While glass windows alone only block 40 percent of harmful UV rays, some window films can block up to 99.9 percent. Solar films also regulate indoor temperatures, so rooms stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This in turn can improve the energy efficiency of the home and help save money.
Window insulation film can mean as much as a 30% to 40% decrease in your utility bills. Window films are one way to make your windows more energy efficient. You might be able to save up to 19kWh per square foot of glass on your energy costs.
The lifespan of window film depends greatly on its quality and the materials used in its manufacture. Most window films last somewhere between 10 to 20 years. However, this time can be longer or shorter depending on the amount of stress put on the film.
Contra Vision® White 24/7 Concealed Vision™ is a one way window film that works at night. Most one-way vision films can only provide privacy during the daytime. At night the films become see-through if the inside is illuminated and blinds or curtains are needed.
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.
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.
Which Films Can Be Reapplied? Window films that are “static cling” can be removed and reapplied. However, most adhesive films will need to be discarded after they are removed as they cannot be reattached.
Something as simple as placing ornaments on your windowsill could stop people staring straight at you. Another option would be to simply buy window treatments such as blinds or shades to provide you with some privacy. These are fantastic because they entirely block the outside view when shut.
3M Sun control window films are very durable and designed to last for many years, just how long will depend on the type of film applied, type of glass, climatic conditions and care. Based on our experience, films will last 10 to 15 years.
Does window tint darken over years? Yes, most car window tints fade from 99% down to 70% within five years of installation. However, the quality of the material can affect the “fade rate.” Lower quality materials will fade faster. Higher quality materials will fade slower.
The tint on your window does appear to get darker over the first few days or weeks after installation, but the key word here is “appear”. In actual fact, the tint remains the same shade. It's the adhesive that changes.
While, some more expensive films block 99.9% UVA, UVB, and UV. Cheap window doesn't look great. The tints almost always look too dark or metallic. So you will end up both blocking out the views of your lovely San Francisco neighborhood and make your home windows look ugly.
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.
Window film won't block condensation on your windows. Since condensation is caused by air moisture and temperature differences between the glass and your rooms, more effective solutions include decreasing humidity, installing weatherstripping, and others.
At night, the window film will block about 95% of the light to give you a high level of privacy. During daylight hours, any ambient light will reflect the mirror film's surface, making it impossible to see inside. Yet, at the same time, you will be able to see outside.
Yes, it is. Older windows benefit the most from tinting as they do not have a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating that comes standard with newer windows. By tinting older windows, you will increase your home's energy efficiency by keeping heat out during the warmer months and retaining more heat in during colder months.
Does Window Tinting Film Block Out Light? If you want effective window tinting, it will block out some light. The most effective film will block out 99% of the UV light (which causes fading) and 50% of actual sunlight without noticeably darkening your interior space.
Ultimately, you can't force one-way mirror tint to work at night. It's just not physically possible if you still want to be able to see outside of the window. You can do things to make the film more reflective at nighttime—reduce interior light, add outdoor area lighting—but it will never match the sun's intensity.
Acetone, isopropyl alcohol, or a window film adhesive remover are all very effective in breaking down the glue which can then be wiped or scraped off.
Using brake cleaner is like changing your oil is by shooting a few holes in your oil pan. Sure it'll work, but it is the wrong tool for the job and will damage the part.
The more premium tint is worth the cost
While ceramic tint can sometimes cost around double the price of the other tints available on the market, its UV blocking properties and cleaner appearance is well worth the extra cost.
The brands provide similar protection against heat. All Llumar tints block 99% of UV, while some 3M films provide less than this. The 3M film is slightly better in reducing glare.