Window tints/films can be evaluated on a number of different criteria depending on the goals of the homeowner. One window film might offer more heat reduction, while another window film might provide more privacy. Window films have many beneficial qualities, but there can be a trade-off depending on which option you choose . Knowing how to evaluate these qualities can help you make your final decision.
Energy savings can be one of the most important criteria in choosing a window film. In new homes, windows can cause about 75 percent of heat gain during the summer months, which drives up air-conditioning This heat gain can also affect your overall budget. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 45 percent of a typical utility bill is dedicated to heating and cooling. Simply adding the right film can reduce your energy costs up to 30% each month.
The amount of energy savings is dependent on a number of factors, including tree shading and location of the house, along with the type of film used. When evaluating the ability of a film to deflect heat, first you must look at what’s causing the heat. Most heat is from the sun, especially in Texas, so deflecting that heat is a must! In addition to rejecting heat, window films can also minimize fading inside and block those harmful UV rays!!
When evaluating heat reduction, it is best to rely on a trusted window tint installer, as they know the best types of film and tints to use. Fine Line uses 3M Window Films and Huper Optik Window Films, which are recognized by everyone as being one of the best window films.
Along with heat reduction, window film can also help you protect your investments. Curtains, furniture and even flooring can fall victim to the effects of the sun. One of the leading culprits in fading your valuables is ultraviolet light. To keep those home furnishings and decorations looking their best, a window film with ultraviolet light rejection would be a good choice. Many films can now block almost 99 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Ultraviolet light can not only fade your furniture, but too much of it can affect your health. Ultraviolet rays are the reason for sunburns and are also seen as one of the risk factors for cancer. For working to prevent sun-induced skin damage, several types of window film have even been given the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.
Some window films offer another benefit in the area of safety: shatter resistance. The film’s shatter resistance comes from its ability to hold glass shards together and act as a barrier between the interior of the home and the glass. Think about if you or your child broke a window, or ran into a glass door. Injuries could be minimized if the door or window was tinted!
Along with the safety benefits, window films can also help to reduce the glare on your television when viewing the big Superbowl game! While a darker film can offer more glare reduction and privacy, a clearer film offers a more natural view from the window. Darker films can also have higher values for 
. Reflectivity can be beneficial when reflecting the sunlight, but it can be less desirable when the view out of your windows at night includes a shadowed version of the room’s interior. For more information about Residential window tinting in Houston and The Woodlands, call Fine Line today at 281-364-7007! Also, check out our Residential Window Tinting Gallery.