Upgrade Commercial Buildings with Innovative Window Films - Commercial Window Tinting in the Springfield, MO area.

Upgrade Commercial Buildings with Innovative Window Films

By | Commercial

Did you know that window tint and films are a cost-effective, retrofittable solution that upgrade commercial buildings by improving the safety, comfort, and energy efficiency of the facility? Furthermore, they can be easily installed to existing glass to solve some of the biggest concerns facing property managers today. Learn more about the benefits of these innovative products below.

6 Great Benefits of Professionally Installed Commercial Window Films

Lower Energy Costs

A huge cost to facility owners comes in the form of high utility bills. It’s a large and expensive task to keep a huge building cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and windows account for about 30% of your heating and cooling load. To cut down on those costs, you can have a commercial window film installed that can block as much as 80% of the sun’s heat. Some low-e window films can even work by not only reducing heat in the Summer, but also retain the interior heat in the Winter. With modern window film options, you can get greater energy savings year-round without the need for expensive replacement windows or window treatments.

Increased Security

Windows and exposed glass are some of the most vulnerable parts on any building. The most common points of entry for burglars are windows and doors, so protecting your glass with a protective security film adds safety and function to your structure. Security films make glass more resistant to shattering, and if anyone does try to break in, the film holds the glass in place to delay the intruder and reduce the risk of a bystander getting injured. It’s also an important safety add-on for areas where earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes, and other natural disasters make glass more likely to shatter and become a projectile. As with any safety and anti-intruder product, security films should be used in conjunction with other safety measures to make your facility as secure as possible.

Improved Comfort

By reducing the heat and glare coming through your windows, you make the space more comfortable for those working in it. From eliminating hot and cold spots across floors, to reducing irritating glare and reflection on computer and monitor screens, window films help make your space a more comfortable place to be.

UV Protection

While sunlight in a workplace improves mood and morale, it also lets damaging UV-A rays into the workplace. UV-A rays cause tanning, premature aging, and increase your risk of skin cancer, so adding a UV-blocking film to your facility is a great step to reducing those risks for those working near windows. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends UV-blocking window films to let the daylight in but keep those UV rays out. Not only does this reduce cancer risk, it helps keep furniture, flooring and other furnishings from fading in color.

Better for the Environment

The EPA reports that 75% of all windows in the US are inefficient, so facility owners often look to replacing their windows when they want to cut energy costs. However, an energy-saving window film can save facilities thousands without the need for the huge cost of replacing windows. In addition to the energy and health benefits, you can feel good about knowing that your facility has a smaller carbon footprint and that your facility’s current windows won’t end up in a landfill.

Enhanced Style

Depending on the facility, style might not be your biggest priority when it comes to windows, but a film is an easy and cost-effective way to upgrade the look of your building without a huge renovation. From etched glass styles to branded appliqués that show off your brand, there’s a film for every taste and business.

If you would like more information on how window films can upgrade commercial buildings, click HERE. If you have questions about these films, contact us at (417) 823-8715. We would be happy to provide a free, no obligation consultation and estimate of implementing these solutions in your Springfield, Missouri area space.

Glare Reducing Window Film Offers Improved Winter Comfort - Home and Commercial Window Film Services in the Springfield, MO area.

Glare Reducing Window Film Offers Improved Winter Comfort

By | Commercial, Home

Are you aware of the benefits of glare reducing window film and why it might be even more important in the Winter months? We wrote this article to explain why glare is worse at this time of the year and how these innovative films can help.

It may seem counterintuitive, but it’s not your imagination, the sun’s light and glare actually appear brighter in the Winter. The reason is that from October through Spring, the sun is much lower in the sky and that presents itself as an irritating glare that you might not notice as much at other times of the year. This lower angle of the sun’s rays hitting your windows results in a corresponding lower angle light passed through into the space.

The combination of a brighter sun and the lower angle of the rays result in excessive glare that make a space less comfortable and make seeing a computer or television screen more difficult. Furthermore, when you combine this lower angle and brighter sun with reflection off water or snow, the resulting glare can be even worse. Finally, the leaves on tress that provide a barrier to glare in the warmer months are missing giving the sun an unobstructed path to your windows.

So, How Does Glare Reducing Window Film Help?

For these reasons, Winter is the best time to consider retrofitting your existing windows with a glare reducing window film. Much like a quality pair of sunglasses, window films can significantly reduce the glare and increase visibility and comfort without negatively impacting your views. In fact, when the glare is reduced, your eyes can actually relax and result in an enhanced view and a more comfortable home.

In addition, significant glare problems are often accompanied by the issue of faded floors, furniture and furnishings. The increased sun exposure brings in excessive UV and light which both are major contributors to fading. A great added benefit of  window film is that it also will typically reduce 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays and a portion of the visible light.

If you would like more information or have any questions about glare reducing window film, contact us at (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We would be happy to provide a free, no obligation consultation and estimate of implementing these solutions in your Springfield, Missouri area space.

New Year, New View: 5 Reasons to Tint Your Car Windows in 2024 - Automotive Window Tinting in Springfield, MO

New Year, New View: 5 Reasons to Tint Your Car Windows in 2024

By | Automotive

As the sun creeps higher in the January sky, we’re reminded of the joys and challenges a new year brings. For many, it’s a time for resolutions, fresh starts, and maybe even a little automotive TLC. So, if you’re looking to spruce up your car and add a touch of cool comfort to your daily drives, consider one upgrade that offers a bundle of benefits: tint your car windows!

Here are 5 compelling reasons why getting your windows tinted should be at the top of your auto wishlist in 2024:

  1. Beat the Heat (and Save on A/C): We all know that scorching summer sun can turn your car into a rolling sauna. Window tint acts as a shield, blocking damaging UV rays and reducing the interior temperature by as much as 15 degrees. This can save on gas by taking the pressure off your air conditioning, making it a win for both your budget and the environment.
  2. Glare Goodbye: Sun-drenched roads can be blinding, causing eye strain and making it difficult to react quickly. Tinted windows reduce glare significantly, giving you a clearer view of the road and enhancing your driving safety.
  3. Sun Protection, Inside and Out: UV rays aren’t just annoying – they’re harmful. Window tinting blocks up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays, protecting your skin from premature aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Bonus points for your car’s interior: Say goodbye to faded dashboards and cracked leather, as reduced sun exposure keeps your upholstery looking sharp.
  4. Privacy Please: Want to keep prying eyes away from your belongings or enjoy a little private road trip karaoke? Tinted windows act as a barrier, obscuring the view into your car while still allowing you to see out comfortably. This added security brings peace of mind, especially when parked in busy areas.
  5. Instant Upgrade, Lasting Value: Window tinting doesn’t just improve your driving experience, it can also boost your car’s resale value. A sleek, professionally tinted car has a more modern and stylish look, making it more appealing to potential buyers down the line.

Beyond these practical benefits, there’s something undeniably cool about tinted windows. They add a touch of mystery and sophistication to any vehicle, turning your daily commute into a mini-escape from the ordinary. So, as you plan your 2024 resolutions, don’t just focus on self-improvement – consider giving your car a little upgrade too. With window tinting, you’ll enjoy a cooler, safer, and more stylish ride throughout the year, making every journey a fresh start.

Remember, window tint regulations vary by state, we can help you choose a high-quality film and complies with local laws. Happy cruising in your newly tinted haven!

If you would like to tint your car windows and want more information , check out our automotive window tint page, or contact us by calling (417) 823-8715 . Find out why Custom Shade – Springfield Window Tinting is the Springfield, Missouri areas #1 source for automotive window tinting.

Five Primary Benefits of Using Decorative Film Versus Custom Glass - Decorative Window Film in Springfield, MO

Decorative Film vs Custom Glass – 5 Great Window Film Benefits

By | Decorative window film

Decorative film and decorative glass are popular in both commercial and home settings. The main reason is how versatile they can make a space. You can add elements of privacy, decor or branding without making a space feel enclosed. It is easy to see why these products are being used more frequently as commercial and home spaces are being reimagined. With that said, is there a benefit to using either decorative film or a custom glass panel? In our opinion, decorative window film is a superior option and this article gives 5 reasons we feel that to be the case.

5 Primary Benefits of Decorative Film vs Custom Glass
Decorative Film vs Custom Glass – 5 Primary Benefits of Window Film - 2
  1. Retrofittable to Existing Glass – You can avoid the excessive cost of removing your existing glass and replacing it with a custom glass panel as decorative film can be applied to the existing glass panel in most cases.
  2. Cost – Even basic custom glass panels can get costly. However, decorative glass films allow you to implement much more intricate and involved designs at a fraction of what having a custom piece of glass would cost.
  3. Reversible – If the needs of a space change and you would like to remove the decorative element, the decorative film can simply be removed. With a custom glass panel, you would need to order a new piece of glass and have it installed.
  4. Nearly Unlimited Options – Unlike actual custom glass, designs using decorative glass film are limited nearly by only your imagination. Through the use of potter cut film or custom printing, your dreams can truly become reality.
  5. Easier to Clean – When the actual glass panel is customized to give a frosted or sand blasted look, it creates a rough surface in the glass. This surface attracts dust, oil from people’s hand, etc and begins to look dirty over time. As the dirt becomes embedded in the surface, it becomes harder to remove it completely and keep the decorative panel looking clean. On the other hand, designs utilizing decorative glass films are easily cleaned so that they continue to look as good as the day they were installed.

We hope that this brief article gave you some compelling reasons why a decorative film might be a better option that custom glass panels. If you would like more information on these innovative and versatile films, click HERE. If you have any questions or would like to arrange for a free, no obligation consultation of your project, contact us today at (417) 823-8715. We are located in Springfield, Missouri and service the surrounding area.

Perfect Home Gift? – 3 Reasons to Consider Window Film

By | Home
How is Window Film The Perfect Home Gift?

It’s officially that time of year again! People are often scrambling around to come up with gift ideas. Why not give a gift that continues to provide value well into the future? Considering that many people are spending more time in their home at this time of the year, we wanted to share what we thought might be the perfect home gift. Who couldn’t use a gift that will improve comfort, save money and help preserve furniture, floors and furnishings in your home? That is exactly what retrofitting a window film to the existing glass in your home can do. Sound interesting? Let’s learn more!

3 Ways That Window Film Makes The Perfect Home Gift
  1. Help Save Money On Utility Costs – As a result of spending more time at home, many have noticed their heating and cooling system working harder to maintain the desired comfort level throughout the day. When these systems are working harder, they consume more energy. Window films retrofitted to your existing glass can help reduce the demand on your system by making your windows more energy efficient. With the projected significant rise in utility costs this upcoming year, this reduction in demand on the system can result in some nice utility savings.
  2. Improve The Comfort Of A Home – Nothing impacts the comfort of a home more than being too hot or too cold. That is exactly what often happens in areas of the home near windows. You can experience hot and cold spots throughout the home that the heating and cooling system cannot address. A properly chosen home window film can help eliminate these hot spots in the summer and cold spots in the winter, making a home more comfortable all year round.
  3. Preserves Floors, Furniture & Furnishings – A home window film retrofitted to existing glass will block virtually all of the sun’s UV rays as well as a portion of solar heat and visible light. These are the 3 main factors related to sun damage and fading. By reducing this combination of 3 factors through the use of window film, you can extend the life of floors, furniture and furnishings.

We hope that this article explained why we feel might be the perfect home gift idea this holiday season and beyond. These are just a couple ways that window films can make a great gift for your home. If you have any questions or would like to arrange for a free, no obligation consultation and quote, please contact Custom Shade today by calling (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We are located in Springfield, Missouri and cover the surrounding area.

Reduce Home Energy Usage With These 4 Easy Tips - Home Window Tinting in Springfield, MO

Reduce Home Energy Usage With These 4 Easy Tips

By | Home

The news is often filled with reports that home energy prices are expected to rise significantly this coming year and how to reduce home energy usage. With these costs going up, it’s in everyone’s best interest to reduce the amount of energy we use. Not only do you reduce your carbon footprint and energy waste, you are also setting yourself up to save money on your utility bills. With that in mind, here are some of the most useful and practical ways you can save money and reduce energy usage.

4 Easy Ways To Reduce Home Energy Usage
  • Switch to LEDs – LED bulbs require an initial investment that puts some people off, but they’re a far more efficient and inexpensive solution long term. Not only do they last longer (some LEDs work for more than twenty years!), but they reduce the amount of energy you consume by up to 90% compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Plus, rather than burning out in a sudden flash, LEDs experience a more gradual decline that makes them easier to live with when they need replacement. Just by swapping out one bulb for an LED model, you’ll reduce your energy bill for that light source by 30-80 dollars over the course of the bulb’s life.z
  • Have Home Window Film Installed – This is where we come in, Did you know that modern window films are retrofitted to your existing windows and come in a variety of energy-conserving styles that reduce your energy usage by putting barriers between your home and the outside world? Professionally installed window films block nearly 80% of the sun’s heat, which can really help lower the interior temperature and the amount of air conditioning you need. In addition, during the winter, some low-e window film options help create an insulating layer on your windows to trap your home’s heat inside the house and reduce your heating bill.As a side benefit, most home window films block 99% or more of the sun’s UV rays which can help reduce the impact of cancer causing rays that damage skin as well as fade furnishings and flooring. Go with a pro who can make sure that the films are installed correctly and get you the best possible return on investment by choosing the right film for your application.
  • Switch to Time-Based Electricity Rates – To cut down on peaking power usage, some utility companies encourage customers to use electricity during off-peak hours. The energy company saves money during high-use hours and the customer receives those savings through rebates or lowered electricity rates. By using energy when others aren’t, you reduce consumption needs during busy times and help keep energy usage balanced for everyone.These programs are especially useful for people with electric or hybrid cars that recharge overnight, but it’s just as easy for people who can easily do things like run dishwashers overnight rather than during the day, for example. Also, technology like home window film mentioned above helps reduce energy usage from the sun’s heat during the peak hours you are trying to limit your consumption.
  • Kill “Energy Vampires” – Did you know that appliances leech energy even when they’re powered down? Large appliances like fridges, desktop computers, and especially televisions can be draining power even when they’re off, to the extent that as much as 20% of your electric bill can come down to this “vampire power” usage. Turns out that every appliance that stays plugged in is pulling electricity, and most appliances continuously use energy even when “off” to perform updates, connect to servers, and record data. To reduce your energy leaks, be sure to unplug all your devices that you can when you’re not using them. This is easier if you’re using a power strip that allows you to quickly flick off appliances without reaching down and physically unplugging them.

We hope this article helped you with some ways you can reduce home energy usage beginning tomorrow. Our company specializes in helping homeowners improve the energy efficiency and comfort of their homes utilizing modern window film technology. If you would like more information about home window film, click HERE. If you have any questions, call us at (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form here. We would be happy to arrange a free, no obligation consultation and discuss how you can implement a window film solution in your home. We are located in Springfield, Missouri and service the surrounding area.

Sun Faded Floor Protection Using a Home Window Film Retrofit - Home Window Tinting in Springfield, MO

Sun Faded Floor Protection Using a Home Window Film Retrofit

By | Home

Looking For a Solution to Sun Faded Floor Protection?

Furnishing a home can be expensive. Flooring, furniture and furnishings costs can add up quick. With so much invested, doesn’t it make sense to take steps to protect that investment from sun fading? While most of us love open and airy homes with lots of windows, the biggest threat to your floors and furnishings can be right outside those same windows, the sun. Sunlight is responsible for the primary causes of sun faded floor protection.

Sun Faded Floor Protection Using a Home Window Film RetrofitMost people do not want to sacrifice their views and the open feeling of their home to protect their furnishings from the sun, so what can be done? One of the best ways to attack the 3 primary causes of sun damage and fading is with a window film retrofitted to your existing windows. This article will examine exactly what causes the fading and damage to occur and how window film is a great solution to consider.

What Causes Fading and Sun Damage?

A common misconception is that UV rays are what cause sun faded floors and damage to furnishings. While UV is certainly the largest component, as the chart below illustrates, these rays only account for 40% of the causes of fading. Solar heat and visible lights are also major contributors, accounting for 25% of the problem. The last factor is comprised of a variety of this we simply put under the heading “Other”. These are things like interior lighting, humidity, etc. This article from Build Direct explains this from the angle of a flooring supplier.

The first thing this chart demonstrates is that you cannot “stop” fading completely unless the item you want to protect in a dark, climate controlled room. In real life, the most you can do is attack the primary contributors of fading in a significant enough way to slow down the fading process in a substantive way. By slowing the process, you extend the life of your floors, furniture and furnishings.

Protection from Sun Caused Fading Floors and Furnishings 5

Why Is A Window Film Retrofit To Your Existing Windows a Good Solution?

As mentioned above, most people do not want to darken their home with sun blocking curtains, blinds or drapes in an effort to stop fade damage from occurring. So, assuming the windows will not be covered the majority of the time, you need to attack the fade factors before they enter the home. The reason a window film retrofit is a great option is because it attacks all 3 primary contributors of fading. Most professionally installed window films will block 99%+ of the UV rays.

Sun Faded Floor Protection Using a Home Window Film Retrofit 3So, that removes almost 40% of the contributing factors of fading. In addition, many window films can significantly reduce the solar heat and visible light coming through the window. When you combine these factors, you can take a large slice out of the fade pie chart shown above. This protection can be accomplished while retaining the open feel of your home.

So, let’s do a quick calculation of a common home window film to show how much it can reduce fading versus a clear window. The window film being used in this scenario will block 99% of the UV rays, 68% of the visible light and 41% of solar heat. So, the fading math calculation would go as follows, (40% x 99%) + (25% x 68%) + (25% x 41%) = 66.85% Fade Reduction. As you can see, although window film will not 100% stop fading as we discussed above, by reducing the fade factors by 66.85%, you can substantially extend the life of your furniture, floors and furnishings.

We hope this brief article shed some light on what the factors of sun faded floors, rugs and furniture are and how retrofitting window film to your existing windows is one of your best options to address this issue. If you are interested in learning more, click HERE.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free, no obligation assessment and estimate, call us at (417) 823-8715. We would be happy to provide a free, no obligation consultation and estimate of implementing a window film solution in your Springfield, Missouri area home.

Great Automotive Window Tinting Benefits - All You Need To Know- Car Window Tint in Springfield, MO

Great Automotive Window Tinting Benefits – All You Need To Know

By | Automotive

Why is it important to do your homework to get the best automotive window tinting? You want to understand all the automotive window tinting benefits as well as ensure you pick the right shop to install it. In this article, we go over the benefits of an automotive tint and then how you should go about choosing a shop.

The Top Automotive Window Tinting Benefits

Great Looks

This is why many people have window tint installed. The sleek look of tinted windows improves the looks of nearly any vehicle.

Protect Your Interior

Auto tint helps protect your car’s upholstered seats. In fact, glass tinting is a great solution to spare your car from UV rays and heat from direct sunlight. Having glass tinting prevents your auto interior from getting hot enough to fade, crack and become damaged over time. It also blocks over ninety percent of the sun’s UV rays that can negatively impact both you and your vehicle interior.

Increase Safety

In the event of the accident, window tint can be a great way to keep the glass intact instead of shattering throughout the interior of the vehicle.

Add Privacy

It’s always a brilliant idea to have a low profile. Automotive tint can keep the interior of your car secure from prying eyes. Tint not only guards your personal privacy, it can also protect the valuables inside your car especially when you’re not around.

Improved Driving by Reducing Glare

Drivers are typically annoyed when the sun directly hits their face. It makes it very difficult to drive and see where you are going. Like a great pair of sunglasses, vehicle tinting can significantly shield drivers’ eyes and prevents glare of extreme light so they can see better and can safely operate their vehicle.

Keep Cool

With a fine quality auto glass tinting, you can minimize the heat inside the car by up to 60 percent! This makes the drive more comfortable and even reduces the workload on your air conditioning system potentially saving you money on gas.

How to Choose an Automotive Window Tint Installer?

Automotive Window Tinting Seattle - Everything You Should Know- Diamond Window Tinting Auburn WA

Do Your Homework

Before you begin calling shops, do a little digging around online to determine what you are looking for in an automotive window tint. Do you just want the look, or do you want the heat rejection also? Be ready to list the things that are important to you as you begin contacting shops.

Check Past Reviews and Reputation

As a rule of thumb, it is always a good idea to choose a company that has a good track record in the industry. To narrow down your choices, check out their past customer reviews and see if they have satisfied client’s needs.

Ask for Referrals

It is likely that you have a relative or friend who can refer you to a skillful auto glass tinting shop in your area. Pay attention to the vehicles of others you interact with. When you notice a job that looks good, ask them where they had it done. Someone who has had their vehicle tinted can offer great advice based on their experience and help you choose a good shop.

Talk to the Shop

Now you are ready to contact your short list of candidates. Let them know what you are looking for and listen to their responses. Ask to see some recent work if possible. Finally, go with the company that you feel the most comfortable with.

What About Vehicle Tint Laws?

There are vehicle tint regulations that you should be aware of. If you would like to learn more about the laws pertaining to auto tint throughout the US and Canada, click HERE.

If you would like more information regarding what was explained above or to discuss your options on getting your vehicle tinted, you can learn more by clicking HERE or reach us directly by calling (417) 823-8715 for Springfield, Missouri area.