Fighting energy inefficient, weak or outdated windows? Using after-sales window film to paint windows from the inside is one of the simplest and most economical methods, which can improve energy efficiency, safety, and even suppress the attractiveness of the house without replacing the windows.
Although most residential window films are lightweight self-adhesive polyester coverings made of polyethylene terephthalate (the same polymer used to make plastic water bottles), not all window films are equal or It is worth your investment. Read on to learn about the different options — and the benefits and drawbacks of tinted windows — so you can decide if this kind of curtain is right for you and how to install it for the best results.
There are three main types of window films, each of which is installed on home windows for different reasons:
As mentioned in the previous section, different types of window films absorb different degrees of heat. Some windows can withstand this heat, while others…not so much. Most security and decorative films block very little heat, so they don’t put too much thermal stress on the windows. Unless your manufacturer discourages you, you can usually apply them to all three common types of window glass-annealing (basic flat glass), heat treatment (annealed glass exposed to high temperatures), and insulation (consisting of two layers of glass) ) Glass with a layer of air or gas in between)-the risk of damage to the window glass is minimal.
However, the International Window Film Association recommends avoiding the use of solar films in the following situations, because the higher heat absorption rate of the film will increase the thermal stress of these types of window glass, causing them to crack:
If in doubt, please check the manufacturer’s window information to determine which window film is compatible.
Many homeowners report window damage to the manufacturer, only to find that they have put window film on the glass panel, which invalidates the window manufacturer’s warranty. In fact, because certain types of window film may cause damage to certain types of window glass, many window manufacturers will not cover defects caused by using aftermarket window films to modify windows. Please note: You should never start painting windows without first confirming whether your window manufacturer’s warranty supports the use of window film.
Old windows without a low-emissivity (low-E) coating (a thin layer of metal oxide on the glass) can block heat and thus get the most out of the energy savings provided by tinting. New types of windows with low-emissivity coatings have already provided a certain degree of energy efficiency for homes, so applying window film on these windows may not significantly improve indoor comfort and energy-saving effects.
Buy after-sales window film from a home improvement center (check the example on Amazon) and install it on your windows for only US$2 to US$4 per square foot. At the same time, according to the cost guide on the home improvement planning website ImproveNet, the cost of professional installation is usually 5 to 8 US dollars per square foot. For a single window glass of 3 feet 8 inches by 3 feet 8 inches, coloring it yourself is only $27 to $54! Based on these calculations, window films are generally cheaper than other popular shades; solar screens (fabric shades that absorb and/or reflect heat) for DIY installation average US$40 to 280 per window, while honeycomb shades (in The fabric covering that absorbs heat in the honeycomb battery) usually costs between US$45 to US$220 per piece, similar to a DIY window.
Installing window film yourself is a task that any homeowner will do. Before painting the windows, wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth dipped in a solution of a teaspoon of tear-free baby shampoo and a gallon of bottled water. Then, use a utility knife to cut the aftermarket window film to make it ½ inch longer and wider than the window glass you plan to tint. Finally, remove the adhesive from the film and gradually stick it on the window glass from top to bottom. When sticking the film, lightly spray the remaining baby shampoo on the surface of the film, and then slide the plastic scraper or credit card across the surface in one direction to remove the remaining air bubbles in the film. Let the film cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions-this usually takes four to eight days.
Potential defects in DIY window tinting—such as dirt or detergent streaks that appear under the film, scratches or bubbles and wrinkles on the film—are some homeowners choosing professional installations to ensure a cleaner, original finish. But meticulous DIY window film installation can produce the same high-quality results.
Decorative films are more often sold as temporary coloring solutions, which makes them an option for renters or homeowners with commitment phobias, while solar and security films are usually semi-permanent or permanent coloring options, which makes them more suitable for homeowners .
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