Residential Window Tinting: Tips, Types, and Pros & Cons
December 6, 2022

Residential Window Tinting: Tips, Types, and Pros & Cons

Energy-efficient house window tinting can help you save a significant amount of money if you live in a climate that requires constant use of HVAC systems.

Window tinting started off as a rare commodity with the exclusive use of tinted glass windows in Mesopotamia and Europe's largest cathedrals, mosques, and palaces over a thousand years ago. High-tech window coatings were previously exclusively accessible to scientists working for organizations like NASA. 

But today, window tints and films are an affordable and practical choice for those with regular jobs who want a quick and inexpensive retrofit for privacy and energy efficiency.

What Is Residential Window Tinting?

Window tinting is a low-cost alternative to buying and installing energy-efficient windows by placing a thin film on the windows. It assists in regulating the temperature, minimizing UV rays damage, furniture fading, and enhances privacy.

But hold on, do you see a bubbled-up, peeling disaster on your window? Not to worry. Today's residential window tinting differs from the one that came with the lovely early 1980s automobile.

Did we mention residential window tinting is a game changer in upgrading the aesthetics of your home? Greeting through a window with high-quality film is similar to donning a costly set of sunglasses.

Types Of Residential Window Tinting

  • Solar Window Film

This choice contributes to increased energy efficiency. Up to 99% of UV radiation can be reflected or absorbed by these films. Thus, the tinting prevents interior furniture from fading and lessens glare and exposure to dangerous UV rays. It also adjusts the indoor temperature.

Finally, it improves energy efficiency and indoor comfort. The film's color is typically neutral and can range from copper to silver.

  • Security Window Film

Install security film if you wish to minimize damage caused due to window breakage in case of unforeseen accidents such as storms or deterring criminals. It is the thickest kind of film.  Majority of securitytints hardly reflect or absorb any heat.

These films aid in preventing a window's total shattering in the event of a storm or home invasion that destroys the window. The window can remain intact since the damage has spread to a wide crack.

  • Decorative Window Film

The least heat-absorbing and heat-reflecting window film available is this one. Its primary function is to enhance the beauty or privacy of a space. It comes in numerous engraved patterns, stained glass motives, or even opaque designs that deter prying eyes as a bold or clear colored film.

Pros Of Residential Window Tinting

There are boundless benefits of residential window tints. The most significant advantage is that it's a cost-effective way to increase the security or efficiency of your home. Residential window tinting is simple to locate at any home improvement store and is reasonably priced per square foot.

Even with expert installation, it costs a few more dollars with the professional assurance that it's done correctly. It is much less expensive than other window coverings like solar screens or cellular blinds, which may cost hundreds of dollars. It also means significant energy bill savings and less wear and tears on your air conditioner.

You might benefit from advantages like daytime privacy, UV protection for your skin, and reduced fading or discoloration of your flooring, paint, and furniture, depending on the shade you select. With security film, you may darken your windows to deter break-ins and reduce the chance that the glass would break during a storm.

Cons Of Residential Window Tinting

Although tinted windows are a valuable and affordable home improvement, they have certain drawbacks.

Before adding residential window tinting, it's crucial to check the warranty on your windows. Some homeowners who allege damage to the manufacturer later learn that the guarantee was void since they had installed the film. It is so that you can ensure your desired window tint is compatible with your current windows and warranty. Some types of window film can damage some types of window glass. 

Additionally, you ought to consult your homeowners' association. Some HOAs forbid changing the exterior appearance of the glass.

And finally, if you perform the work yourself, the outcome might be flawed. The film is prone to developing creases or scratches that make it appear unattractive. Additionally, you could install the incorrect film on the wrong type of glass, exposing you to additional problems down the road.

Things To Keep In Mind Before Window Tinting For Your Home

Different films will respond in different ways. You must determine whether the sort of window you are working with suits the film you will be applying for.

You'll need to consult a specialist to discover how film-friendly a piece of glass is because some glasses handle tinting better than others. Are you attempting to conserve energy?

Given that it blocks up to 99% of UV radiation and prioritizes temperature adjustment, solar window film might be the solution you're looking for.

Remember!

You need to be aware of the different intensities of light that you need in various spaces. You cannot have all of your windows in the same tint since certain areas will receive less light than others. With this in mind, you can select rooms that require additional light filtering and those that do not.

Thousands of people are demonstrating numerous installation and maintenance procedures in DIY tutorials that have taken off online.

Even though the concept of being self sufficient is excellent, somethings are better off left to the experts. You are better off working with a professional if you don't want anything to go wrong.

Residential window tinting is one of the most economical light-filtering treatments available. Although it is based on a relatively straightforward idea, the consequences are profound.

  • Window film will most likely last you for decades, so you'll get a multiple-faceted return on your investment.
  • Homemade detergents are gentler on the glass when it comes to routine maintenance.

Any modification to your property should be evaluated in light of its necessity, and there are two requirements in this situation. Consider the building's appearance after the installation as well. While it must be helpful, it helps if the item is attractive.

Note: Ask for photographs of projects comparable to yours if you need clarification; this will provide you with a lot of great ideas while assisting you in avoiding blunders.

We're more than delighted to give as many examples of our prior work as you'd like at Tint By Masters. We want you to be confident in your decision and know that you've made the best for your house.

Ready To Get Your Free Estimate

Contact the Tint By Masters experts call us today at (407) 521-0920 or click the button below for our free estimate request form!