Publication date: 07/09/2010

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Window films can block worst of sun's heat

Everyone is trying to keep cool and comfortable this time of year. One of the best ways to maintain your comfort level in the summer months is to keep the blazing hot sun from pouring in through your windows. But no one wants to replace every window in their home.

For an easier and more economical solution, consider window film. It is just like adding sunscreen to your windows. And with window films, you can choose what windows are protected and the level of protection you want.

Better replacement windows feature low-E glass that helps refract heat and filter out ultraviolet rays. Like low-E glass, window films reflect the solar heat and ultraviolet radiation that can cause fading of your furniture or carpeting.

Window films are available in a variety of tints from very light to extremely dark. Ed Golda, president of Michigan Glass Coatings, (800) 999-8468, www.michiganglasscoatings.com, a distributor and installer of 3M's Prestige line of window films, said the darker the tint, the more of the sun's heat you can block. But not everyone wants the darkest tint.

In fact, premium window films, such as 3M's Prestige line, have a solar energy reduction quotient of up to 78 percent. That can really reduce your air conditioning bill and make you more comfortable. Another benefit of high-end window films is that they reduce glare up to 93 percent.

"When you have a very dark window film, it does block more of the sun's heat, but it also can make your room darker, so many people opt for a lighter tint that still provides good sun blocking capabilities while allowing in sufficient light," Golca says.

Look at three factors when considering window film: the amount of ultraviolet radiation rejected, solar energy reduction and visible light transmitted. Window films can block as much as 99 percent of UV rays. The higher the solar reduction number, the more of the sun's heat the film blocks. The higher the visible light transmitted number, the more light you will get through the window, but remember that it won't block heat as well as a film with a lower number.

Some premium window films also need to be professionally installed. Ed Golda says that a premium window film runs between $8 and $14 per square foot, while more traditional window films range in price from $4 to $8 per square foot. Window films can be applied to either single or double pane windows, doorwalls and skylights.

Do-it-yourself fans can take a look at Decorative Films LLC, www.decorativefilm.com. Their SOLYX: ULTRABLOCK-15 reflective window film offers a 78 percent total solar energy reduction similar to 3Ms. Wallpaper for Windows, www.wallpaperforwindows.com, (800) 320-8439, specializes in decorative window films in 12 colors that are designed to match the decor of a room. They also have films with the look of either stained or etched glass while providing you with some level of energy efficiency.

In addition to window films, another option to consider is see-through solar shades. Solar shades come in both interior and exterior applications, and exterior solar shades can decrease the heat energy coming into the home from the sun's rays by as much as 15 degrees. Locally, solar shades are available at Marygrove Awning, (734) 422-7110, www.marygrove.com.

Once you do the research and whittle down your choices, remember that your windows are also your only boundary to the blustery winter weather. You might want to consider an option that reflects escaping heat back into the house when those frigid temperatures reappear later this year.

Note: This article was accurate at the date of publication. However, information contained in it may have changed. If you plan to use the information contained herein for any purpose, verification of its continued accuracy is your responsibility.

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