Sunglasses for the Home

• In the same way sunglasses protect our eyes from sunlight, window film treatment is a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to reflect the sun's harmful UV rays away and reduce glare from windows. In addition to helping keep homes cooler in summer, these films also act as an insulation in winter to help keep heat from escaping. In addition, some of these films contribute to home privacy.
  
  

Window Film Options

• Each type of window film -- decorative, insulating, glare-reducing, static cling, privacy -- has a specific purpose. For example, certain films prevent window glass from shattering in cases of hurricanes or tornadoes. You must decide which best meets your home's needs. Cost must be considered since many require professional installation for warranty purposes and others may be do-it-yourself. Ten-year warranties are most common for tints, and 3M's website suggests cost for the treatment may be recouped within two to five years, so many years of service may make this a good investment.
  
  Insulating window films offer dramatic cost reductions for both winter heating and summer cooling in addition to blocking 99 percent of UV rays. The better quality all-season films need professional installation, should provide a minimum of 20 years of life and have warranties for bubbling, cracking or peeling.
  
  Static cling films are excellent for reducing glare (65 percent), UV rays (90 percent) and solar heat (34 percent). Rolls of static cling film cost $40 to $70, require no special adhesives and can be applied by the homeowner, over and over as necessary to eliminate air bubbles between film and glass. When windows are single-pane, film should be applied on the inside; for dual-pane windows, it goes on the outside.
  
  Installing window films can be a complicated do-it-yourself project, often requiring another person to help, especially for large windows or when dual-pane windows require exterior glass applications. However, with patience and cooperation, DYI installation can realize a savings of several hundreds of dollars.