Summary:
– Why use UV protection film?
– Applying anti-UV film
– Tinted glass home solutions
– Tinted glass: opacifying glass, an innovative product
– Buy UV protection film
– Prices for tinted windows for the house
Did you know that films specially designed for window panes can be used to modify the properties of window panes? It can be simple decoration, a way to preserve privacy, but also to fight against the harmful effects of the sun. In this case, anti-UV films are used.
It is common to see tinted windows on large buildings but little in private homes, and yet they greatly improve living comfort. Solutions exist for both existing and new windows. With tinted glass in homes, there is no need to close shutters or blinds to protect against heat and the opposite side of the house, and the light remains the same.
Why use an anti-UV film?
Features
UV protection film falls into the category of sun protection film. It is a self-adhesive membrane that is applied to the inside of the windowpane to prevent UV rays from penetrating through the window. The film is thus supposed to block the passage of 99% of UVA radiation.
However, the barrier it provides does not prevent the passage of light, and visibility should normally remain the same. The film has a very thin thickness of between 30 and 50 microns, i.e. 0,03 to 0,05 mm. It can have a champagne or slightly bluish-grey colour depending on the manufacturer, but these shades are not supposed to distort the colours.
The film is suitable for all types of windows and glazing, including double glazing.
Advantages
Anti-UV films were originally designed for professional use to protect items displayed in shop windows. UV rays are responsible for the discoloration of furniture, fabrics and even floors. For rooms that are highly exposed to the sun, the addition of a UV filter on windows can really slow down the deterioration of furniture and its use is therefore also justified for private use.
Being a solar film, the UV film also keeps rooms a little cooler in case of strong exposure and will, to a lesser extent, help to reduce glare.
Applying a UV protection film
Although it requires more care, the application principle is the same as for a sticker.
Cleaning the surface
A film must be applied to a perfectly clean window. To clean it, simply spray soapy water and then wash it with a scraper. A squeegee will remove the water from the glass surface.
Applying the film
The installation of the film must be done very meticulously following the steps described in the instructions provided by the seller. The crucial step is to remove the air bubbles trapped between the film and the glass: the proper use of the squeegee will help you in this delicate passage.
You will also need a cutter and adhesive tape.
Good to know: the secret to a successful installation? A good moistening of the glass and film throughout the operation.
Tinted glass home solutions
Today there are several options on the tinted glass market: the option of a film that you can apply yourself or have a professional apply it, and factory-treated glass, to filter the sun’s rays or opacify a pane.
The solar film
This is the simplest solution and there are sun protection films in different colours: the darker the shade, the more effective the film will be against UV and solar radiation. Some reflective models provide protection from the sun’s rays, but also from view.
Installation for indoors or outdoors depending on the model is within the reach of any DIY enthusiast. Certain precautions should be taken when cleaning, but these are usually explained by the manufacturer.
Its ease of installation, its price and its adaptability to all models of windows or patio doors are its main advantages. Its relative fragility and its lifespan, which is much shorter than that of tinted glass, are its weak points.
Tinted glazing
The glass is treated in the factory to reflect the sun’s rays and prevent overheating of the interior space. For example, these glazings are used for conservatory roofs, but can also be installed on any window frame.
Its weak point is cost, while its main advantage is its durability.
Note: as with glasses, photochromic glass can darken automatically depending on the light it receives.
Tinted glass: opacifying glass
In addition to tinted glass, there is an innovative product called opacifying or intelligent glass. It is available in glass or film. The principle is simple: these films are composed of liquid crystals that can be changed from totally transparent to opaque on demand. In other words, the user decides how much light enters the room with the help of a remote control. This is possible as a result of innovative liquid crystal technology.
Prices of tinted glass for the home
You can use a shop specializing in the sale and installation of films, but the cheaper solution is to buy a film on the Internet. Most sites offer a cut to the exact dimensions of the window. The price of solar film or blackout film varies from $20 to $40 per square metre.
The price of treated glass is much higher and depends on the size of the window, of course, but also on the type of treatment desired.
You can request a quote from Vision Window Tint Etc. They operates in Ottawa and the surrounding areas and provide Residential Tinting, Commercial Tinting, Security Film, Decorative Tinting, and Automotive/Car Tinting.
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