Window Film FAQ
Find the answers to some common questions about window film.
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What is solar window film?
Solar window film, also called window tint, is a transparent film made of plastic or metallic laminate applied to glass windows. It is available in many different compositions with varying effects on the optical and mechanical properties of the underlying glass. Because window tint is applied to finished glass, it is easier to install and less costly than chemically altered specialty glass. In addition, the film can work in various ways depending on the needs of your space.
How do solar window film work?
Solar films are a window film application designed to reduce heat and save energy. The film also blocks UV rays that can damage your skin, eyes, and furniture. It can go on any window from your home to your office to your car.
The solar window film works like a reflective surface that bounces back the sun?s rays?preventing the rays from entering your home or business space. Some solar films can even block up to 99.9% of UVA radiation and absorb rays if they?re not reflective.
Can it save money on my energy bill?
Yes. Solar window film is an effective way to save money on your energy bill for commercial or residential spaces. This exceptional film reduces the heat that enters a room during the summer. In addition, it helps keep the heat in during the winter. The energy savings impact can be tremendous.
Does solar film reduce heat?
A benefit of solar window film is its ability to reduce the amount of sunshine that passes through a window. This reduction of solar energy reduces the transference of heat and can make a room remarkably cooler, up to 8-10 degrees in some instances.
Is window film removable?
The SPARRA team can remove any window film without damaging your glass surface. Window film is not easily removable. You don?t need to worry about it falling off over time. When properly maintained, window film will last several years in residential and commercial settings.
If you are looking to have the window film removed, SPARRA recommends contacting a professional company to do the work to ensure no damage is done to the glass. The process of eliminating window film requires a scraper blade that can scratch your glass easily. Our installers have been trained and have the proper tools to remove the window film without scratching your glass.
How is solar window film eco-friendly?
According to the Pew Center on Global Climate Change, heating and cooling systems in buildings produce significant greenhouse gas emissions.
Further, the report states, ?Increasing window performance and the insulating properties of the building envelope will reduce the demands upon the HVAC system and will allow HVAC equipment to be downsized, enabling efficiency improvements and cost savings.?
How do I choose a solar film?
Choosing the proper solar film has a few factors, such as reflective light, what direction your property is facing, and more. Window film options vary based on the different needs. Here at SPARRA we will guide you through the process and explain which film is suitable for your property.
How much does it cost?
Window film prices vary based on the different categories of window film and the type of window film that you are having installed. It is generally based on the square footage of glass your project has, and just, so you get an idea of numbers, on average, solar film can cost anywhere between $6/sqft and $18/sqft. Our sales representatives will be able to go into further detail about pricing when they meet with you and can show you different samples of what you are interested in and what they cost.
How do you install solar window film?
The installation process starts by prepping the windows, moving things out of the way, and thoroughly cleaning the windows. You then cut the film to the size of the window and spray the window down with water. After that, you put the solar window film on the window and cut it to size to ensure everything is aligned and fits right. You then squeegee all the water out and allow up to 30 (or even 45) days for the film to fully dry.?
How long does installation take?
Each film installation varies, but SPARRA can install the film in one day in many cases. When scheduling an appointment with a professionally trained solar window film installer, mention any time constraints. We understand your needs and will adjust the project, including material ordering and lead time, to fit your schedule to the best of our ability.
Is the installation messy?
Not when professionally trained solar window film installers install it. The SPARRA team respects your property and exercises extreme care when installing window film in private homes or commercial spaces.
Does solar window film go on the inside or outside?
Most solar film is installed on the interior of windows in both residential and commercial settings. Therefore, most of the products are made for interior installation. However, exterior solar window films are available for residential and commercial settings.
How long does solar window film take to dry?
The drying process can take as much as 30 (or even 45) days to dry and cure thoroughly. If your newly installed solar window film shows evidence of water bubbles, don?t panic; that is very normal and part of the drying process. The moisture gets trapped under the film and will evaporate as the film cures to the window over the drying period time. It is important not to touch or press on these bubbles as it will prolong the drying process and damage the film. Take a look at SPARRA?s care instructions.
How long does it take for solar window film to fade?
Solar film generally lasts several years without fading. However, the location of the solar window film does play a factor. If you are in sunny areas like Las Vegas, the solar window film might fade quicker than in San Francisco or Seattle. The direction of the windows could also play a factor. If the windows are in direct sunlight the whole day, the solar window film might fade quicker.
Can my pet damage the film?
We are pet lovers, too, and some of our pets have been trained to signal to their owners when they need to head outside. But, over time, pawing on a glass door covered with solar film will cause damage.
What is UVB & UVA?
UV radiation is part of the natural energy produced by the sun. UV light has shorter wavelengths than visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum, so your eyes can?t see UV, but your skin can feel it. Tanning beds also emit UV radiation. Two types of UV light are proven to contribute to the risk for skin cancer:
Ultraviolet A (UVA) has a longer wavelength associated with skin aging.
Ultraviolet B (UVB) has a shorter wavelength and is associated with skin burning.
While UVA and UVB rays differ in how they affect the skin, unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB damages the DNA in skin cells, producing genetic defects or mutations that can lead to skin cancer (as well as premature aging.) These rays can also cause eye damage, including cataracts and eyelid cancers.
Can I get nighttime privacy with solar window film?
You can get daytime privacy with window film, but the current solar window film products on the market don?t allow for nighttime privacy if the lights are on.
What Are The Different Types Of Solar Window Film And Their Purpose?
Carbon Window Films
Unlike metalized window films, these window films don?t come with reflective purposes. This makes them non-reflective windows that come with a matt-finish, making them great for windows that don?t require total privacy. Beyond that, carbon films reflect most of the heat, infrared light, and UV rays. These rays are hazardous and harmful to your skin, making carbon films suitable for every home. Having carbon film in your home also means that the temperatures will be better regulated. The film will keep heat away and retain it in colder months. These window films protect curtains, furniture, and carpets from sun damage.
Low-E Window Film
Low-E film is a coated plastic film, available in rolls, which sticks to the insides of your windows to block or slow the transmission of UV rays. Low-E means ?low-emissivity.? Low-E films usually contain metal or metal oxide as the material that counteracts the UV rays. Manufacturers often state that low-E films reflect between 70- and 80-percent of solar heat gain in the summer or conserve over 50-percent of interior heat in the winter.
Ceramic Window Films
Ceramic window films are the most expensive, and for a good reason. Instead, they don?t contain any metals, dye, or carbon and are made using micro-ceramic particles. Given the properties of ceramic, these window films are non-reflective and non-conductive. Once installed, they cut a massive chunk of the UV rays that get into a home and reflect infrared light. Ceramic films will also outlive all other types of window films, and it features better glare and fading resistance. Even better, ceramic films enhance the strength of the windows due to the ceramic particles, which makes the windows almost shatterproof.
Metalized Window Films
Metalized window films are among the best types of window films. Metalized window films are not made using dye but with tiny metal particles. These micro-metal particles are designed to reflect heat and light away from the windows. One of the best things about this film is that the metallic layer reinforces the film and increases the window?s strength. These metal particles are not visible, but they make the film reflective on the outside, creating a mirror effect. If you?re looking for a window film that enhances maximum daytime and nighttime privacy, metalized films are a great choice.