We came across an article in Sciencing Online Magazine about the pros and cons of a sun control window film for your home. We thought this article shared some interesting information and we wanted to summarize it here.
The article begins by defining what these films are and what they are typically used for. The author writes “Solar window films were designed to control problems, mostly excess heat and fading from ultraviolet light exposure, caused by direct sunlight through home or office windows. These films are considered “retrofit” products that alter existing after-market windows and circumvent the need for new, upgraded window units.”
Pros & Cons of Sun Control Window Film For Your Home
Pros of Home Window Films
The author discusses a variety of films that can be used for the home, but summarizes her findings as follows. These films “can absorb and reradiate long-wave infrared heat, improving heat retention in the winter and lowering energy costs. Others reflect heat to the outside, minimizing summer heat — reducing central air conditioning bills and prolonging the life of heating, ventilation and air conditioning units. The same films can reduce glare and block up to 99 percent of harmful UV radiation from entering a home or office. The newest solar films have the capacity to be clear instead of tinted and can block out as much as 55 percent of summer heat while retaining heat in winter.”
Cons of Home Window Films
Regarding the cons, the author paints a fair view of all films, but does distinguish between some films available for DIY application from the professional window films that we offer and install. She notes; “Some films may not provide the advertised benefits or may begin to peel after a few years — though a quality film, professionally installed, may last 12 to 22 years. A film with a dark tint may significantly affect the view for people inside the house, while a film with a shiny outer coat can give windows a dark or shiny external appearance — or make the glass appear colored due to reflection of some bands of visible light. Many homeowners associations prohibit such alterations in appearance. In addition, the application of window film voids some manufacturers’ warranties on windows, so check the details of any existing warranties before applying window film.”
It should be noted that professionally installed window films are checked specified to not create issues with the existing glass. In many cases, a window film manufacturers warranty can replace part or all of a window manufacturer’s warranty that might be voided if a film is applied.
Other Considerations
The author finishes up by listing some other considerations when considering a home window film. She mentions to “Choose a film that has been tested and certified by an independent third party. Third-party testing verifies that films meet health and safety standards — like fire safety, glass fragment protection and human impact safety — as well as energy performance standards. The National Fenestration Rating Council has certified more than 250 films for energy efficiency.”
We hope that this summary of the article was helpful if you. If you would like to check out the complete article, click HERE.
To learn more about these pros and cons and all of the other things a sun control window film can do for your home, 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.