
Installing window film could void your window warranty. Unless your manufacturer discourages it, you can usually apply them to all three common types of window glass-annealed (basic flat glass), heat-treated (annealed glass that has been exposed to high temperatures), and insulating (consists of two layers of glass with an intervening layer of air or gas)-with minimal risk of damage to the window glass.ģ. Most security and decorative films block minimal heat and therefore don’t place much thermal stress on the windows.
#Tinted window shade windows#
Not all types of window film are compatible with all types of window glass.Īs noted in the section above, different types of window film absorb varying degrees of heat, which some windows are equipped to handle and others… not so much. It’s sold as a clear or bold colored film in a variety of etched patterns (such as stripes), stained glass motifs, or opaque frosted designs that keep out peering eyes.Ģ. Decorative: As the thinnest of all types of window film, decorative window film absorbs or reflects minimal heat its primary purpose is to beautify or add privacy to a room.In the event of a storm or a home intrusion that results that damages the window, they do prevent the window from shattering completely by restricting the damage to a large crack, in effect allowing your window to hold out longer.

Most security films (usually clear or silver) don’t absorb or reflect much heat.
#Tinted window shade install#

The film is usually sold in neutral tones ranging from silver to copper.

This regulates indoor temperature (so rooms stay cool in summer and warm in winter), reduces glare, prevents the fading of interior furnishings, and, ultimately, increases indoor comfort and energy savings. Thicker than decorative film but thinner than security film, solar films absorb or reflect (most products do a combination of both) up to 99 percent of UV rays from the sun. Solar: This option is recommended if improving energy efficiency is your main reason for tinting home windows.
