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Commercial

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

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 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.

Feb 01
0
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.

Jan 18
0
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.

Mar 15
0
UV Protection For Your Home or Office? Learn Why It's Important. - Home and Office Window Film and Window Tinting in Springfield, Missouri

UV Protection For Your Home or Office? Learn Why It’s Important.

By | Commercial, Home

Have you ever thought about the need for UV protection in your home or at the office? If not, keep reading. This article explains why it is important and how a professional window film can help.

First, what are window films?

Window films are thin sheets of material that are applied to the surface of windows to provide a variety of benefits, including UV protection.

How do they help with UV protection?

Here are some of the benefits of using a window film for UV protection in a home or office.

  1. Blocks Harmful UV Rays: Window films can block up to 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. This means that it can help protect the people inside the building from the damaging effects of UV rays, such as skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin disorders.Check out this article from The Skin Cancer Foundation that states, “Both UVA and UVB rays can cause sunburn and tanning, which damage the DNA in your skin cells and increase your risk for skin cancer. UVA rays also cause the unwelcome signs of premature aging, including dark spots and wrinkles. Those UVA rays account for up to 95 percent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface and are quite good at finding you. They can bounce off reflective surfaces like water and, most relevant during the workday, they can penetrate window glass. If you’re sitting next to a window on a sunny day, those UVA rays hitting your skin are doing damage. (Window glass filters out most UVB rays.)“
  2. Preserves Interior Furnishings: The same UV rays that harm human skin can also damage interior furnishings and fabrics such as carpets, curtains, and upholstery. Window film can help protect these items by blocking the UV rays that cause fading and discoloration.

Overall, window film is a practical and effective way to provide UV protection for a home or office. By blocking harmful UV rays, window film can help create a healthier and more enjoyable indoor environment.

If you would like more information on the UV protection of our home or office window film offerings, click HERE. 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.

Oct 12
0
Improve Facility Operations With Commercial Window Films - Commercial Window Film and Tint in Springfield, Missouri

Improve Facility Operations With Commercial Window Films

By | Commercial

This past year has really changed the way that commercial spaces are being utilized. In light of these changes, it is imperative that building managers take steps to operate the facility more efficiently and make their space stand out from the crowd. FacilitiesNet had an article that discussed how commercial window films could improve facility operations, and we wanted to summarize the findings below.

3 Ways Commercial Window Films Improve Facility Operations

  • Reduces Energy Costs: When window film is installed, the stress on the HVAC system is greatly reduced. Film keeps the cool air inside during summer months and limits heat loss during the winter months. These benefits can ultimately result in lower utility bills for facility managers.
  • Improves Safety Measures: Windows and doors are any building’s main point of entry, even for those who are uninvited. Safety window films can help reduce property loss and damage in the event of a burglary attempt by making it far more difficult for criminals to penetrate the building through glass doors and windows. Also, in the unlikely and unfortunate event of a natural disaster or extreme weather event, safety and security window film will help minimize damage to property and occupants.
  • Increases Productivity for Occupants and Preserve Furnishings: Window film lets in natural daylight, but blocks 99% of the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays, and up to 82% of the sun’s heat. Sun beaming in through the windows can be harmful to the building’s occupants and damage the furnishings. Window film can solve these problems, making it easier for employees to get their jobs done comfortably while protecting their skin and the interior furnishings.

We hope that you found this information enlightening and useful. If you would like to see the source article at FacilitiesNet, click Here

If you are interested in learning more about commercial window film, click HERE. 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.

Sep 01
0
School Security Vulnerabilities - Window Retrofit Targets Weakness - Safety and Security Window Film in Springfield, Missouri

School Security Vulnerabilities – Window Retrofit Targets Weakness

By | Commercial

As children across the country begin heading back to school full time, a mainstay of the news has become school safety and what can be done to protect students and staff. While a great deal of the safety is focused on COVID related modifications, many of the upgrades being discussed and implemented across the country also have to do with school security vulnerabilities as it relates to student safety.

It is very unfortunate that physical school security has become a primary topic of conversation, but it is part of the reality of the world in 2022. It sometimes is difficult to discuss school security and student safety strategies without appearing to have an agenda or be trying to sell something. While we are sensitive to this, we also feel that it is important to share information that can have a positive impact on potential incidents in the future. This article is designed to illuminate the topic of glass being one of the greatest school safety vulnerabilities.

School Security Vulnerabilities - Window Retrofit Addresses Weakness 2Liz Crawford wrote a piece recently titled “Is Your Child’s School Safe? Examining The Top 3 School Safety Vulnerabilities“. In this article, she noted glass as being one of the top three vulnerabilities because of the extensive use of tempered glass in schools. She, along with Craig Gundry, Vice President with Critical Intervention Services, discussed and said “Another common security vulnerability in schools is extensive use of tempered glass glazing. Tempered glass shatters into small pieces and Gundry believes one gunshot into the glass will make it easy for a gunman to enter the building. Critical Intervention Services estimates a gunman can get into a school in roughly nine seconds if confronted with tempered glass.”

Gundry also said, “One of the reasons tempered glass has historically been much more common in architectural design as well as indoor environments is because of the price. It is less than half the price typically of laminated glass,”.

School Safety Vulnerabilities - Window Retrofit Addresses Weakness 3While it is true that we see this specification in schools regularly, there is good news. This school safety vulnerability can be addressed by retrofitting existing tempered school glass with a security window film. When someone tries to gain access through the glass of a protected door or window, the security window film would allow the glass to break, but it would maintain the glass in the frame. While this film / glass combination can eventually be penetrated to gain access, the objective is to create resistance that slows the entry down. The goal is by slowing the entry down that will be giving school officials and local authorities time to respond to the threat.

If you would like more information or have any questions about how security window films can help address school security vulnerabilities, please contact us by calling (417) 823-8715 or fill out a form HERE. We would be happy to provide you with a free property assessment and estimate on retrofitting security window film in your Springfield, Missouri area school.