In 2018, the value of the global film market was $9.2 billion. The high demand for the product results from its ability to reduce glare and provide protection against UV rays.
Homeowners who’ve had enough of weak, energy-inefficient, and old windows can turn to window tinting for homes for a solution. Few other solutions are more effective and economical when it comes to reducing power bills, improving safety, and enhancing the curb appeal of a home.
Given the numerous window film options available in the market, choosing the ideal window tinting for your home can be somewhat confusing. The fact is that not every window tinting is worth your investment.
So, how do you go about a home window tinting project? How can you tell that a specific type of tinting will meet your particular needs?
In this friendly guide, we’ll tell you all you need to know about house window tinting, so it’s easier for you to make an informed decision.
Generally, window film comes in three types. Each of these types is installed for a specific reason.
Firstly, there is solar window tinting, which is perfect for homeowners looking to boost energy efficiency. This type of tinting is moderately thick and can absorb up to 99% of UV rays from the sun. Solar window tinting regulates indoor temperature, reduces glare, averts fading of your furnishings, and boosts indoor comfort.
The second kind of tint house windows is installed for safety and security. It’s the thickest of the three types of window film. If deterring burglars and preventing storm damage is your top concern, then opt for this kind of tinting.
Decorative window film is the third type of window film and is meant for adding visual appeal to a room. It’s the thinnest of all window film and comes in various appearances.
What kind of window glass have you installed in your home?
Window glasses can either be basic flat, heat-treated, or insulated. Each of these three types of glass absorbs heat differently. Therefore, when you’re installing window tinting, it’s essential to consider whether the film will place thermal stress on the glass or not.
Security and decorative window tinting block little heat, placing minimal thermal stress on the window glass. The two types of tinting are thus suitable for any window glass.
Solar film has a comparatively high heat absorption rate and can increase the thermal stress of glass, resulting in cracking. Experts recommend that you avoid installing this type of film in basic flat window glass that has an absorption rate of over 50 percent. Also, don’t install solar window tinting in insulated glass that has had seal failures or is over ten years old.
Of course, you can always check the manufacturer’s direction whenever in doubt so you know whether a particular window tinting is compatible with your window glass.
On average, US homeowners pay an energy bill of around $111 per month. So how can you reduce that figure and keep your power bills low? You can start by working on the energy efficiency of your windows.
How old are your windows? Older windows typically lack low-emissivity coatings whose purpose is to block out the heat. Such windows experience the most dramatic improvement from window tinting.
Windows made in the last few years, on the other hand, typically come with low-emissivity coatings for higher energy efficiency. The level of energy efficiency and comfort is therefore not dramatically increased by applying window film, although decorative film can make these windows much more appealing.
One of the top benefits of residential window tinting is that the project isn’t unnecessarily difficult. You can, of course, leave the job to a seasoned window tinting professionals, but if you’re a DIY enthusiast, then this is a project you’ll enjoy.
So how do you go about tinting home windows?
Start by wiping them down with a lint-free soft cloth dipped in a solution of baby shampoo and bottled water. Next, cut a window film using a utility knife, ensuring that it’s half an inch longer and wider than the specific windowpane you intend to tint. After that, remove the adhesive backing from the window tint and gradually stick it to the window pane from top to bottom.
While adhering the film to the windowpane, glide a plastic squeegee in one direction across the surface of the film to expel any air trapped in the film. Allow the film to cure, which typically takes four to eight days.
There are, of course, certain pitfalls associated with tinting your home windows yourself. These include wrinkles, bubbles, dirt, scratches, or streaks of cleaner appearing under the film. If you’re afraid of these pitfalls, it’s best to opt for professional installation.
How long would you like your window films to last?
All three types of window films are available in three options when it comes to permanence. There are temporary varieties that are easy to remove or reposition. Most decorative films tend to be temporary.
There are also semi-permanent varieties that are removable but will leave some residue from the film adhesive behind. Then there are permanent window tinting varieties that aren’t designed to be removed. Security and solar film are typically semi-permanent or permanent varieties.
Temporary film solutions are great for renters as they won’t be staying in the same building for a very long time. Permanent and semi-permanent window tinting, on the other hand, is most suitable for homeowners.
As homeowners continue to look for practical ways to improve their homes, the popularity of window tinting for homes will only go up. For those who’ve already adopted the solution, the effectiveness of window tinting when it comes to energy efficiency, security, curb appeal, and convenience is unquestionable.
If you would like a window tinting solution that’s perfectly suited to your needs, contact us today for a free quote.
