FAQ's: Residential Window Tinting
San Diego / North County / Encinitas
1. Does window film stop fading of furniture and fabrics?
Window tint is a home owner’s best line of defense against the ravages of the sun on the furniture and fabrics. The biggest contributors to fading are ultra violet rays, visible light and heat. These factors make up approximately 90 percent of the causes of fading.
- Clear single pane glass (1/8" to 1/4") will reject 23-28% of the ultraviolet light from the sun.
- Insulated glass is slightly better, rejecting 36-41%.
- Window films installed on glass reject 99.9% of solar ultraviolet light.
There are no window films that completely eliminate fading. Window film can, however, provide maximum protection from fading due to solar ultraviolet light and solar heat.
2. Will the application of window film help my cooling costs in the summer?
Yes. Window films are designed to reject up to 79% of the sun's total solar energy. This means that the more glass you cover that receives direct sunlight, the more heat you will prevent from entering the room. Remember, the film blocks solar heat and does not affect the ambient air temperature.
3. Will the application of window film help reduce my heating costs in the winter?
Our residential window films are designed to reduce solar energy. Proper insulation and windows and doors are the best way to reduce heating costs. Because window film is an insulating product, a side effect is the re-radiation of some heat escaping through the glass.
4. How do I clean my windows after film is installed?
Windows with film applied are easily cleaned without damage to their appearance by using a soft clean cloth and an alcohol- or vinegar-based cleaner.
5. What is the life span of window film?
The effective life span of window film depends on the types of film, glass, and climate. There are documented cases of film lasting 12 to 22 years or more in some instances. Our manufacturers back all qualifying residential installations with a free lifetime warranty. Please call Sun Solutions for more details about manufacturer warranties.
6. Isn't Window Film Expensive?
The average installation costs less than most other window treatments. Actually, your investment in window film will return dividends in the form of reduced air conditioning and heating costs, and protection against costly fading.
7. Can window film be applied to all kinds of glass including double-pane?
Window film can be applied to most clear or tinted windows including insulated glass. However, some restrictions and limitations may apply. Window films are designed for application to glass only. Sun Solutions will help you choose the right films to suit your needs.
8. Will window film make my house seem dark inside?
Technological advances in window film allow you to enjoy virtually clear, un-tinted and non-reflective glass with all the fading and heat protection offered by darker, reflective films.
9. How will window films affect my plants?
Medium and light density films may slow the growth of common household plants for the first several weeks while the plant adjusts to the presence of the film. Following the films application, plants usually require less watering and this may result in a healthier plant overall. Most plants will thrive, with
window film, because they won't "burn" on sunny days