So Many Window Tinting Films. How Do You Decide What’s Best?
I hear you. It’s hard to choose the right home window tint for your home office or home, because there are just so many options. Not just shades of tint, but whether you should install security films to protect your home from break-ins, decorative window films, and even options for privacy window film products. Is there really such a thing as a best home window type of film? After 30+ years of window tinting, we think we have the right stuff to help you make good decisions.
Residential window tinting films offer an affordable and effective way to improve privacy, reduce heat, and protect your interiors from harmful UV rays. But with so many options available, how do you know which film is right for your needs? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of window tinting films and help you choose the best window tint film for your space.
Assessing Your Needs:
Before selecting a window tinting film, you really need to decide what it is you’re looking to achieve. There are so many options to choose from and deciding on which films are the best, is a process we take every one of our customers through.
UV Protection
Did you know that ultraviolet damage from unprotected natural light is the biggest cause of damage to your property in terms of furnishings, carpet, flooring, furniture and more? You already know it can damage your eyes and your skin. So, if your primary concern is protecting your home’s interior from sun damage, or the people inside the building, then look for films that block up to 99% of UV rays. This is particularly useful for homes with plenty of glass or large commercial windows, as UV light can cause fading to your furniture, flooring, and artwork.
Top Hint: All the films we recommend and install on ALL our jobs at 1300 Get Tint by Matt Bull, block out 99% of UV rays.
Energy Efficiency
If you’re aiming to reduce energy costs, solar control films are your best bet. These films minimize heat from the sun, keeping your space cooler in the summer. This is especially helpful for buildings in the hot Brisbane and Gold Coast climate, and those with sun-facing windows.
Privacy
Maybe the right window film for your home gives you privacy from prying eyes, or a feeling of seclusion from the outside. If you own a home, shop, office, (or work in a home office) and you’d like to add a sense of privacy without expensive window furnishings, and without replacing window panes, consider frosted or reflective films. They can effectively obscure views without compromising natural light. Our customers at 1300 Get Tint, often use either frosting or reflective films for street-facing windows or frosting films for areas like bathrooms and conference rooms. We’ll chat with you to discover your desired level of privacy and balance that with the other considerations for solar window films. Frosting films (and other decorative options) are also perfect to help divide spaces and keep a feeling of openness.
Glare Reduction
Offices and home media rooms can benefit from films that reduce glare, which helps prevent eye strain without darkening the room too much.
Safety and Security
You may have privacy and security concerns because of the area that you live. Especially with commercial window tinting scenarios, our clients are often asking about security window films. But safety and security issues are not just confined to shops, offices and corporate environments.
There are specifically designed films for safety (to prevent the scattering of glass shards on breakage). These go beyond the inherent protection from plain window films. Often we install them in schools and shop fronts. In areas of higher vandalism we install 2 different grades of security window tint options.
The ‘lower’ grade is a window adherant film that deters break-ins for about half a minute. The ‘higher’ spec security film can deter vandals for up to about 2 minutes (and the intruders often give up and leave before they break through). These films have a special system that adheres them to the window frame.
Different Types of Window Tinting Films:
There are several types of window films to choose from, each offering different benefits:
Dyed Films
These are an affordable lower quality film primarily for privacy and glare control. They have a shorter lifespan but are good for interior applications.
Metallic Films
Known for their superior heat and UV protection, metallic films also give windows a slightly reflective appearance. However, they may interfere with electronic signals, making them less ideal for homes or offices where Wi-Fi, mobile reception, or GPS signals are a concern.
Ceramic Films
This is the high-end option, offering excellent heat rejection, protection against UV, and privacy without affecting window clarity. Ceramic films are durable and do not interfere with electronic devices, making them a top choice for both residential and commercial properties.
Frosted & Decorative Films
Frosted or decorative films are ideal for creating privacy while adding a touch of design to your space. They come in a variety of patterns and colors, allowing for customization to fit your style. Perfect for bathrooms, conference rooms, or any area where visible light is important but privacy is needed.
Factors to Consider Before Installation:
Location of Your Property
Residential windows or offices located in hot climates will benefit most from films with high UV and heat rejection. If your office has large, sun-facing windows, consider a reflective or ceramic film for maximum efficiency.
Window Size & Placement
Larger, more exposed windows will need films with higher solar protection, while smaller windows or those in shaded areas can use lighter, privacy-focused films.
Interior Design Considerations
For open-plan homes or offices, frosted or decorative films are an excellent way to separate spaces while still allowing light to flow through. You don’t need to cover the entire window, and you can choose from bands, shapes, or even custom designs to suit your needs.
Professional Installation vs. DIY:
Benefits of Professional Installation
Yes, you could do this yourself. But how well would you perform the task? We are professional window installers who have taken years to perfect our craft. A professional installer who provides window tinting services ensures films are applied without bubbles or peeling. We make sure we provide a smooth, long-lasting finish. And we can advise you as to the films best suited to your different window types and applications.
DIY Installation
While DIY window film installation can save money, it often results in imperfections such as air bubbles, uneven cuts, or poor adhesion. DIY is more suitable for small windows or non-critical areas.
Maintenance and Durability:
Longevity of Different Films
Higher-quality films such as ceramic or metallic types are more durable and can last for several years without needing replacement. Dyed films tend to fade or bubble over time and may require more frequent replacement.
Cleaning and Care
Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth and mild detergents to clean your windows. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the film and reduce its lifespan.
How to Choose the Best Window Film
Choosing the right window tinting film depends on your specific needs, whether it’s protection from UV, energy savings, privacy, or style. With the right guidance and professional installation, your office or home can benefit from enhanced comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics. Consult with an expert at 1300 Get Tint to find the best solution for your space for all your home or business window needs. Whether it’s commercial tinting, films for your home and shopfront, privacy, reflective, frosted or decorative, we’ll help you find the right tint for your space.
