Feb 19
0
This post delves into what UV rays are, their harmful effects, & how tint can serve as an effective barrier against these invisible threats.

Understanding UV Rays & the Benefits of Window Film

By | Automotive, Commercial, Home | No Comments

In our daily lives, we often overlook the impact of ultraviolet (UV) rays on our health and surroundings. This blog post delves into what UV rays are, their harmful effects, and how window film can serve as an effective barrier against these invisible threats.

By understanding the different types of UV rays and their implications, as well as the advantages of window film, you can make informed decisions for your home or business.

What are UV Rays and Why are They Harmful?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. While they are essential for the production of vitamin D in our bodies, excessive exposure can lead to serious health issues. UV rays are categorized into three types, each with varying wavelengths and effects on human health.

Types of UV Rays and Their Impact on Human Health

  1. UVA Rays: These rays have the longest wavelength and penetrate the skin more deeply. They are primarily responsible for premature aging and can contribute to skin cancer. UVA rays can also damage collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
  2. UVB Rays: These rays have a shorter wavelength and are the primary cause of sunburn. They play a significant role in the development of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. UVB rays are more intense during the summer months and can cause immediate damage to the skin.
  3. UVC Rays: These rays have the shortest wavelength and are the most harmful. However, they are mostly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and do not reach the surface. Artificial sources, such as certain types of lamps, can emit UVC rays, posing a risk to skin and eye health.

Impact of UV Rays on Interior Furnishings

UV rays don’t just affect our skin; they can also wreak havoc on our interior furnishings. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to fading and discoloration of furniture, flooring, and artwork. Fabrics can lose their vibrancy, wood can become brittle, and valuable pieces can suffer irreversible damage. Protecting your interior spaces from UV rays is essential for maintaining their beauty and longevity.

How Window Film Works to Block UV Rays

Window film is an effective solution for blocking harmful UV rays while allowing natural light to enter your space. There are several types of window film, each with unique properties:

  1. Dyed Window Film: This type of film absorbs solar energy and reduces glare. While it provides some UV protection, it is less effective than other options.
  2. Metalized Window Film: This film reflects UV rays and solar heat, providing better protection than dyed films. It also enhances privacy and reduces glare.
  3. Ceramic Window Film: This advanced film offers superior UV protection without compromising visible light transmission. It is highly durable and does not fade over time.

UV Protection Ratings of Window Films

When selecting window film, it’s essential to consider its UV protection rating. Look for films that block at least 99% of UV rays for optimal protection. The right level of protection will depend on your specific needs, such as the amount of sunlight your space receives and the types of furnishings you want to protect.

Benefits of UV Protection with Window Film

Investing in window film offers numerous benefits:

  1. Skin Health Benefits: By blocking harmful UV rays, window film can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and eye damage. This is especially important for individuals who spend extended periods near windows.
  2. Interior Protection: Window film helps preserve the integrity of your furnishings by reducing fading and damage. This means your furniture, flooring, and artwork will maintain their appearance for longer.
  3. Energy Savings: Window film can reduce heat gain in your home, leading to lower cooling costs. This energy efficiency not only saves you money but also contributes to a more sustainable environment.
  4. Increased Comfort: By reducing glare and heat, window film enhances the comfort of your living or working space. This is particularly beneficial for areas with large windows or significant sun exposure.

Choosing the Right Window Film

When selecting window film, consider the following factors:

  1. UV Protection Rating: Ensure the film blocks a high percentage of UV rays.
  2. Visible Light Transmission: Choose a film that allows the desired amount of natural light while still providing protection.
  3. Heat Rejection: Look for films that effectively reduce heat gain.
  4. Aesthetics: Consider how the film will look on your windows and how it complements your interior design.

To ensure a successful installation, research and find a reputable window film installer. Look for reviews, ask for recommendations, and verify their experience and certifications. A professional installer will help you choose the right film and ensure proper application. Make sure to visit our “Contact” page to setup a time to learn more.

Protecting yourself and your interior spaces from harmful UV rays is crucial for maintaining health and preserving your belongings. Window film offers a practical and effective solution, providing significant benefits for homeowners and businesses alike. Make sure you are aware of all local tint laws in your area. If you’re interested in learning more about UV protection and how window film can enhance your space, consider contacting a professional for a consultation. Your health and your home deserve the best protection available.

Contact:

Contact Custom Shade Window Tinting in Springfield, MO

Local Tint Laws:

https://windowfilmpros.com/window-tint-laws/

Feb 06
0

The Benefits of Installing Commercial Window Tint

By | Commercial | No Comments

Installing commercial window tint on building windows offers a multitude of advantages for property owners, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and cost savings. This document explores the various benefits of window film, emphasizing how it can significantly reduce utility costs while enhancing the overall comfort and aesthetics of commercial spaces.

Energy Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of commercial window tint is its ability to improve energy efficiency. By reflecting a significant portion of solar heat, window films help maintain a consistent indoor temperature.

This means that heating and cooling systems do not have to work as hard to regulate the environment, leading to reduced energy consumption.

Reduced Cooling Costs

During hot months, air conditioning systems often struggle to keep indoor spaces cool.

Commercial window tint can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays and a substantial amount of solar heat, which directly translates to lower cooling costs. Property owners can expect to see a noticeable decrease in their energy bills, especially in regions with high temperatures.

Improved Insulation

In addition to cooling benefits, window films also enhance insulation during colder months. Certain types of window films can help retain heat within the building, reducing the need for excessive heating. This dual benefit of temperature regulation throughout the year can lead to significant savings on utility costs.

UV Protection

Commercial window tint provides excellent UV protection, blocking up to 99% of harmful rays. This not only protects the occupants of the building but also safeguards furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading and damage. By preserving the integrity of interior furnishings, property owners can avoid costly replacements and repairs. UV protection also helps to reduce the risk of skin damage for those inside, making the environment safer.

Over time, this protection can extend the lifespan of the building’s interiors, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Additionally, preventing UV rays from entering can help maintain a more comfortable and healthy indoor atmosphere.

Glare Reduction

Excessive glare from sunlight can be a significant issue in commercial spaces, affecting productivity and comfort. Window films can effectively reduce glare, creating a more pleasant working environment for employees and clients alike. This improvement in comfort can lead to increased productivity and satisfaction among occupants.

Enhanced Privacy and Security

Window films can also enhance privacy for building occupants without sacrificing natural light. This is particularly beneficial for offices and retail spaces where confidentiality is important. Additionally, certain types of window films can provide an added layer of security by holding shattered glass together in the event of breakage, thus deterring potential intruders.

Aesthetic Appeal

Beyond functional benefits, commercial window films can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a building. With various styles and tints available, property owners can choose films that complement their building’s design while providing a modern look. This aesthetic upgrade can improve the overall value of the property.

In conclusion, installing commercial window tint on building windows is a smart investment for property owners looking to save on utility costs while enhancing comfort and aesthetics. With benefits such as improved energy efficiency, reduced cooling costs, UV protection, glare reduction, enhanced privacy, and increased aesthetic appeal, window films offer a comprehensive solution for modern commercial spaces. By making this upgrade, property owners can enjoy long-term savings and a more pleasant environment for occupants.

If you have questions about these films, contact us at (417) 823-8715. We are located in Springfield, Missouri and cover the entire surrounding areas.

Jan 24
0
Heat Loss: How window film can help you save energy and stay warm this winter. Learn how high-performance window film reduces heat loss through your windows, keeping your home cozy and your energy bills low.

Banishing the Chill: How Window Film Can Stop Heat Loss in Its Tracks

By | Home

Winter can be a real energy guzzler, especially when it comes to keeping your home warm. Drafty windows are notorious for letting precious heat escape, leaving you shivering and your energy bills sky-high. But fear not, homeowners! There’s a simple yet effective solution to this chilly predicament: high-performance window film.

Think of your windows like a sieve in the winter. Warm air inside your home is constantly trying to escape through those tiny gaps and cracks, while icy blasts from outside are eager to infiltrate. This constant battle leads to energy loss and a less-than-cozy living environment.

Enter the hero: window film.

How Window Film Stops Heat Loss in Its Tracks

High-performance window film acts as an invisible shield, creating a barrier between your cozy abode and the frigid outdoors. Here’s how it works:

  1. Reduced Conduction: Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct contact. Window film significantly reduces heat transfer through your windows by creating an insulating layer. This means less heat escapes your home during the winter, keeping you warmer and your energy bills lower.
  2. Minimized Convection: Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of air. Window film helps to reduce air infiltration, minimizing the flow of cold air into your home through gaps and cracks around your windows.
  3. Enhanced Radiation Control: Infrared radiation is a form of heat energy that can easily pass through ordinary glass. High-performance window films are designed to reflect infrared radiation back into the room, keeping your home warmer and more comfortable.

Beyond Energy Savings: Additional Benefits

  1. UV Protection: Window film blocks harmful UV rays, protecting your furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading and damage.
  2. Glare Reduction: Winter sun can create glare on your computer screens and other electronic devices. Window film reduces glare, creating a more comfortable and productive living environment.
  3. Improved Privacy: Window film can enhance your privacy, allowing you to enjoy the view without feeling exposed.
  4. Enhanced Aesthetics: Window film can add a touch of style to your home with a variety of tints and finishes to choose from.

Choosing the Right Window Film

Not all window films are created equal. Look for high-performance films with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, which are specifically designed to reduce heat loss. Consult with a professional window film installer to discuss your specific needs and choose the best film for your home.

So, this winter, say goodbye to drafty windows and hello to cozy comfort. Invest in high-performance window film and experience the difference for yourself.

Need help finding a local installer – CLICK HERE.

If you have questions about these films, contact us at (417) 823-8715. We are located in Springfield, Missouri and cover the entire surrounding area.

Jan 08
0
Discover how high-performance window film can transform your commercial building this winter. Learn how it reduces energy costs, improves comfort, enhances security, and boosts your company's sustainability.

Curbing the Chill: High-Performance Window Film Can Save $$ in 2025

By | Commercial

The frigid grip of winter can significantly impact the comfort and energy consumption of commercial buildings. Heating costs soar as businesses struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, while cold drafts can wreak havoc on employee productivity. Fortunately, a simple yet effective solution lies in the application of high-performance window film.

In 2025, with sustainability and energy efficiency at the forefront of many business strategies, window film emerges as a crucial tool for building owners and managers. Beyond aesthetics, modern window films offer a multifaceted approach to improving building performance and enhancing the overall occupant experience.

1. Winter Comfort and Energy Savings

One of the most significant benefits of window film during the winter months is its ability to reduce heat loss. Traditional glass windows are notorious for their poor insulation properties, allowing precious heat to escape. High-performance window films create an invisible barrier, significantly minimizing heat transfer and keeping your building warmer. This reduced heat loss translates to lower energy bills and a more comfortable indoor environment for employees and customers.

2. Glare Reduction and Improved Productivity

Winter sunlight, while welcome, can often cause glare on computer screens and other electronic devices, leading to eye strain and reduced productivity. Window film with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings effectively reduces glare, creating a more comfortable and productive work environment. This not only improves employee comfort but also enhances overall workplace efficiency.

3. UV Protection and Indoor Air Quality

While winter sunlight may not seem as intense as summer sun, UV rays can still penetrate windows and cause damage to furniture, flooring, and artwork. High-performance window films offer superior UV protection, safeguarding your valuable assets and creating a more aesthetically pleasing interior. Furthermore, by reducing heat gain, window film can help minimize the need for excessive ventilation, improving indoor air quality and reducing the risk of airborne contaminants.

4. Enhanced Security

Beyond energy efficiency and comfort, window film can also enhance the security of your commercial building. Safety and security films are designed to deter break-ins by making it more difficult to break through windows. This added layer of protection can provide peace of mind for building occupants and valuable assets.

5. Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility

In today’s environmentally conscious world, sustainability is a key concern for many businesses. By reducing energy consumption and minimizing their environmental impact, companies can enhance their corporate social responsibility image. Investing in energy-efficient solutions like window film demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and can appeal to environmentally conscious customers and employees.

Choosing the Right Window Film:

Selecting the right window film requires careful consideration of your specific needs and priorities. Factors such as the building’s orientation, climate, and desired level of privacy should all be taken into account. Consulting with a window film professional can help you choose the most suitable film for your building and achieve the desired results.

High-performance window film offers a range of benefits for commercial buildings during the winter months. By reducing heat loss, minimizing glare, and enhancing overall comfort and security, window film can contribute to a more productive and sustainable work environment. As we move further into 2025 and beyond, investing in energy-efficient solutions like window film will become increasingly important for businesses looking to thrive in a competitive and environmentally conscious world.

If you have questions about these films, contact us at (417) 823-8715. We are located in Springfield, Missouri and cover the entire surrounding areas.

Dec 13
0
home-window-film

Home Window Film: A Guide to Elevating Comfort and Privacy

By | Home

Home window film, a thin, transparent layer applied to your windows, offers a myriad of benefits that can significantly enhance your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. While often associated with commercial buildings, window film is equally beneficial for residential properties. Let’s delve into the reasons why you should consider this innovative solution for your home.

Privacy, Please:

One of the most significant advantages of home window film is its ability to provide privacy without sacrificing natural light. By reducing visibility into your home, you can enjoy a sense of seclusion and security. Imagine relaxing in your living room without feeling exposed to the outside world. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or hosting a gathering, window film ensures your privacy remains intact.

Harnessing the Sun’s Power:

While sunlight can brighten up your home, excessive heat and glare can be a nuisance. Window film acts as a barrier, blocking harmful UV rays and reducing heat gain during the summer months. This not only helps to keep your home cooler but also protects your furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading and damage.

Winter Warmth:

As the temperature drops, window film can help retain heat, reducing energy consumption and lowering heating costs. By minimizing heat loss through your windows, you can create a cozy and energy-efficient living space.

Aesthetics and Curb Appeal:

Window film can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. With a wide range of options available, you can choose a film that complements your home’s style, whether it’s a sleek, modern look or a more traditional aesthetic. Additionally, window film can help to reduce glare, making your windows appear less reflective and more inviting.

Easy Installation and Long-lasting Results:

One of the greatest benefits of window film is its ease of installation. Professional installers can apply the film quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruption to your daily routine. Once installed, window film is durable and requires minimal maintenance.

Real-World Benefits:

  1. Reduced Energy Costs: By regulating temperature and reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling, window film can help you save money on your energy bills.
  2. Improved Comfort: A more comfortable indoor environment with reduced glare and heat gain.
  3. Enhanced Security: While home window film won’t deter a determined burglar, it can deter opportunistic thieves by making it more difficult to see inside your home.
  4. UV Protection: Safeguard your skin, eyes, and furniture from harmful UV rays.

By making a wise investment in home window film, you can elevate your home’s comfort, security, and style.

We hope that this article provided some useful information about how residential window films are perfect for this winter season. If you have any questions, or would like to arrange a free, no obligation consultation for your home, contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. We would be glad to explain these innovative and functional window films available and help you get exactly the right film to fit your needs in the Springfield, MO area.

Mar 14
0
Furnishing a home can be expensive. Protect your investment against sun damaged floors, furniture and furnishings with home window film.

Sun Damaged Floors & Furnishings – Great Fade Protection

By | Home

Added Protection Against Sun Damaged Floors and Furniture 2Many people have been making investments in their homes in these past several years as they are planning to stay put with interest rates soaring. With the investment in home improvement, it only makes sense that you would want to protect against sun damaged floors and furniture. This article is designed to explain the true causes of sun damage and why window films retrofitted to your existing windows can be a good solution.

If you don’t want your new floors or furniture to end up looking like the floor above or to the right, check out the information below.

What Causes Sun Damaged Floors and Furniture

First, let’s discuss what causes this type of fading and sun damage. A common misconception is that the sun’s UV rays are what cause sun damaged floors, furniture and furnishings. While UV rays are certainly the largest component that causes fading, as the chart below illustrates, they actually only account for 40% of the total.

Solar heat, or the heat you feel passing through your windows and the visible light streaming through are also major contributors. These factors account for an additional 25% each of the causes of fading. The last factor accounts for the remaining 10% and is listed as “other”.  It is comprised of a variety of things that are harder to control like interior lighting, humidity, etc.

One thing this chart might help you realize is that you cannot “stop” fading completely. The facts are that unless the items you want to protect are placed in a dark, climate controlled room, they will typically fade over time. However, most of us plan to have the flooring and furniture in a place that will be exposed to UV, heat and light. This being the case, the most you can do is attack these major contributors of fading.

By significantly attacking these contributors, you can slow down this fading process and extend the life of floors and furnishings. With that in mind, one of the best ways to attack these primary causes of sun damage and fading is with window films.

Why Are Window Films a Good Solution to Fading?

As mentioned above, you cannot completely stop fading and most people do not want to “close-up” their home in an effort to stop the damage from occurring. So, assuming windows will not be covered, you need to attack these fading factors before they enter the home. Window films are a great option because they attack all 3 major contributors of fading before they pass through the glass and enter your home.

Most professionally installed window films will block 99%+ of the UV rays, so that is nearly 40% of the factors removed. In addition, many window films can significantly reduce heat coming through the window, so that eliminates part of that 25% piece. Finally, it is possible to block up to 60% of the visible light coming through a window without noticeably darkening the window.

When you combine the overall reduction in these 3 fade factors, you can take a significant portion of the fading pie shown above. The best part is that this protection can be accomplished while continuing to retain the open feel of your home through the use of window film.

We hope this article has served to shed some light the factors of sun damaged floors, furniture and furnishings and how utilizing window film can be one of your best options to address this issue. If you would like more information, click HERE and contact Custom Shade today by calling (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We can provide you with a free, no obligation assessment and estimate on the work you are considering. We are based in Springfield, Missouri and proudly service the surrounding area.

Mar 01
0
Stay Cool & Save Energy! The Benefits of House Window Films

Stay Cool & Save Energy! The Benefits of House Window Films

By | Home

Higher Temperatures Expected – How House Window Films Can Help Save Energy

The Old Farmer’s Almanac, a publication known for its long-range weather forecasts, has predicted a hotter than normal Summer for much of the United States in 2024. While their methods haven’t been scientifically validated, the Almanac boasts an 80% accuracy rate on their yearly forecasts.

In addition, consumers should brace for continued high energy costs throughout 2024. While some sources predict a slight decrease in average electricity prices nationally, these may not be reflected in all regions. Coupled with the potential for a hotter-than-average summer, which could increase demand for electricity, many individuals could face higher energy bills in the coming year. It’s crucial to consider energy-saving measures to navigate this period of potentially elevated costs.

Stay Cool & Save Energy! The Benefits of House Window Films - Home Window Tinting ServicesWe recently came across an article in USA Today that detailed 5 ways to cool your home without central air. The article discussed things like using dehumidifiers, fans and other portable AC units, but they also discussed how house window films retrofitted to your existing windows can help.

We wanted to take a moment to summarize what they said about these innovative films and expand on how they can help you have a comfortable home this Summer.

The article mentions that according to the U.S. Department Of Energy, over one third of all sunlight that enters the home is transferred into heat. Therefore, any strategy to help keep your home cooler in the Summer needs to include a way to block this heat. This is where home window films retrofitted to your existing glass come in.

As the USA Today article explains, “A discreet window tint defends you from the sun by absorbing light shining in. Here at Reviewed, we tested window tints in our lab, and we were surprised by how much direct sunlight they block out. As a plus, the tinted film works as another layer of insulation come wintertime.”

Gone are the days when energy-efficient window films meant sacrificing aesthetics for functionality. Modern innovation has brought exciting advancements to the market, allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of heat rejection without compromising the look of their windows.

Now, homeowners can embrace a new generation of window films that effectively block a significant amount of heat while maintaining a clear, near-invisible appearance. So, you can achieve substantial heat rejection without the need for dark, tinted windows that might not match your home’s style.

Furthermore, these innovative house window films offer an incredibly cost-effective solution compared to replacing your existing windows. They can be easily applied directly onto your current windows, instantly improving their performance and energy efficiency. This translates to significant savings on your energy bills, especially during the hot summer months.

For targeted heat control, you can strategically place the film on specific windows throughout your home. This allows you to address the rooms most impacted by the sun’s rays, creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient living environment. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective way to improve comfort or simply want to keep your home cool and stylish, window film offers a compelling solution in 2024.

We hope that this article gave you some ideas on how house window films might be able to improve the comfort of your home this Summer. 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.

Feb 16
0
School Security Upgrades Addressed By Campus Security Magazine - Safety and Security Window Film in Springfield, MO.

School Security Upgrades Discussed in Campus Security Magazine

By | Safety & Security Window Film

A recent article in Campus Security Magazine entitled “Now Is the Time to Improve Your Campus Security and Safety Infrastructure” discusses why, with recent federal funding, school security upgrades should be a priority. The article starts by saying, “If your school district, college or university has outdated infrastructure (and, let’s face it, what educational facility doesn’t?), there is no better time than now to make upgrades. That’s because a whole lot of federal funding has recently become available for these types of projects.”

How Window Film Fits With School Security Upgrades

Many schools have already utilized state and federal funding for security window films, but this latest round of funding enables them to enhance the work that may have already been done. We know that windows and glass door are often a main security vulnerability in school facilities. In another article entitled “Is Your Child’s School Safe? Examining the Top 3 School Safety Vulnerabilities“, the article noted glass as being one of the top three vulnerabilities because of the extensive use of tempered glass in schools.

The good news is that this school safety vulnerability can be addressed by retrofitting existing tempered school glass with a security window film. In addition, about $280 billion is currently available for K-12 and higher education infrastructure improvements.

The article goes on to state that This means that this money can be used for a wide variety of solutions that improve the long-term safety and health of students, faculty and staff..” and that “Schools and institutions of higher education would be foolish not to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Finally, in a District Administration Magazine article entitled “Building Blocks of a School Security Plan”, the article states “Make your building perimeter harder to penetrate. If you already have locks on your outside doors, the next item you should consider on your list is security film for your windows. After the doors, the next obvious place a person with bad intentions will try to enter the building is through your windows. Security film maintains the integrity of the window, even if the glass is broken.

It helps to hold the glass in place, acting as a screen that is difficult to breach, even with a sledge hammer or baseball bat. I believe that simple is better. Make sure that your plan is based on principles such as distance or time. Ask yourself, Does this security device offer my community additional time by delaying the threat?”

The evidence is clear that security window films can be an vital part of any school security program. If you would like more information or have any questions about window films being used for these school security upgrades, please contact us by calling (417) 823-8715. We would be happy to provide you with a free property assessment and estimate on retrofitting security window film at your Springfield, Missouri area schools.