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Most commonly asked questions about window films

Window Films and the Frequently Asked Questions

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Most Commonly and Frequently Asked Questions.

Most commonly asked questions about window films

How long does window film take to install?

Luckily, professionally installing window film is a smooth process and depending on the size of the panes or the amount of windows that need to be filmed including having the film pre-cut to size, installations can be completed most times within a day. Glass preparation is a vital part of the installation process and exact measurements must be taken. The glass must be cleaned thoroughly and must be free of dirt and debris. The preparation and being meticulous is the foundation of the installation process and shouldn’t be rushed.

Do I need to remove curtains/drapes?

No… curtains and drapes usually remain. If there is a special concern for delicate drapes, it may be advisable to have your drapery installer remove and rehang the drapes.

What do I need to do prior to a window film installation?

If you can, move any furniture that is up against the windows to be filmed leaving a space of approximately one metre so that we can get to the glass for preparation and installation. If this is difficult, we can do this for you if we can. Also, move any personal items near the window or on window sills. We will cover everything with drop cloths. to protect the surrounding areas.

Do we have to move out during the installation?

No, Installing window film involves no odours or chemicals and can be installed during normal hours with minimal disruption. If there is a concern, special arrangements can be made for weekend installations.

Do you use chemicals to apply window film?

No, we use a non-toxic application solution specifically designed for the installation of window film to activate the films adhesive. If harsh products are used to activate the adhesive (washing up liquid etc.) this will gradually degrade the adhesive on the film, as these washing liquid products are designed to break down grease from dishes and should not be used. Some installations from less experienced installers use washing liquid to reduce the costs and ease of convenience.

What kind of warranty do you give?

We are fortunate to offer products that come with a residential up to lifetime product warranty and up to 15 years for commercial customers direct from the manufacturer. Warranties include total film replacement, including labour and materials. This warranty assures that you will be completely satisfied with our products for the entire time you occupy your home or office.

Will my film peel, lift or bubble?

No, all of the films that we use are warranted against peeling, bubbling, de-laminating etc. If you have noticed the edges or corners peeling or lifting, this would be because the film hasn’t been installed correctly from day one, or the film could be an inferior product and the adhesive is not adequate enough to be applied to the glass. If you have noticed window film bubbling this is due to older films and the adhesives that were used (generally automotive) that when the adhesive heats up it releases gas which in turn, de-laminates from the glass. The more modern films do not do this.

Does window film stop condensation?

The short answer is no. Condensation is formed where warm meets cold and is the process where water vapour becomes liquid. It is the reverse action of evaporation, where liquid water becomes a vapour.
Condensation happens one of two ways: Either the air is cooled to its dew point or it becomes so saturated with water vapour that it cannot hold any more water. Condensation on the interior of windows and doors occurs when warm humid air comes into contact with cool glass which is why it is more common in Winter. If you cook, clean, bathe, or breath or if the underneath your home is damp this will all contribute to the humidity in your home.

The way to reduce condensation is to aerate areas, open windows on a double latch and to do this even in bedrooms before pulling the curtains closed (ensuring window security is in place), use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen or use a dehumidifier.
In most situations, especially in Winter, it is very common to close everything up, draw the curtains, refrain from opening windows or don’t use fans or dehumidifier. When condensation is present it can draw on a heat source using more electricity, the higher the humidity, the more difficult it is to heat or cool a home which will also cause mould. We have seen countless situations where condensation is present on many types of windows, even on double glazed units.

See more on condensation https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/condensation/

Does the film go on the inside or outside of the glass?

Film is applied to the interior surface of the existing glass. In some cases such as walls half-way up in front of the glass or hard to reach areas, specific external film can be applied. At any time that the film needs to be removed (some cases where a commercial building has to go back to the original as part of a lease agreement) the film can be removed without damage to the glass. Please be aware that it would be recommended for a window film installer remove the film as there are techniques that need to be followed to minimise pressure and damage on the glass.

How do you attach the film to my glass? Will it be messy?

Attaching window film is carefully applied directly to the glass using specific mounting solutions. The first step is to thoroughly clean the glass and frames. The film has an adhesive already applied at the factory and protected by a release liner, which we remove prior to installation. There are no odours or chemicals used. A measured amount of mounting solution is used with water. This activates the adhesive and allows the film to applied and aligned before using a squeegee to set up the film to glass. When installed properly, there are no bubbles, creases, corners lifting or any distortion. The film is cut right up to the edge of the window which is minimal and normally undetectable.
There will be no mess left behind. We use towels and tarps to protect the surroundings. Minimal solution is used. In special cases, such as silk drapes, we use plastic taped to the area to give extra protection. Regular drapes and window treatments are not affected and usually can remain in place. Upon completion, the area and window has a further clean, furniture is placed back and all rubbish removed and recycled.

Do I need to wash my windows prior to my window film installation?

No, We will prepare each window thoroughly prior to installation.

How to maintain your tinted windows.

Professionally installed window film can have a product life of well over twenty years if properly maintained. There are a few key points to keep in mind when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your window film.
The day of installation of new window film the glass/film shouldn’t be cleaned for approximately 30 days after the installation, this will allow the film to dry and bond to the glass. As the film has just been installed you should have streak free glass and would not need cleaning prior to the 30 days.

Once the film has cured to the glass, the film can be easily cleaned by using a small amount of water and a soft cloth (micro fibre). do not use ammonia based cleaners. Ammonia can damage the top clear surface of the film.
Cleaning and care instructions should be given once the window film has been installed.

What is the window films durability?

Today’s window films have greatly improved over the many years we have been in business including the durability of them. Just like going from an old black & white TV to the latest OLED model. There are many window film manufacturers that offer outstanding warranties for home-owners and commercial installations (in most cases it’s not transferable) and depending on the film type being used, glass type, window construction, and the location of the building, professionally installed window films can last well past it’s predicted warranty period.
Most factory warranties will cover issues such as;
Peeling, Bubbling, Rippling, Adhesive failure. See; “Will my film peel, lift or bubble” in FAQ.
Since 1981 from when starting window film installation we’ve seen many projects and window film types over the years and while the warranties offered with these products are extensive, some other factors should be considered in terms of their lifetime and durability and the main thing is how it is taken care of and the areas it has been placed. For example if the film is placed externally and exposed to various elements throughout the year it will not last as long as film placed internally, also including if using harsh chemicals and cleaning tools to clean the product verses using just water and a soft cloth.

What is not covered?

Almost all window films come with extensive manufactured warranties that cover the failure of the product prematurely. However, they do not cover things such as wear and tear, scratches, or damage caused by the home-owner or user, abrasive cleaning methods, or inferior cleaning products.
Window film manufacturers apply a scratch-resistant coating on almost all of their films. It’s applied to the top of the film during the manufacturing process. Its purpose is to protect the film from minor abrasions and cleaning. Some window film manufacturers take more time and effort to make better scratch-resistant coatings which in turn increases the durability and lifespan of the window film.

How long does window film last?

As we discussed previously, there are many different types of window film for various purposes. Not only do these window films serve different purposes they’re also made of different materials which affect the lifespan of certain products.
The length of time that window film lasts also varies depending on the application. Some factors are; Interior or exterior applications, the orientation of the installation, if the windows are vertical or horizontal, such as skylights and atrium windows, has the window film been correctly installed with the appropriate installation methods and solutions?
These are just some of the factors to consider when determining the lifespan of a window film. In most situations, you determine the estimated lifespan by examining the window film manufacturer-backed warranty.

Cleaning is another factor of your window film lifespan. The correct cleaning process must be used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions, if an abrasive cleaner is used, the window film will most certainly deteriorate and would not be covered under warranty.

Can I install window film myself?

While some do-it-yourself projects give individuals the satisfaction of a doing a job while reducing costs, applying window films can be very costly if done incorrectly. This can range from glass scratching, incorrect film chosen for the glass type causing glass failure, incorrect application solution, bubbles, peeling, creasing not to mention damaging a piece of film while trying to install it, and no warranty once applied.
Although you might be tempted to make this a DIY project, it’s a good idea to get a professional installation for your window film. Professionals will install the film correctly the first time, and you won’t have to worry about damage or air bubbles on your window and it comes with a manufacturers warranty once installed.

Another benefit of professional installation is the expertise. A professional will know which type of window film should be applied to your specific glass type, which minimizes the risk of damage / failure.
Engaging a dedicated professional window film installer will make your life easier when it comes to the installation process and end result. We often get engaged to re-install our product after a DIY attempt from purchasing cheap window film from a building supply chain.

What types of glass can you install window film on?

There are a wide variety of glass on the market today and not all window films are compatible or recommended for every type of glass, there are many factors to take into consideration when applying window film to glass and engaging a professional installer will advise what the best film to install to the situation required.

Types of glass available:
Single float glass, Toughened glass, Laminated glass, Low E glass, Double glazing, Triple pane.

Types of window frames:
Wooden, Aluminium, PVC, Steel.

Understanding glass and it’s parameters and the films specifications will determine what film can be used as almost any kind of window or glass can be treated with window film.

The key is selecting the right window film, as not all window films are compatible or recommended for every type of glass. It’s as simple as that. It’s best to contact us for help with recommendations. We are able to help you select the correct product for your glass and and for the purpose required.

Window tints

Variety of Window Films available

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There are a wide variety of window films and depth of tints available including different manufactures and where they are made.

Prestige by 3M:

Prestige is 3M’s top of the line window film. These specialized collection of window films include no-metal technology and affords superior heat rejection with lower than glass reflectivity and film options that allow most of the light into your home for maximum protection, and won’t interfere with mobile phones, GPS and satellite radio signals interference.

Enjoy the benefits of exceptional performance window film without the drawbacks.

Reflective film:

Reflective window film is a versatile solution that helps control the negative impact of sunlight by reducing heat, glare, and UV light. With its mirror-like finish when viewed from the outside, reflective window film not only provides aesthetic appeal but also offers enhanced security with daytime privacy. When viewed from the inside, it presents a stylish finish while still allowing light to fill the space.

Reflective window film is one of the best performing and most widely used solar control window films for homes and offices which also attends to a reduction in air conditioning costs and hence a reduction in energy costs which also creates a more comfortable environment and can reduce tiredness and eye strain.

Dual Reflective film:

Dual reflective film works much in the same way that ordinary reflective film does. It’s called dual-reflective window film because both sides of the film offer benefits. The primary difference is that dual-reflective window film is designed to offer reflectivity for privacy during the day and with the inner layer of film which helps to improve visual clarity at night if you have night views.

Neutral film:

Neutral window films minimize changes to glass appearance maintaining crisp, colourful views to the outdoors. This film offers a unique combination of low reflectivity and medium performance. It has a neutral grey colour due to its metallic metal internal coating which will not fade or change colour and also has a hard clear top coating for ease of cleaning and added durability. With its heat reduction and glare control properties, it creates a comfortable and productive workspace. Experience the exceptional performance of this semi reflective film, providing optimal functionality while maintaining a stylish appearance without sacrificing the amount of natural light coming into a room.

Spectrally Selective film:

The spectrally selective film have been engineered to allow the maximum transmission of visible light while rejecting the maximum amount of UV and Infra-Red wavelengths and differs from the more conventional solar films. These window films permit some portions of the solar spectrum to enter an area while blocking others while allowing as much daylight as possible and prevent the transmission of solar heat.

Insulating film:

Low-E window films, such as 3M Thinsulate Climate Control Window Film, can achieve similar insulating abilities of Low-E glass at a fraction of the cost. When applying the 3M Thinsulate Climate Control Window Film to a single-pane window, it improves the insulation to be comparable to that of a double-pane window, and a double-pane window to that of a triple-pane. Not only does it improve insulation in the cold winter months, but it also reduces solar heat gain in the summer, leading to energy savings year-round. If your windows aren’t in need of replacing, installing Low-E window film eliminates this expense as it’s applied directly onto existing glass windows or doors, making the installation a smooth and easy process which also achieves substantial energy cost savings and has a potential payback on investment which can be less than three years!

Safety or Security film:

In addition to films that protect from light and heat, films are also available to protect from accidental or intentional impact. While glass may still break after an impact, the Safety or Security film is designed to keep the glass in place. In the event of a storm or an earthquake, this reduces the risk of injury due to flying or falling glass. In the case of an intruder break-in, criminals may be deterred if a window or glass door does not instantly break / shatter gaining immediate access.

Anti-Graffiti film:

Anti-Graffiti film is an optically clear film that is applied to the surface of glass which would be at most risk of being vandalised from etching or spray paints. Once damaged or becomes very unsightly it can be removed and replaced leaving the glass free from damage and not needing to replace glass. Commercial, industrial, and government facilities can benefit from anti-graffiti film in particular buses and trains. Anti-graffiti film can help reduce the time and resources needed to remove graffiti manually and/or replace glass.

Frosted and Decorative film:

An installation of a frosted or decorative film allows you to transform your glass surfaces into real frosted glass to create privacy day and night or to have a barrier for meeting rooms. It is the ideal solution for modifying the windows of your home or business. The advantage of frosted window film is that it creates a barrier without losing brightness and allows a soft and diffused light to pass through for more comfort. The decorative films available can be for a patterned look or have it printed with a colour or have an image printed and applied to the glass. Frosted or decorative window films can provide privacy while also being an appealing addition.

Window tinting

Main Benefits of Window Films

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The main benefits of window films and their functions and performances

  • Energy Efficiency.
  • Attending to Temperature imbalances.
  • UV Protection.
  • Fade Control.
  • Aesthetics.
  • Safety & Security.
  • Privacy.
  • Frosting & Decorative.
  • Glare Control.
  • Environmentally Friendly.

Energy efficiency.

One of the biggest benefits of window films, particularly in homes or commercial buildings, is energy efficiency and window glazing is one of the largest contributors to a buildings energy consumption. Home owners are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their energy consumption and environmental footprint. Window film helps reduce energy costs and beyond the immediate financial benefits, the reduced energy usage contributes to a greener planet by lowering overall energy demand. Window tinting aligns with sustainable living practices, making it an Environmentally conscious choice for home owners who value both cost savings and environmental preservation. To view a PDF of the 3M energy information view > focus your energy on productivity https://multimedia.3m.com/mws/media/1145162O/3m-commercial-window-film-energy-efficiency-brochure.pdf

Window films enhance your overall living experience to control uncomfortable hotspots and chilly areas. Most buildings can suffer from huge solar heat gains one side of the building whilst on the other side can be suffering from heat loss.

3M Low-E Window Films are designed to retain heat during the winter and cool air during the summer so you can save on heating and cooling costs all year round. These films also help provide increased insulation performance, much like upgrading a single-pane to a double-pane window, and a double-pane to a triple-pane window. https://www.3mnz.co.nz/3M/en_NZ/building-window-solutions-nz/solutions/energy/

A single-pane window loses twenty times as much heat as the same area in an adjacent well-insulated wall (Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University)

Nearly 40% of heating loss in commercial buildings is due to windows (U.S. Department of Energy)

3M Low E coated insulation films can offer the benefits of solar control films by reducing incoming solar heat, whilst also reducing the heat loss through glass in the winter. These films can achieve substantial energy cost savings and have a potential payback on investment in less than three years!

Temperature Imbalances.

Window film helps to eliminate troublesome temperature imbalances inside your home or building. Those uncomfortable cold or hot zones from shaded or sun-exposed areas can be a thing of the past. The right window film helps to minimize temperature fluctuations and make your rooms a pleasure to spend time in. You’ll also find that the window film will pay for itself as your energy costs are reduced.

Window film can control the overall unwanted interior heat from the Summer sun, and retain the heat in Winter whilst still allowing the radiant heat to be transferred into a room for free energy. Residential and commercial window tinting offers a solution to this challenge. Window films help maintain a more stable and pleasant indoor environment. No more feeling chilly near windows during winter or sweltering in the summer heat.

UV protection.

UV reducing window films will reduce Ultra Violet light by 99%. Discolouring, deterioration and fading of furnishings and other items can occur when they are exposed to sunlight. Causes of fading are made up of UV light, heat and visible light. Over 80% of these 3 causes can be eliminated by installing our UV films and can be installed as an ultra-clear film so that it is virtually undetectable once installed or combined with solar properties to offer even more benefits

UV protection films are ideally suited to homes and offices, especially where people work in front of or near glass, and is also suited to museums, shop fronts and conservatories, not only to reduce fading but also to reduce the health risks involved with harmful UV rays.

All of our window film products, whether designed for residential or commercial, contain the highest levels of UV protection. This allows the films to reject up to 99% of harmful UV rays. Even during everyday activities like driving your car, standing or working by a window, you will be exposed to harmful UV rays. Think of window film as sunscreen for your home or office. Window films are giving you a layer of protection from potential skin cancer and visual impairment.

Fade control.

Window tinting acts by protecting your furniture, carpets, upholstery, and artwork from the damaging effects of UV rays. By filtering out a significant portion of the sun’s harmful radiation, window films help maintain the vibrancy and integrity of your interiors.

Fade and UV control – Fading is a common problem and can adversely affect clothing, upholstery, carpets, flooring, furniture, and artwork. Our solar window films are suitable for homes, offices, museums, shop fronts, art galleries or any area where issues of fading can be potentially costly.

Our films are specifically designed to filter out 99% of harmful UV rays that lead to sun damage and may also lead to skin cancer.

Main sources which lead to fading are:

  • Ultraviolet light – (we neither feel it nor see it, but it is the main factor in causing fabrics and furniture to fade).

  • Visible light – (the part which enables us to see).

  • Infra-Red – (the part which we feel as heat).

  • Chemical vapours – (when things heat up from the sun for example carpet or paint, which gives off chemical vapours that you probably don’t detect)

  • Material age.

  • Dye fastness.

  • Miscellaneous (including indoor artificial lighting and humidity).

However, fading caused by internal factors such as some indoor lighting, humidity and poor quality fabric dye (anchorage) cannot be reduced by the use of window films.

Our window films are available in a variety of tones, from ultra-clear films, which are virtually undetectable, to tinted or reflective films which have the added benefit of reducing the infra-red and glare if required, with performance levels and appearance to suit every situation.

It is important to note, that no solar window film or glazing product will totally prevent or stop fading. Applying a solar window film can significantly reduce the fading process and prolong the life of fabrics, furnishings, art etc.

Aesthetics.

By choosing a product that complements the existing elements of your building, window film can enhance the existing appearance and can help to create a modern and uniform appearance to the glass.

Many buildings, residential and commercial, can be transformed into striking examples of attractive architecture with the application of a tinted, reflective or decorative window film. Whether it’s a contemporary look or a uniform design that is desired, there’s a variety of window film options that can aesthetically enhance the exterior of your home or office building, and there’s a range of shades to give you the look you desire.

Windows are the heart of your home or building, and today’s’ modern architecture has evolved to incorporate our natural desire for more natural light. However, the increased natural light also has a downside – the increased solar heat, a larger amount of Ultra Violet entering a room or the loss of heat in Winter . While visually appealing, the building could now become uncomfortable to be in. The application of window film will not only maintain the natural light and crystal clear views, but it will also attend to the energy management and the overall improvement of occupant comfort, and with a wide range of window film shades available, this allows you to choose a look that complements your architectural style and personal preferences.

Safety or Security

Safety or Security window films can improve the safety and security of your home or office. If you’re having an upgrade on your home or office and need to have code of compliance to meet Council requirements for glass upgrade, we can meet these requirements and provide the necessary paperwork for approval.

Safety or Security window films offers greater safety and more security when it comes to glass, which is why we have ranges of Safety & Security window films for both residential and commercial clients. Whether you need to safeguard against intruders or a film that keeps your store-front safe and free of vandalism or smash and grabs, we have the solution you need to protect what matters most. With the best quality materials and professional installation, you can be confident knowing your people, property, and information are safe and secure, giving you the freedom to work, play, and live free from worry.

Safety or Security films are applied to the internal surface of the existing glass in your property adding a layer of protection without the need to permanently alter structures, making it a cost-effective solution for adding security without adding unsightly bars that can also deter customers and detract from the display in the window.

Safety or Security window films will keep the glass in your home or office from shattering immediately upon impact, reinforcing the glass making it considerably more difficult for intruders to gain access.

Get peace of mind when it comes to the security of your family and your home or office.

Privacy.

Adding daytime privacy to your residential or commercial property, using privacy window films that can also include controlling solar heat build-up, excessive Ultra Violet and glare within a living or working space.

Both convenient and affordable, privacy window films can be installed to obscure the transparency of your windows, making them private from outside onlookers, while still allowing light to shine through and protecting your privacy while still enjoying your view looking out.

The Installation of a solar window film on the glass throughout your living space will provide the following benefits of:

  • 99% UV Block. (all window films)

  • Privacy. (selection of films)

  • Glare Reduction.

  • Fade Protection.

  • Energy Management (Summer & Winter).

  • Aesthetic enhancement.

  • One-way daytime privacy films that come in a range of solar window films from light, medium to deeper tints, or a tinted or reflective external look. 

  • For night time privacy there are Frosting and Decorative films and patterned designed films available. See here for more information of Frosting and Decorative films.

Frosting and Decorative.

Frosted and Decorative films are cost effective as well as creatively flexible and functional as a feature or as a privacy barrier for night and day. There are a wide range of frosted or decorative films available that will compliment any situation including balustrades, front entrances, glass partitions etc. Create a bespoke sleek look and creative design or logos for your home or business.

In addition to increasing privacy and indoor comfort, decorative films are an aesthetically appealing veneer on your windows. Not only can this provide day and night privacy, it gives you virtually limitless opportunity to customize the appearance of your windows. Decorative films come in several different colours and patterns that can be used to display company branding or customized for your space with unique designs, prints, or textures. With decorative films, you can dress up any room while still allowing light to enter a space.

Decorative films can include architectural film finishes that matches a certain aesthetic and custom wall coverings with unique designs or corporate branding.

Frosted films are films that give your windows a frosted glass or translucent appearance that keeps onlookers from seeing into your space while allowing light to pass through. Our 3M frosted films are incredibly tough, long-lasting, and made to withstand moisture and water, making them perfect for bathrooms, shower screens, kitchens, bedrooms, offices, conference rooms, and other high-traffic locations.

Another decorative product available is Squid a beautiful and practical product. Squid’s unique texture is a result of its production technique. The fabric is woven with polyester threads to give it a soft, warm feel. Squid is a self-adhesive, transparent fabric that enables you to see out during the day, but largely restricts people outside from being able to look in. Squid can also be printed with a variety of printing techniques, giving designers new commercial and marketing opportunities to explore. Its versatility and simplicity have already made it a big hit in the interior design and architecture markets.

Glare control.

Glare can be year-round and with the bright sunshine of Summer and the low-lying position during Winter months, excessive glare can make an area uncomfortable, including increased eye strain that can cause headaches. Glare controlling window film can reduce glare, whilst maintaining the view without having a great impact on the natural light entering a room.

Excessive and uncontrolled bright sunlight can make it difficult to focus or see, and this can cause visibility issues like eye-strain, migraines, general discomfort and other problems. And the older you get, the more sensitive your eyes become to the potential glare associated with sunlight. If you’re struggling with glare, but don’t want a limited view in a dark room, an anti-glare window film would be the answer. It offers an effective and easy solution to these problems, along with numerous other advantages.

Available in a wide range of protection, this cost-effective and viable solution can be customized to meet appearance and performance level needs to suit every taste. Glare reducing window film allows light to pass through the glass keeping your room filled with light, but significantly reduces the amount of glare. This means that you get all the benefits of light and a view without the negative side effects, such as headaches, squinting or blurriness.

Environmentally friendly.

As we are all becoming mindful of the increasing environmental awareness, every small choice can make a big difference. Residential and commercial window tinting is a step towards more sustainable living and reduction of your carbon footprint.

By lowering your energy consumption, window tinting contributes to decreasing the demand on energy resources and lowering power bills. This has a ripple effect on power generation, leading to reduced emissions and a more sustainable energy landscape. The reduced strain on power grids benefits all our community by promoting energy efficiency and stability. By installing window film, you’re actively participating in a collective effort to conserve energy, create a greener future and take care of our planet.

What is Window Film and the performances

What is Window Film and the Performances?

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Enhancing comfort, aesthetics, and energy efficiency of your home or office space.

What is Window Film and the performances

Window film is generally made of polyester or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). An architectural grade window film is made of multiple layers of PET and infused with natural metals or ceramic coatings (to reflect or absorb energy), adhesives, UV inhibitors along with a tough clear top coat to protect against scratching. This window film technology is impressive and with multiple benefits from a single piece of window film that’s applied to existing glass.

Every type of window film uses a polyester film as its base material and are used successfully in a wide range of applications other than window film due to an excellent combination of optical and physical characteristics. Polyester base films have unequalled strength and toughness while providing excellent stability when exposed to various temperatures, moistures, and solvents during the window film manufacturing process.

When it comes to enhancing the comfort, aesthetics, and efficiency of your residential or commercial space, window tinting emerges as a remarkable solution. Beyond its visual appeal, residential and commercial window tinting offers advantages that can transform the way you experience your home or office environment.

When professionally installed and depending on the depth or the amount of reflectivity on your chosen window film, it will both reflect solar energy for Summer whilst also absorb some of the radiant energy from the sun transferring it into a room for Winter.

In a sense, window film is an insulator much like the insulation you have in the walls ceiling or floors keeping an area cool in Summer and warm in Winter. In addition to protecting your home from outside energy, window film will also help retain any energy generated by your heating and air conditioning systems.

Window film has changed greatly over the years, and like anything, technology of making these products has evolved to the superior films available today. Now there are films that have natural metals infused within the polyester layer so it’s colour stable, right through to 3M thermal films that will attend to heat loss in Winter making them perform to almost a standard double glazed unit and placing thermal film on double glazing will bring it an almost a triple glazed unit.

There are also cheaper films still on the market today that have older technology of a dyed coating to produce varying tint shades, these films whilst great in day, don’t last the distance as they have a tendency to change colour over time (going purple) also, if you need to replace a piece of film in two or more years with the same type of film it will not match in colour or shade, and depending on the depth of film they have a tendency to increase heat within the room that your trying to cool or regulate.

The latest stable metallized based products are the best performing, won’t discolour and come with a manufactures residential product lifetime warranty for most films and up to fifteen years commercial.

Window film is commonly used to reduce the amount of sunlight that passes through the glass to control glare, heat and fading and depending on the film type will also attend to daytime privacy.