How does window film work?

HOW TO COMPARE TECHNICAL INFORMATION: Total solar energy rejection is "hype". Look at the shading coefficient. The lower the shading coefficient "on your specific type of glass" the better the product will reject heat. Most sample cards give information for 1/8" clear glass, so to figure out the heat reduction, use the following formula,

Solar Heat Reduction = Shading Coefficient of glass minus Shading Coefficient of glass with film divided by Shading Coefficient of glass.

If you receive a sample from a contractor that is cut from the roll and privately labeled, you run the risk of being fooled. Every manufacturer produces professional sample cards that give accurate information and every contractor can supply you with the AIMCAL booklet. This booklet spells out exactly what window film will and will not do, and how it works and is available from our office.

SOME HINTS ON SELECTING A BRAND OF WINDOW FILM: We believe the most important thing about a window film installation is the craftsmanship of the installer supported by a friendly and efficient staff. We have a team that beats all for great installations. However, with the plethora of manufacturers and expert advice out there, we find the selection of material to be confusing at times (we have been studying window film since 1969). We want you to be informed about your decision, so here are examples of a few of the 3M SCOTCHTINT™ windowfilms we have available:

RE50NEARL is a 50% neutral grey and was the first to have a Lifetime Warranty* for material and labor and includes both seal failure coverage and thermal fracture coverage for 2 years. This product is another in the long list of high quality products from 3M. 3M invented window film, and more of this product has been installed in homes than any other product. 3M has a patented adhesive system and there aren't any equivalents to their products.

Ultra Scotchshield is a security film that make use of biaxile simultaneous orientation, which means that the film has dozens of layers of "plastic" that gives the product unmatched tear and puncture resistance

P-18AR Scotchtint high perfomance silver is the flagship of the 3M line. No one in California has installed more P18AR than we have, with projects dating back to 1969. Michael Sweem won a contest at PG&E for getting more rebate $$$$$$ than any one else, and mostly with this time tested technology.

RE70NEARL At the other end of the spectrum is our very light neutral. This film is color stable and such a light neutral color that it can hardly be noticed. It cuts 98% of the ultra violet light. A favorite product with designers and home owners for controlling fading of furniture.

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ARMORCOAT®
Armorcoat is a leader in security films. Armorcoat is available in several thickness of clear and is also available in frosted versions. One of the best values in window film today is the hybrid version of Armorcoat that is spectrally select, blocking heat and UV without blocking the light. All with the safety and security Armorcoat is famous for. Armorcoat is one of pioneers in this field with many international installations and is backed by a 12 year warranty, the longest is the industry.

PANORAMA® (type Sterling 50)
This material has the most comprehensive warranty in the industry, a Lifetime Warranty* for material and labor and includes seal failure coverage for 3 years and thermal fracture coverage for 5 years. The great thing about this product is that Panorama® films block more heat without darkening the windows. Material Science Corporation makes this product in a new state of the art facility in San Diego. This facility is truly amazing on every level. Material Science Corporation is a leader in the window film industry.

SOLAR GARD® (type Stainless Steel 150)
This material has a Lifetime Warranty* for material and labor and includes 1 year thermal fracture coverage. Material Science Corporation makes this product and it is the benchmark of their product line.

These are just a few of the dozens of window films availble today. All manufacturers are producing excellent products with constant improvements in technology. We want to be your window film contractor regardless of which brand of material you choose.

Whatever type you choose, we will install it perfectly. With our 30 years of experience, we are here to help you select a film for your specific project.

* Residential Warranty. Commercial projects include warranties that range from 2 to 12 years. We can provide you with actual warranty terms upon request.