film BenefitsLess Glare and Lower Energy Bills – Window film can be applied to existing glass surfaces to reduce glare and help block heat from entering a space. Less heat means less work for the HVAC system which can result in lower energy bills.
  2. Customized Films To Meet Performance and Design Requirements – Modern window films can literally give you the best of both worlds. It once was true that getting high performance out of a window film meant dealing with a more reflective glass surface from the outside during the day and from the inside at night. This was often not the desired look or accepted design. That is no longer the case. You can achieve high levels of performance with films that are barely detectable on the glass and do not increase reflectivity on the inside or outside.
  3. Decorative, Privacy and Branding – Current decorative window films come in many designs and finishes. From traditional white frosted film to gradients and intricate designs, there is nearly something for every taste. These films can be retrofitted to nearly any glass surface to add a decorative element, increase privacy or to integrate a company logo or branding. You are nearly only limited by your own imagination.
  4. Personal Safety and Facility Security – Window films retrofitted to existing glass can help reduce injury possibility in the event of broken glass as well as increase the intrusion resistance and facility security. As the article states; “Window film buyers sometimes believe that window film can make glass shatterproof, a longstanding myth in the market. The truth is that window film can’t prevent glass from breaking, but it can hold glass fragments together when the glass is broken.That usually means that the broken glass also stays in place in the window rather than scattering everywhere, keeping wind and rain out of your facility during a storm and making it harder for an intruder to get into your building through the broken window.“

We hope that you found this article informative about commercial window film benefits. If you would like more information on these innovative films, click HERE. If you have any questions, or would like to arrange a free, no obligation consultation of your commercial facility, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. We service Springfield, Missouri and the surrounding areas. We would be glad to explain the different types of window film and help you get exactly the right film to fit the needs of your space.

May 20
0
Washington Post Home & Garden Discusses How To Prevent Sun Fading - Home Window Tinting and Films in the Springfield, Missouri area

Washington Post Home & Garden Discusses How To Prevent Sun Fading

By | Home

In a recent question and answer segment of the Home & Garden section of The Washington Post, the author Jeanne Huber discussed how window film can be effective to help prevent sun fading of furniture and floors.

Washington Post Home & Garden Discusses How To Prevent Sun Fading 2The person’s question was as follows: “My apartment — on the 12th floor, with southeast exposure — is wonderfully sunny. Plants do well, and I enjoy the light and the view all day. However, the sun has bleached both wood and upholstered furniture and some carpet. I don’t want to close the drapes and live in the dark. Can my windows be treated?”

Jeanne went on to describe how window film could be the solution to the issue by saying, “Having window film installed on the inside of your windows could be the solution…Window film cannot totally prevent fading because other factors, such as humidity, account for about 5 percent of the problem. But depending on the window film you select, it can go a long way toward reducing the problem. All films block virtually all ultraviolet rays from the sun, which are responsible for about 45 percent of fading. Films also can block the rays that together cause about half of fading: visible light and infrared light, which causes heat.”

Jeanne was absolutely correct. The window films we carry cannot completely stop sun fading, virtually nothing can, but they can significantly slow down the process. By significantly reducing UV, visible light and heat, a properly specified window film can allow you to enjoy the sun without worrying about bleaching out your furniture or flooring.

You can read the complete piece in The Washington Post by clicking HERE.

If you would like more information about how our home window films can help to prevent sun fading in your home, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We would be happy to discuss this with you and provide you with a free, no obligation quote of implementing a window film product into your Springfield, Missouri area house.