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June 3, 2023Is window film really a good idea, or can you get away with standard windows? Standard windows aren’t always enough, and window film is recommended for home and office windows that deserve that extra bit of protection from harsh weather conditions or damage. While not every window needs it, many homeowners and businesses are choosing to install window film for safety reasons.
Should You Install Window Film?
Here’s what you should know about window film, just how easy it is to install, and exactly why some people consider it essential.
What is Window Film?
Window film is a plastic film that is made to attach to your windows, like a laminate covering that goes over the glass and tightly fits the window. Usually, windows don’t ship with window film and it’s something that you have to install after the windows have been installed. People choose window film applications because they can break down potentially harmful UV rays.
What is Window Film Made From?
Window film is made from a plastic compound known as Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), that’s used in packaging materials, as well as in textiles and fabrics.
PET is used because of the way it can diffuse light, and also for its strength and durability. The good news for consumers of PET products is that it also reduces the cost of the product as a whole.
How Does Window Film Work?
Window film attaches to the window like a laminate, where it seals against the window providing an extra layer of protection against UV rays and other types of environmental damage (heat and light)
There are different types of window film, some of them vary in the shade for protection against light, and other types vary in thickness for protection against any other potential types of damage that might affect the window.
It doesn’t take a professional to install window film to block harmful UV rays, and it’s not an expensive process. Installing window film takes just a few minutes and some measuring.
What is Window Film Good For?
Window film is first used to protect against potentially harmful ultraviolet rays, which can damage fine fabrics inside your home. The sun can do a lot of damage when directly amplified by window glass, and interior or exterior window film can help to prevent this from happening.
Interior and exterior films also help to regulate the temperature of a building in a more effective way. When window film has been applied, the heat can be diffused through the building rather than be amplified by windows.
For industrial buildings, window film has become standard – although many homes are still catching up, and there are many readers who are only coming to see the benefits of window film on their windows now.
Does Window Film Do Anything Else?
Yes!
One of the great things about window film is that it’s also versatile. This is important because there’s one more important thing you can expect window film to do: it can protect the window against light impact.
Window film can stop the window from taking a direct hit that may have shattered it, and sufficiently protect the window – and even strengthen the window enough to withstand the impact.
This makes window film popular in areas where there are high rates of storm damage throughout the year and areas where there is a lot of traffic or potential for damage.
If you live in an area prone to storms (like the Midwest), you can’t afford to be without window film and its added layer of protection.
It’s one of those things you’ll be glad to have if you ever need it, and might regret not having if you don’t.
What are the disadvantages?
While window film can offer several benefits such as reducing glare, UV protection, and energy savings, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. These include:
- Limited effectiveness: Some types of window films may not provide sufficient protection against heat or UV rays, depending on the climate and the quality of the film.
- Installation difficulties: Window film can be tricky to install correctly. Improper installation can lead to bubbles, creases, or other cosmetic issues that may affect the film’s performance.
- Reduced visibility: Some window films can reduce the amount of natural light that enters a room, potentially making it feel darker or less inviting.
- Cost: High-quality window films can be relatively expensive, particularly for large windows or commercial properties, which may limit their practicality for some applications.
While window film can offer several benefits, it’s essential to carefully consider the potential disadvantages and whether they may outweigh the advantages in your specific situation.
Different Types of Window Films
Heat-Control Film
This type of film reflects the sun’s heat and reduces your home’s overall heat gain. It keeps your home feeling cooler and can help reduce the need for air conditioning. This film is also effective at preventing heat loss during winter and blocks 99 percent of UV rays from entering your home.
Decorative Film
Decorative film comes in various patterns and colors, providing an attractive way to enhance your home’s aesthetics while still allowing natural light to enter. It also offers daytime and nighttime privacy while maintaining visibility.
Privacy Film
Privacy films are effective in blocking UV rays and keeping unwanted eyes out of your home. Mirrored and black privacy films provide daytime privacy while allowing you to see outside. Frosted privacy films, on the other hand, are translucent and reduce visibility during the day and night, but are not as effective at blocking the sun’s heat.
Glare-Control Film
Glare-control film prevents glares on computer and television screens, making viewing more comfortable without the need to close blinds. It’s popular in living rooms and offices and can also reduce heat gain through your home’s windows. When applying glare-control film, it’s best to install it on the inside of single-pane windows and on the outside of double-pane windows.
Learn more about Low E Window Film
North Country Windows & Baths in Lincoln, NE, and the Surrounding Areas
At North Country Windows & Baths, our Windows are backed by a Lifetime Warranty giving our customers peace of mind. Each window is custom-made to fit your home with state-of-the-art engineering by design, and energy efficiency enhanced by style. Our windows are made to last for years of maintenance-free beauty.
We offer low-E glass home windows. Here are a few benefits:
- Energy efficiency: Low-E glass helps to minimize heat transfer through windows. In cold climates, it reduces heat loss from the inside of the house to the outside, resulting in improved insulation and lower heating costs. In hot climates, it reflects a significant amount of solar heat, preventing it from entering the home and reducing cooling costs.
- UV protection: Low-E glass can block a significant portion of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which helps protect your furniture, carpets, and other belongings from fading or deteriorating due to prolonged sun exposure.
- Enhanced comfort: By reducing heat transfer, low-E glass helps maintain more consistent indoor temperatures throughout the year, leading to increased comfort for occupants.
- Glare reduction: The reflective coating on low-E glass can also help reduce glare from direct sunlight, creating a more comfortable and visually appealing indoor environment.
- Condensation control: Low-E glass can also help reduce condensation on windows. By reflecting the heat back into the room, the glass surface temperature is closer to room temperature, minimizing the likelihood of condensation forming.
Whether you want a soaker tub surrounded by subway tile or a low threshold shower with granite-like walls, you can customize your BathWraps space and even add accessories like soap dishes, caddies, seating, grab bars, and more Contact us today.