Frequently Asked Questions
What are window films?
Window films are very thin polyester-based products, that are coated and then laminated with different metals and dyes. They are applied to the surface of the glass that faces the interior of a home, cottage, storefront, commercial or institutional building. Window films are also used in automobile, boats and motor homes.
What are the benefits of using window film?
Window films are bonded to glass to help make the glass stronger. Window films reduce solar heat gain, glare, damaging ultraviolet rays and winter heat loss. They help to keep us warm in winter, cool in summer and they help keep glass together to reduce or eliminate shards of flying glass if the window is broken.
What types of window film are available from Island Solar Films?
• Safety/security films
• Solar control films
• Designer films
• Automotive films
Window films come in many colours, including neutral, bronze, grey, charcoal - to name just a few! There are reflective films such silver, gold, blue and green.
Are all window films dark or reflective?
Window films come in a wide variety of colours, shades and tints. Many window films are almost transparent and neutral looking while stopping most of the sun’s heat.
Can window films reduce fading on interior surfaces?
Fabric fading is caused by exposure to ultra-violet and visible light and heat. Solar control window film, with a visible light transmission of 15% stops almost 80% of fabric fading while a window film with a visible light transmission of 60% stops approximately 60% of fabric fading by limiting the amount of ultra violet, visible light and heat entering through the window.
How will window films help to lower air conditioning costs?
Window films can reduce are conditioning costs by blocking the heat from the sun from entering your home, building or boat.
How much light is stopped from coming in through the window?
This is a common question. How much of the visible light will come through the glass? The amount will vary with the type of window film that is used - the darker the film the less light transmitted. However, the amount of light blocked is not as much as you might think.
Why? The human eye is like a lens in a camera. Just like the camera lens, our eyes adjust to the reduction of light and our perception of the amount of light is greater than what is actually present. For example, if a window lets in 78% of the visible light, our eyes perceive the amount of visible light at 89%.
When a 60% visible light transmission film is applied to a window, the eye perception is 82%.
Will window films block heat from the winter sun?
All windows in the winter will loose heat. Only south facing windows have the potential for gaining heat from the winter sun. With window film on all windows, there is overall insulation and this helps to create an even temperature instead of hot or cold spots throughout your home or office.
How much will it cost to have window films installed?
Just as the type of window film used will vary from one building to another, the installed price will vary depending on the quantity, size and shape of the windows. Island Solar Films will help you choose the right product for your windows so that you get the greatest benefit at the best price.
How long will my window films last?
The effective life span of a window film depends on the type of film, the glass that it is applied to and the climate. In Canada, most professional grade window films should last over ten years. Island Solar Film provides a ten year warranty.
Can window films be applied to all kinds of glass: single or double-pane?
In most cases the answer is yes, however some restrictions and limitations may apply. Call Island Solar Films at 250-756-2454 or contact us by email at info@islandsolarfilms.com for more information.
What about applying window film to a Low E window?
The answer is dependent on three factors: 1. The type of low E surface used on the glass, 2. The location of the low E surface in the window system and 3. The amount of heat-gain reduction, heat-loss reduction or other benefits that you want from the window film.
How do window films help reduce costs in commercial or institutional buildings?
Large commercial, industrial or institutional buildings, even in our colder Canadian climate, may operate their air-conditioning system to dissipate heat that is generated by computers, elevators, lighting and in some cases even the heat created by building occupants. Heat gain through window glass can contribute to the problem, forcing air-conditioning systems to work harder and longer than is necessary.
How do I clean my windows after a window film has been applied?
Use a soft clean cloth or soft synthetic sponge to wash the window and for drying a window, a soft cloth or squeegee works well. Avoid using abrasive materials.
Will my house plants get enough light if I have window films installed?
Usually a house plant that is thriving is receiving enough light and having a window film installed on the window near the plant will not harm the plant. Sometimes a plant may go into a state of shock but it will quickly adjust to the change in light. In some cases, especially if a plant is wilted by the sun’s heat, window films will help that plant thrive.
