about 3 years ago

Window film is a thin, scratch-resistant material, typically made from polyester or vinyl. It is attached to the inner side of the window, and may be bonded together in layers in order to achieve the desired results. The film is only millimeters thick and, if colorless, can be virtually unnoticeable on the window surface.

Window films were originally invented to provide greater temperature control. However, window film today can also be used for security, privacy, or aesthetics, and also blocks the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, thanks to chemical UV blockers to the film.

Here are some of the different types of window film, as well as how they work.

Static Cling Film: Typically made from vinyl, this is usually an aesthetic treatment applied for privacy reasons, though this type of film can also be used to prevent glass from shattering. These can be easily installed by the homeowner, but offer only minimal protection from heat and UV rays.

Dyed Film: After UV blockers are added to the base, a dye is added to the film to block heat. The dye prevents heat from permeating indoors by deflecting the heat to the glass, where it can be cooled off by the movement of the air outside.

Deposited or Metallised Film: To create deposited film, the base material, typically polyester, is passed through a vacuum in which metal particles are deposited on the film's surface. These metal particles enable the film to deflect UV radiation. The thicker the metal coating, the more opaque the film becomes, and the more effective it is at deflecting harmful UV rays. This type of window film also may have a reflective surface that significantly improves privacy.

Hybrid Film: Some films contain both dyes and reflective metals, and with this combination, a wider variety can be produced. Contrary to popular belief, darker windows may not reject the most heat; a darker tint is mainly for privacy or aesthetics. Adding dye to deposited film increases clarity and reduces its reflective properties, and adding a metallic coating to dyed film makes it more opaque.

Window film is a good way to add aesthetic appeal to your windows and bring greater comfort and energy efficiency to your home. There is a wide variety of colors to choose from, some of the most popular being amber, bronze, gold, and gray. With so many options available, window film is a smart addition to any home.

C. Robinson is the owner of The Tint Guy, an Atlanta tinting company, providing the best automotive, residential, and commercial window tinting Atlanta has to offer. Founded in 1986, the company now has three "brick and mortar" locations in the metro Atlanta area. The Tint Guy is the only full-service 3M window film dealer in Georgia, providing expert sales and installations of the complete line of 3M window films.