Window Film Versus Window Shades

Window Film Versus Window Shades

Window Films & Tinting can add extra benefits that blinds, curtains and shades simply can't offer.

 

Deciding between installing window film or window shades might be a matter of personal preference, but when you compare their value in energy efficiency and protection, you can make an informed decision that will benefit you in the long run.

Solar Heat Gain

Shades can be effective at blocking sunlight and reducing incoming heat when they are light-colored and lowered or closed completely. In states like Florida where it’s sunny a majority of the year, shades may reduce heat gain up to 45%. Some styles though, especially darker shades, can actually absorb and trap solar heat and expel it into a room.

Because window film reflects sunlight before it enters the home, it can block up to 78% of the sun’s heat and absorb the remaining heat that isn’t reflected. This means air conditioning does not need to run as frequently, so energy bills are lowered. Additionally, the insulating properties of window film provides year-round savings by diminishing home heat loss through window glass when outdoor temperatures are colder.

Glare Reduction

When direct sunlight causes glare on screens or business displays, shades allow you to block or redirect light. This also means rooms are darker and more interior lighting is required to account for the loss of natural light. Ultimately, energy usage and cost is increased.Window film controls excessive brightness and prevents glare without forsaking natural light. As well, you are able to look out windows and enjoy views and scenery, which has been shown to increase well-being and mood.

UV Protection

Although natural light can offer natural beauty, the sun’s UV rays can be damaging to people and furnishings. Harmful UV radiation that filters in through windows can cause skin damage and cancer as well as increase premature fading on fabrics, furniture and flooring. Depending on their material, window shades may not block UV rays effectively and can actually fade or crack from sun exposure. In contrast, window film blocks up to 99% of UV rays to provide safe, natural light.

Privacy

Some businesses need to provide a level of privacy for their patrons and many homeowners do not want exposed windows that display their valuables. Window shades will close off onlookers, but the loss of natural light and views can be displeasing. The reflective properties of window film allow you to see outside during the day, but no one can see inside.

Safety

Shades may block some shattering glass from projecting into a room, but window film makes windows more durable. If someone or something breaks the glass, the film helps keep the window intact, and broken pieces do not enter a building and cause personal injury.


You can shed some light on the benefits of using window film versus window shades when you compare how each addresses saving energy and protecting self and home. Depending on your goals, you may find window film can give you more bang for your buck.


Florida Window Films is a leader in solar and security window film installations. Contact them today for a free estimate.

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Best Window Tint Percentage For Your Home or Business

A common question we get here at Florida Window Films is "Whats the best tint percentage (darkness) for my home windows?"  A window films light transmission percentage is a representation of the "darkness" of a window film, or how much light the film allows through the coated window. Understanding window tint percentages was covered in depth in our post here.

The most common shade for a home window film installation is anywhere from 25%-45% VLT

The most common darkness, or visual light transmission percentage, for a home is between 25% - 45%. It is not uncommon though to have a much darker shade (5%-15%) on windows with very high heat transmission, or where customers desire a lot of glare reduction. With the introduction of heat rejecting ceramic films we are also seeing an increased installation of higher light transmission window films (50%-70%) installed on homes and businesses for those clients who desire heat rejection and UV protection but don't need/require glare reduction, or would like the maximum light transmission without sacrificing heat rejection.

The factors involved in determining what the proper shade for window tinting in your home should be is as follows:

1. What type of windows are being coated? (i.e., double paned, tempered, annealed, laminated)
2. Is glare reduction a primary reason for window tinting?
3. Does the client want to maintain an exterior to interior view (Retail shops like customers being able to see the merchandise for window shopping!)
4. Are there any HOA or Condo association restrictions on glass coating or window tinting?
5. How much light are you comfortable blocking?
6. Is privacy an issue?

As you can see, there are many factors involved in what darkness, or window tint percentage is right for your home or business. A qualified professional window film installer will better help you understand what will work best for your conditions and requirements and help steer you in the right direction when picking a window film for your home.

Florida Window Films is the leader in window film installations in the Greater Tampa Bay Area. We have also installed safety, security, solar and decorative films nationwide. We would be happy to help plan your window film needs. Visit us at www.FloridaWindowFilms.com

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10 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Window Tinting

Window Film is a great addition to your home or business

Where do you spend the bulk of your time? Most likely it’s your home and workplace. That’s why it’s always surprising to learn that so many people spend hours a day feeling uncomfortable in the places that matter most.

Heat, cold and glare can interrupt a quiet afternoon at home or a productive day at the workplace. It can also damage belongings, waste energy and raise utility bills. There are solutions out there to reduce temperature fluctuations and energy consumption, but these options are often expensive and sometimes impractical.

Is there a better solution? Indeed there is. Solar Window Tinting.

Like tinted car windows, these thermal films are a cost effective and simple way to repel heat and block ultraviolet rays. Let’s dive right into 10 things you probably didn’t know about today’s modern window films.

1.They are quick to install and remove. Window film consists of thin layers of metal laminated between polyester. These films are cut to size and installed and can be easily removed without damage.

2. They reduce energy costs. High performance window films can reduce up to 85% of the suns solar radiation (heat) coming into a space. This drastically reduces the load on air conditioning systems in turn reducing energy consumption, and cost.

3. Window Tinting is a practical investment. When compared to custom windows, blinds and drapery, window film is far more affordable. No need for custom designs and the raw materials are much cheaper. Window film also doesn't go out of style so no need to worry about out-dated windows.

4. They remove heat and dangerous UV radiation. Window film can block over 99% of the suns harmful UV radiation, a leading cause of skin cancer. UV also plays a big part in fading. Window film can help protect your flooring, carpet, furnishings and artwork.

5. They make your home/business more comfortable. Not only does window film block up to 85% of the heat and over 99% of the suns UV radiation, It also reduces the glare. This alleviates eye strain and improves views as well inside(think about the glare on your TV) as well as outside. Window film keeps you cool and comfortable inside while allowing you to keep the view without closing off your windows.

6. Window Films have great warranties. Your drapes, curtains and blinds probably don't. Window films have warranties from 10 years - lifetime warranties which cover fading, peeling, bubbling, crazing and demetalizing.

7. They are decorative and can be easily updated. There are hundreds of stock decorative window films as well as custom cut designs available. From cut glass designs, to stained glass replicas and textured window films, there is a design for everyone. Window Film can now also be printed on which opens up design ideas and makes the possibilities endless.

8. They offer safety and security. Your windows are some of your most vulnerable points. With a high performance safety and security window tinting you can protect from glass related threats all while reaping the benefits of energy conservation and UV reduction.

9. They offer great daytime privacy. Window film allows you to enjoy the natural light of the day and maintain your view while providing daytime privacy from your nosy neighbors!

10. They are safe for kids and pets. Window films are non-toxic and are typically applied with only water and soap. No need to evacuate the house during an installation and there is no smell or fumes involved.


These are just 10 things you probably didn't know. In addition to the above, most power companies now offer rebates when you have a qualifying window film installed in your home or business. Get paid and save money!

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The Ovation Project - St Petersburg, FL Window Tinting

The new luxury Ovation Condominium development chose Florida Window Films to install a high performance window film on the penthouse windows, as well as some white-out film to block build-out over some of the windows.

Florida Window Films was chosen to install window films and tinting in St Petersburg's newest luxury tower.

At issue was heat and UV protection for the top 4 floors which houses a suite of penthouse's overlooking Tampa Bay. A spectrally selective ceramic film was chosen to keep the buildings windows uniform across all floors. Some windows were also covered with a white-out film.

Installer adding white-out film to some windows. Large construction projects require hard hats.

Ovation windows getting coated with a high performance window film. Check out that view!

The ground floor houses some commercial businesses which also called for window film coating and tinting.

Whether it's a small residential job or a huge residential building, Florida Window Films is ready and willing to complete the project. This install was completed in two days and looks great!

For more information about window tinting, window films, or to get a free estimate for your project, you can contact us here.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Home Window Tinting

Here is a great article about the advantages and disadvantages of installing window film in your home or business. As window film technology advances, a lot of the disadvanatges are disappearing, such as the advent of low-e window films making your home or business more effective in hot and cold climates.

In recent years, home window tinting has become increasingly popular in many types of home decor, especially since more homeowners have recognized the many benefits associated with tinting the windows in their homes. However, before heading to your local hardware store to inquire about types of window tinting, you should consider both the advantages and disadvantages of home window tinting.

Overall, the article addresses some great reasons to have your home windows tinted.

Read the article here and leave us a comment below on what you think the pro's and con's are.

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It's Abundantly Clear - Window Film Saves you Money

Today's window films don;t have to block light or be highly reflective to block heat and save money

For years, window films have had the stigma that in order to block heat, you also have to block all the light, or have extremely reflective windows.


Years ago, window films used to screen damaging light rays either by adding a dark color to the film, which would absorb the heat and harmful rays, or by adding metal to the film to reflect them.

"Today's technology uses absorbing metals and materials that have reflectors we can't see," said Darrell Smith, executive director of the International Window Film Association. "The harmful rays are still absorbed or reflected, but this work is done outside of the visible light spectrum."

Read the full article at the Denver Post 

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New Research Shines Light on Window Film as the Most Cost-Effective Strategy for Reducing Home Energy Costs in Florida

It's no news to window film dealers and manufacturers that window film is a cost effective way to reduce energy costs and improve comfort and safety for homeowners but a new IWFA study shows just how much homeowners can benefit from a high performance window film.

Window Film can cut energy costs by up to 30%

The IWFA study compared the installation of window film on home residences to adding ceiling insulation, air sealing, replacement of air conditioning, and replacement of heating. Out of all forms of energy optimization, the study showed that: "…internal and external window films save more energy per dollar spent than typical retrofit features. From a state energy policy perspective, internal and external window films are more effective than ceiling insulation, replacing mechanical equipment and air sealing…"

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/2026047#ixzz370BgEghX

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Window Tinting Prices, How much does it cost?

One of the most common questions we get is, "How much does it cost to tint my car, or house, or business?" This is not always an easy answer over the phone or through email. Prices will vary for different types of vehicles, as well as the type of windows in your home or business. Hiring the shop with the lowest price is (usually) not always the best option.

Window Tinting - How Much Does It Cost?

How Much To Tint My Car?

The cost for tinting your vehicle will vary depending on the year, make and model, as well as which region of the country you are in. In Florida, the average cost for a four door vehicle, with a high performance metalized window film, can range between $130-$180. This can be higher depending on the type of vehicle, condition of the windows, and season. A nano-ceramic window film can start at $250 and go up from there, fluctuating for the same reasons as above. In other states these prices can be very different so check with your local window tinting shop.

Keep in mind that there may be other costs as well, especially if removal of existing window tint is necessary. Prices for removing window tinting from a vehicle can start at $65 and go up from there, depending on condition and how much time the installer thinks it will take to remove it. Some shops charge by the hour, some offer free removal with an upgrade to a premium ceramic window film.

BEWARE of the $99 Tint Job place. These shops usually stock low quality films made overseas and  will not last very long, will fade prematurely, bubble, and generally look horrible in as soon as 6 months. Quality pays when you're looking for a window tint shop!

How Much To Tint My House?

Installing window film in your home is a cost effective way to reduce heat gain, eliminate UV radiation and provide privacy and style to your windows. There are many factors to consider when pricing a window film installation. What type of windows, condition, age, frame type, height (is a ladder or scaffolding needed), type of window tinting, and cost of doing business all factor in to the cost of tinting your home. In Florida, we typically see prices for a high performance metalized window film in the $4-$6 per-square-foot (psf) range, with our higher grade films in the $9-$12 psf range. Safety and security films are typically in the $7-$12 psf area.

As with your vehicle, other costs may arise as well. Is removal of old window tinting necessary? Add $.50-$2 psf for this service. French pane style windows are usually priced per-pane and can be anywhere from $8-$15 each.

When looking for a window film installer, do your research! Online reviews can be a big help in determining what shop is reputable. Make sure you get a factory warranty with your installation as this will ensure you are covered and that the dealer installed the film you picked out.

How Much To Tint My Business?

Commercial window tinting is usually in the same ballpark as home tinting in regards to cost. Prices will vary depending on the same conditions as above, as well as any obstacles that must be dealt with (moving desks, removing blinds/curtains, after-hour installs, etc.).

You Get What You Pay For!

Ask why the cheap guy is so cheap! Are they insured? Licensed? Are they using sub-par window films? A reputable shop will be fully insured (usually with $1 million or more in liability coverage), licensed and use top quality, professional window films. As the old adage goes, "Quality doesn't cost, it Pays!"

Have any questions about window tinting prices? Leave us a comment below!

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Revolutionary New Window Film - Geoshield Iris 70

Geoshield Window Films is working to advance window film as an energy efficient technology. We've developed a new generation of architecturally designed solar window film products that dramatically improve window efficiency without altering the look of your windows. By improving the performance of existing glass windows, you can decrease air conditioning cost and improve comfort in an environmentally friendly way. Geoshield solar control, automotive tint and safety films can improve any glass or window, and are great for your home, office building, retail storefronts, auto, or boat.

Nano-Ceramic Technology

Infrared Nano-ceramic technology has revolutionized the window tint industry, allowing Geoshield to distribute ceramic window films that is virtually clear, not shiny or dark but will reject much more solar energy than conventional metalized or dyed window tint.

Geoshield's Iris 70 is designed to block 54% of the suns heat while still being virtually clear and not interfering with your view at all.

 Rising energy costs continue to put strains on homeowners and business owners.

As energy prices continue to rise, homeowners and businesses are seeking an economical alternative to high-energy costs and the sun’s damaging UV rays. Solar heat that passes through windows may account for up to 40% percent of the cooling needs for a home or business. Geoshield Window Films can lower summer cooling costs by up to 25 percent, in turn reducing the need for more CO2-producing power plants and a smaller overall carbon footprint. By retrofitting your windows with Geoshield ceramic window tint, you are also helping the environment by keeping your old glass and windows out of the landfills at a fraction of the cost of new windows. Geoshield window films allow homeowners and businesses to enjoy their existing windows, light and views while saving money on utility bills especially during hours of peak demand.


Florida Window Films has partnered with Geoshield to offer their premium line of ceramic window films to South Florida customers. Visit Florida Window Films to get more information about our line of Geoshield Ceramic window films

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