Solar Film FAQ

Exterior heat control window film applied to large office windows for internal heat reduction installed by Window Film Systems

Q:

What is solar window film?

A:

Solar window film is a self-adhesive film that can easily be applied to windows, doors, or glass panes. Solar window film is a thin polyester layer that is tinted or may be reflective in nature.  It’s designed to reflect and protect against the harmful effects of the sun. Solar window film can help to reduce energy costs, reduce solar heat gain, reflect UV rays, protect interior furniture, products, and finishes while helping to regulate interior temperatures.

Q:

Does solar window film work?

A:

Today’s modern window film is extremely effective in solving the common problems caused by the damaging effects of the sun. Unlike the dated window films from the ’80s and ’90s, today’s window film is virtually unnoticeable in some circumstances, but consistently delivers the solar protection customers are looking for.

Q:

How effective is solar window film?

A:

Solar window film is extremely effective, and when applied to homes or businesses, individuals can see savings when it comes to energy costs. Solar Film can reject up to 78% of the heat that may come towards it and can help to reduce air conditioning costs by reducing heat gain – all while allowing natural light to enter the space.

Q:

How does solar window film work? 

A:

At Window Film Systems, the solar window film we use works as a barrier to the damaging effects of the sun, protecting people and surfaces from harmful UV rays. There are different technologies in play, all depending on the film being used. However, all our solar window film works to limit the heat gain in a home or business.

Q:

How long does solar window film last?

A:

To determine just how long window film will last, it will depend on whether interior or exterior film is being used. Window film installed inside of your windows is designed and warranted to last as long as you own your home. Exterior solar film, on the other hand, is warranted for 3 years. Commercial warranties vary depending on the type of installation.

Q:

Does solar window film keep the heat out?

A:

Yes, solar window film does keep a good portion of the heat out. The original intent of solar film was to reject heat. Solar film comes in varying degrees of effectiveness, all depending on a client’s desire to balance form, function, and budget. In its mildest form, solar window film will reject 35% heat, up to our most aggressive heat rejection at 78%.

Q:

Which is better – solar screens or solar window film?

A:

Both solar window film and solar screens can provide adequate protection against UV rays, however, these two applications differ significantly. Depending on personal needs and the space at hand, either option may be best for you. In some circumstances both solar window film and screens may be the most advantages option for your individual needs.

Solar window films offer a number of added benefits, including reduced energy costs and reduced solar heat gain. They reflect UV rays and protect interior finishes and surfaces from damaging UV light while regulating temperature.

Solar screens can block UV rays from entering a home and can also help to control energy costs, whereas solar screens offer the added benefit of glare reduction.