Do you want to keep snooping neighbors or strangers out of your business but do not want to or cannot install blinds or curtains on your windows? The window tint film is an easy and indistinct way to achieve that result without spending a lot of money.
According to Westside Management Company, window film is a solution that works well if you are a tenant looking for how to work around your landlord’s rules on what you can or cannot do in a rental. It also works for homeowners who like their windows free yet want to reduce the amount of sunlight coming into rooms.
Window tint film will keep harsh sunlight and harmful UV rays out of your home. Although they will let some light pass, they are not see-through, so people on the other side can’t see into your home. Moreover, they will help trap heat during winter and are appealing to the eyes.
What is window tint film?
It’s a thin film, often made of polyester applied to the interior side of window glass to make them more energy-efficient and translucent. Most window films come with a reflective surface to repel most of the sun’s heat while allowing the light to pass through.
There are several types of window tint film;
A. Solar window films
Solar films are the best for shielding the home’s occupants and its contents from harmful UV rays. They can block up to 99.9% of harmful ultraviolet rays in sunlight. Also, they are effective in regulating indoor temperature, reducing glare, and the home’s energy usage.
B. One way mirror film
These only provide privacy during the daytime. When the sun is up, they keep outsiders from seeing into the room. However, they lose this ability at night when the room is brighter than the outside. One way mirror films are best used in commercial properties or with blinds or curtains in the home.
C. Blackout film
Blackout film provides two-way privacy; people outside can’t see into the room, and the person inside the room can’t see to the outside. Blackout film will darken a room completely. They are valuable for people who work at night and sleep during the day or if a room requires darkening while the occupant is working.
D. Translucent film
These offer some privacy while also letting in a little light. People on the other side of a translucent film can still see through it, but the images appear blurred. They will keep the room bright with soft light and usually come with a patterned design.
E. Whiteout film
Whiteout film is different from other window films because you do not use them on exterior windows but to create areas of privacy within the home. If applied to a sheet of glass, it appears white on both sides. They are beneficial in the bathroom.
F. Decorative film
Although decorative films are translucent, reduce glare, and provide limited UV protection, their primary function is to beautify the home. They are the thinnest types of window film and come in a range of designs, styles, and patterns.
G. Non-adhesive static cling film
This is not a type of window film; its name describes how the film works. Instead of gluing to the glass, which could be an issue, it clings to its surface by suction. They are perfect for rental homes; renters can have privacy without breaking the lease and risking their security deposit.
How to choose window tint film
The proper tint film for your home depends on your reasons for wanting a window tint film.
1. How much privacy do you want?
If you are looking for 100% privacy, you should consider blackout films. However, if you are comfortable with complete privacy during the daytime and partial privacy at night, go for translucent films augmented with blinds or curtains. If you are not interested in privacy at all, decorative films will serve you well.
2. How attractive is the film?
Are you concerned about how the window tint film enhances the look of your windows, or is this not a factor? For instance, if you are trying to improve the appearance of old windows, your focus should be on finding the best decorative window tint film.
3. The material of the film
The type and thickness of the material are important considerations. The thickness of window tint film plays a role in its translucence, UV rays filtering ability, and durability. On the whole, decorative films are usually the flimsiest, while solar films are among the sturdiest.
4. Rate of UV rejection
The window films are valuable if your goal is to reduce sun exposure, control indoor temperature and lower your energy bill. Window films that absorb most of the sun’s UV rays will also prolong the life of the materials in the home and protect the health of its occupants. Naturally, solar films are appropriate where UV rejection is the main focus.
