Does Insulation Film Work? Despite the controversy following any DIY homeowner solution, both window companies and repair gurus consider insulation film to be effective. It really works, and it can increase a window's insulation for many months.
Not only does the window film keep heat inside when it's cold outside, but it has the opposite effect during hot summer months. Insulating window film blocks out the sun's heat while keeping a room cool by retaining the air from cooling equipment in the room.
An insulating window film applied over a window can help the window retain up to 55 percent more heat in winter, potentially reducing your heating costs up to 30 percent. These films are less effective at reducing summer heat gain, though.
It's true, window plastic only prevents 55% of drafts from getting into your home. While that'll definitely low your energy bills, it's not doing much and could be improved upon immensely. It goes to show you that window shrink was made to be a band-aid not a solution.
3M™ Thinsulate™ Climate Control Window Film helps keep the warmth in during the winter and the cool conditioned air in during the summer -- keeping the weather out where it belongs – all season, every season. It helps reduce cold/hot spots, improving overall comfort throughout your space.
Can I install 3M Window Film myself? No, 3M Window Films require professional application; only authorized 3M Window Film Dealers are thoroughly trained and experienced in performing high quality work. In this way, our customers will enjoy the benefits of 3M Window Films and have the comfort of the 3M warranty.
3M window tints are considered the top-choice by made car manufacturers and providers. The quality of the product ensures that you will be getting a valuable commodity that can make the difference for your vehicle in the long-term.
You measure your window glass, cut the film to size and apply it to the glass. For an even cheaper DIY option, some people apply cling film to the windows, and then seal it with tape or the heat of a hair dryer.
Peel the paper from the tape across the very top of the window. Hold up your measured and cut plastic so that it frames the window with the 5″ of excess around each side. Pull the sides taut and press the plastic sheeting onto the taped frame. Press firmly so that there are no gaps where air could escape.
Using Plastic Window Film
The film, which looks similar to cling film, is applied on the inside of the window. Putting the film on the outside would only expose it to weathering elements, so by putting it inside, it's better protected.
Window film can cut utility costs by 30% to 40%, says California-based consultant Donna Wells, and at $6 to $14 per square foot, it's much cheaper than replacing windows. Solar films block 99% of UV light that fades furniture, and with better technologies, now do it without looking reflective or dark.
How do window films work? 3M™ Window Films let in the light you love while reflecting much of the sun's heat away from your home, so you can stay cooler in the summer. At the same time, they block up to 99% of harmful UV rays - without blocking your view.
Under the right conditions, quality film for windows can last for as long as you own your home. Many homeowners have gotten 20 years or more out of their tinting systems.
Plastic window film covers can reduce drafts and make your home feel warmer during the winter. They are also a relatively inexpensive way to reduce condensation buildup and lower energy bills. Window wraps can also seal air leaks around the window, when those leaks extend over woodwork.
Putting cling film on single glazed windows does in fact help to reduce energy loss. By providing a second barrier to heat transfer, it creates a very basic – and inexpensive – 'double glazing' system.
Because clingfilm is a good insulator, this charge persists for quite a while. When you wrap the clingfilm around itself or another insulator (like glass) the electrostatic charge induces an opposite charge in the other surface and the two stick together.
When warm, moist air comes into contact with cold window glass, water droplets form on the window's surface. Plastic film stops the formation of condensation on the interior of your window glass by creating a barrier between the air and the glass.
The Best Window Cleaners for Window Film
Common cleaning solutions, including ammonia-based products like Windex, can be used to clean the surface at least 30 days after application. Invest in lint-free towels instead of wipes or paper towels that may scratch your film.
Reality' Reality: While window film does a tremendous job in reducing the amount of fading caused by harmful UV rays (blocking 99% or more), solar heat (cutting up to 82%), and visible light. It cannot eliminate 100% of the deteriorating effects of the sun.
The Reasons Why 3M Crystalline Films Are So Expensive
3M Crystalline combines a total of 200 layers in its film but is still thinner than a piece of paper. The thin coating doesn't deter its strength though, as it still rejects heat and light from entering the vehicle.
While all security films improve safety by preventing flying glass shards from causing injuries, thicker films can boost security against burglars. The thicker the film, the longer it takes to break out of the window frame—8- and 12-mil films are the best choice for impact protection.
Decorative films can block UV rays at 80 percent to 90 percent and provide some privacy benefits. However, they typically don't provide significant heat protection.