A Homeowner's Guide to Window Tinting Options

Solar films block UV rays and heat from entering your home by reflecting the light rays away from the windows, which in turn reduces your energy costs and helps maintain an even temperature inside your home. Most solar tints still allow natural light into the home and 

they don't block the view outside.

Solar films can reduce the heat load in your home by up to 84 percent, depending on the type of solar film you choose. There are dyed varieties or simple tints that help block some sunlight from entering the home. You can also have reflective tints applied, which do a better job of blocking UV light and reflecting heat away from your house. There are also combination films that use both dyed tints and reflective coatings. 

You have two options when it comes to solar films. If your existing windows are in good condition, you can have an after-market film applied with the help of a tinting service. Opt for interior applications since the film is less likely to suffer damage when applied inside the home. For those in the market for new windows, a better option is to choose replacement windows with an integrated solar film.

Sometimes you want to enjoy an open curtain and natural light, but the location of the window compromises the privacy inside your own home. Fortunately, that's where privacy tinting can help. Most films allow plenty of light into the home, but they also prevent others from 

You have a lot of decorative choices when it comes to privacy films, particularly if energy efficiency is not one of your goals. There are films that resemble frosted glass, which are available in a multitude of patterns. Another option is decorative tinting, which may resemble stained glass or a mosaic. Some of the tint options also provide some solar blockage, as well.

Most privacy tints and films are considered decorative only, so your choices may be limited to dyed tints if you want to also achieve solar efficiency. Generally, privacy films are applied to the inside of the glass. There are both removable options, well suited for renters, and more durable, permanent film options. 

Window films can also make your home safer, especially if you live in an area where weather events - like tornadoes - can cause property damage. Safety films can be applied to any existing window.

A broken window can result in more damage than just the glass. Shattered glass is a safety hazard that can cause serious injuries to anyone nearby. A broken window, especially one caused by a storm, can also lead to water damage inside the house. Safety tints hold the glass together so that it won't shatter inward, even if the glass cracks. Safety films are available in tinted, reflective, and clear varieties.

Although safety films are sometimes called security tints, they do not actually prevent the window from being broken. Instead, they only prevent the glass from shattering. If actual home security is your main concern, you will need to combine the film with other security 

Contact Affiliated Auto Glass to schedule an appointment so you can learn more about the tinting options available for your home window glass.