Answers to common window film questions
Straight answers about cost, comfort, safety and warranties for homes and businesses in the Phoenix area. Don’t see your question? Call us at 480-730-5566.
What is window film?
Window film is a thin, multi-layer film with performance coatings that bonds to the surface of your existing glass. It’s one of the most affordable ways to cut heat, glare and fading without replacing your windows.
Why add film to my windows?
Film upgrades the windows you already have. It keeps rooms cooler and more comfortable, cuts glare, and blocks the UV rays that fade floors and furniture. Depending on the film you choose, it can also add privacy, security or a decorative look.
How much does window film cost?
Most projects cost about $8 to $20 per square foot installed. Where your project falls in that range depends on the film you choose, the size and number of windows, and how easy the glass is to reach. That’s a fraction of the cost of new windows, and quotes are free.
How long does installation take?
Most windows can be filmed in about 15 minutes each, with little or no disruption to the people inside.
How much energy can window film save?
It depends on your glass, shading and overhangs, which way your windows face, and your energy rates. For most buildings, high-performance film lowers energy costs by about 5% to 15%.
How much heat does window film block?
Depending on the film, up to about 75% of the sun’s heat coming through the glass. That means you can enjoy large windows without the room overheating.
Does window film help my air conditioning?
Yes. Sunlight through windows is one of the biggest sources of heat gain in a building. Film that blocks much of that heat lets your air conditioning run less, which lowers cooling costs and reduces wear on the equipment. In larger commercial buildings, the lower cooling load can even allow smaller, less expensive equipment when it’s time to replace it.
Will window film make my rooms too dark?
No. Many people keep blinds and shades closed because of heat and glare. With film on the glass, you can open them and often get more daylight than before. Films range from very dark to nearly clear (letting in up to about 80% of visible light), and home films keep your interior colors looking natural.
Does window film reduce glare on TVs and computer screens?
Yes. Film cuts the glare that washes out screens and helps reduce eye strain.
Do I need film if I already have blinds or curtains?
Usually, yes. The sun fades and damages draperies, curtains, blinds and shades over time. Film blocks UV and heat at the glass, which protects your furnishings, including the window treatments themselves, and lets you keep them open.
Is window film safe for my windows?
Yes, when the right film is installed on the right glass. Manufacturers tell installers which films are approved for each type of glass, including dual-pane windows, and we follow those recommendations. Most manufacturers also warrant against glass breakage and seal failure when their guidelines are followed. Ask us about the warranty for the film we recommend.
What happens if a filmed window breaks?
The film helps hold the broken glass together, which reduces the risk of injury and damage from flying glass. For more protection, security film is thicker and made specifically for this.
Can film go on odd-shaped windows?
Yes. Our installers cut film to fit virtually any size or shape of flat glass.
How long does window film last?
Professionally installed film lasts for many years. Most residential films come with a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty, and commercial films typically carry a 10- to 15-year warranty, covering cracking, peeling, adhesive failure and loss of the metallic coating.
Are there utility rebates for window film?
Sometimes. Arizona utilities, including SRP and APS, have offered rebates for qualifying window film for homes or businesses. Programs and amounts change, so ask us what’s available when we quote your project.
How quickly does window film pay for itself?
Film costs far less than new windows, so the upfront investment is much lower. Many commercial projects pay for themselves within a few years through lower cooling costs, and sooner when a utility rebate applies.
Can window film help with LEED or ENERGY STAR?
It can. Film can contribute toward LEED credits, for example for energy performance and daylight and glare control, and its energy savings can help a building’s ENERGY STAR score. How much it helps depends on the building. See usgbc.org/leed for details.
Is there a tax credit for window film?
Energy tax incentives change often, and many don’t cover window film. Check with your tax professional before counting on one. We can provide the product specifications they may ask for.
Still have a question? Call 480-730-5566 or request a free quote.
