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How Does Window Film Work?

How Does Window Film Work?

When residents are looking into energy-efficient solutions for their home or business, they often find an option for their windows. 25% to 30% of all cooling and heating efforts are lost through the window. Window replacement is an effective option but requires a lot of time and money. The return on investment for new energy-efficient windows is typically ten to fifteen years, making window film a viable option for many. Window film can be quickly installed and costs a fraction of the price. One of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our clients is, “How does window film work?”

The Window Film Installation Process

Window film can be installed on any glass element of your residential or commercial property. Uninsulated, outdated, and single pane glass can be the culprit to high energy costs. Window film contractors clean the glass surface beforehand, making sure your glass is ready for installation. By using a straight razor, our contractors are able to remove any debris or grime that has built up over the years. We take a proprietary soap mixture and apply it to your glass. Window film can either be pre-cut beforehand if we have your dimensions are cut on-site. We typically cut everything to size on-site in order to mitigate communication errors. After window film is applied to your prepped glass, we use a squeegee to get rid of any bubbles. Our experienced contractors make sure everything fits perfectly and are trained to perfectly fit any odd-shaped glass or work around items that may be in the way.

The Science Behind Energy Efficient Window Film

There are four basic window film types that are generally used across energy-efficient window film. These film types are in between the adhesive and hard coat on your glass.

Metalized Film

Metalized film utilized metal nanotechnology for superior solar performance. Metalized films have moderate durability and lower visible light transmissions. Metalized film will change the appearance of your windows, offering a darker tint. Metalized films are recommended since they are more cost-effective and provide better solar heat rejection. The only downside is that they do have a darker tint that isn’t desired by all homeowners.

Nano-Particle Film

Nano-particle film is often used in night series window films where nighttime views remain uncompromised. Nano-particle film offers more visible light transmissions than metalized film but is still pretty moderate when compared to others. It also provides moderate solar performance and higher durability than metalized film.

Spectrally Selective Multilayer Film

This more expensive option utilizes multiple layers of spectrally-selective film for a product that addresses solar performance effectively without compromising visible light transmissions. Spectrally-selective film also has a much higher durability and product lifespan when compared to metalized and nano-particle window film.

Exterior Spectrally Selective Multilayer Film

Most energy-efficient window film products are installed on the interior of windows. There are some products that are installed on the exterior of glass. Spectrally selective multilayer film installed on the exterior offers even better solar performance than films designed for interior surfaces. With high visible light transmissions and great solar heat rejection that’s similar to metalized film, this is a more costly option. The durability is moderate, offering similar product life as nano-particle film.

Energy Audits and Finding the Right Solution for Your Fort Collins Property

With three major variables in play (solar performance, durability, and visible light transmission), it can be difficult deciding which product is right for you. Having an energy audit completed is a great way to find accurate ROI estimates and better understand your current energy usage. Our experienced window film contractors are here to help with in-depth product recommendations.

Work with Fort Collins’ Trusted Energy Efficiency Experts

Window film is such an effective technology that can help anyone save money. Our energy efficiency experts are here to help you get on the right track. For more information regarding how window film works and energy-efficient options, please contact us!

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