First and foremost, not all window film is tinted. The attributes of window film are as varied as the options available. Anti-glare, mirrored, privacy, solar protection, safety and security, UV film, and much more.
For the topic covered here, we will be reviewing the more common types of window film that are available with a tint. It would require a book to cover every manufacturer’s tinted window film catalog. But we’ll do our best to give you a strong overview so that you have a better understanding of the industry.
Difference between window tints
Now to break these products down further, window film tints come in not just different types but also varying degrees of darkness. Every manufacturer of window film has their own line with their preferred levels of tint. Some window film lines may have a mere two or three tinted options, while others could have five or six. The good news is you are assured that the right film to fit your needs is being made.
Mirrored film for windows
Mirrored window film has become very popular for commercial buildings. Its sleek, elegant appearance adds a level of elegance to any building. Mirrored window film is considered tinted window film by many, as individuals on the outside of the building cannot see in during daylight hours.
Mirrored window film falls into the anti-glare window film category. It helps prevent that gnarly glare on your computer screen, as well as the debilitating reflection penetrating an office window at certain times of the day.
Privacy window tint
Privacy is a priority for most of us. But perhaps more so with a property owner who wants to shelter their inventory or furnishings. Thieves are less likely to break-in if they don’t know what you have!
Privacy window tint is available for both exterior windows as well as interior glass partitions. Frosted window film is extremely popular for office spaces. It can be used to create nature-scapes or other whimsical designs that elevate the vibe of a generic work environment.
Solar films
Solar films are becoming a standard as energy efficiency and carbon neutrality are taking precedence across the globe. These window films are created with the intention of blocking out damaging sun rays and reducing the heat that enters a building. The results are impressive and benefit a property owner in numerous ways.
Recently the General Services Administration accepted the 3M™ Prestige 70 solar window film into the Green Proving Ground Program for testing. Once approved, this particular window film will be applied to government buildings and affirmed as a superior solar film within the industry.
UV film for windows
UV window films are created to block out UV rays. Yet not all UV films are tinted. However, tinting is an option. And boy are there many! These tints come in varying degrees according to the manufacturer.
Essentially, UV window film lets in the light while reflecting much of the sun’s heat away from your home. They reject up to 78% of solar heat and filter visible light. At the same time, they block up to 99% of harmful UV rays to help protect your furnishings – and your skin.
Ceramic film vs. regular film
There are also ceramic series window films. This is a non-metalized film that will not interfere with 5G connectivity. This is becoming a priority for offices within commercial buildings.
Both ceramic film and regular window film block visible light while adding privacy. However, regular window film has an anti-scratch coating, while ceramic window film is coated with durable ceramic particles. The ceramic particles in this window film make it stronger and less likely to scratch.
In addition, ceramic window film blocks harmful UV rays, glare, and heat. Not all regular tinted window films do. Regular window tint makes glass heat up more, while ceramic film doesn’t. Furthermore, ceramic window film rejects up to 80% of the sun’s heat-producing infrared rays, all while providing greater glare reduction and a high level of clarity. Finally, ceramic window film can be completely clear, lightly tinted or darkly tinted.
Window tint vs. window film
Was that mind-boggling? There are so many different types of window films that it can be intimidating. The good news is there is surely one that will fit your needs perfectly. Try not to get caught up in the vastness of it all. Instead, focus on what you want.
Then our expert team can help you discern the ideal tinted window film to fit your needs. We know the industry well. Let us recommend the best possible window film for your building. We offer complimentary energy modeling building assessments that you can schedule now. Using government-approved software, we analyze the shape and orientation of your building in order to recommend the right window film for you – with or without tint!
