A Guide To Residential Window Films
Adding window film to your fixtures is one of the most cost effective and quickest ways to instantly increase the energy efficiency of your home. There are many different types of residential window film that are more beneficial for certain climates. This article explains the benefits window films and how to install them.
Window Films for Sunny Climates
Of course, the most common window films are tinted and reflective to combat the sun. They are meant to reduce the sun's effect on your home. That is, a window with tinted film reduces the rate at which the sun's heat is transferred into that room. This is a major advantage for homeowners in hot areas.
Window Films for Cold Climates
Some people mistakenly think that window films are only useful in hot, sunny environments. Actually, window film is also very helpful for cold climates. It can help to reduce heat loss through your glass panes. It definitely makes it easier to control the temperature inside your home during both the winter season.
Window Films are Easy to Apply
Perhaps the best part about window films is that they can be applied by the homeowner quite easily. That is, you don't need to be a professional to install window film as long as you have glass cleaning supplies, a razor blade, and the film product.
Basically, if you want to clean your window as well as possible and make sure there is no dirt on the surface. Then, you apply the film on to the glass. The key is to use the provided squeegee to rub out any air bubbles. You push the corners down as tight as possible and then use the razor blade to cut right along the frame of the window. Once the edges are trimmed away, you will need to push the corners further down. This is basically all you have to do for the installation.
An Extra Step for Added Protection
You can make your film more durable by using some silicone caulk. Applying silicone caulk around the edges of the film, where the glass meets the window frame, might be helpful. It can prevent the film from peeling away from the glass overtime. This is an extra step that might not be necessary, but it is a good precaution to take if you want to ensure your film last for a long time.
Window films are cheap, easy to apply, and definitely worth the small investment.