best uv window film

Best UV Blocking Window Film for Solar Protection & Energy Savings

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best uv window filmWith the various types of sun control and energy saving window films available, what is the best UV blocking window film? Well, that depends. 

Most residential and commercial window films are equipped with some degree of UV protection. However, some products (like those from 3M™) offer additional benefits for enhanced appearance, heat retention, or privacy. 

Most 3M™ sun control window films block 97% of harmful UV rays, several of which also block heat and prevent dramatic temperature swings. But when it comes to determining the best UV blocking window film, the choice often depends on what additional features are desired. To help shed healthy light on which product is best for your needs, below are several types of sun control and UV blocking window film products worth considering from 3M™.

3M™ Traditional Series 

As a commercial-specific window film for office buildings, retail storefronts, and other business applications, the Traditional Series from 3M™ is a UV blocking sun control film that’s designed to save energy, improve privacy, and enhance aesthetics – all on a budget. The Traditional Series includes P18 Classic silver and Affinity commercial-grade films. The darker tint options further helps reduce glare and eye discomfort, while the increased reflection of this film helps enhance daytime privacy and can create a more uniform exterior appearance.

The Traditional Series for Commercial blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays and provides energy savings resulting in potential paybacks in less than three years. It also can be applied to over eight different LEED Certification credits.

3M™ Neutral Series 

With options available for both commercial and residential applications, 3M™ Neutral Series significantly blocks the amount of harmful UV rays while delivering ample heat rejection, energy savings, and improved comfort. This UV blocking film is also available in a variety of glare-reducing tint levels to better suit your preferences. Its soft hues give this film an attractive look that’s fitting for both residential and commercial windows.

3M™ Thinsulate™ Climate Control Series 

3M™ Thinsulate™ Climate Control Series is one of the most popular window film products for both commercial and residential applications. For buildings exposed to four season climates, 3M™ Thinsulate™ delivers insulating and temperature control capabilities. It also provides an effective and affordable alternative to replacing inefficient, single-pane windows, which is a common scenario for older homes and historic structures. 

3M™ Thinsulate™ can improve the sustainability, comfort, and appearance of new office towers, registered historic buildings, and every sort of building in between. With its UV blocking capabilities, it provides adequate fade protection while remaining virtually invisible. In short, its neutral appearance will not dramatically change the look of glass windows – inside or out.

3M™ Prestige Series

3M™ Prestige Series window films uses industry-leading, spectrally-selective technology that’s designed to keep building occupants cool, comfortable and protected. It’s available for residential and commercial applications, as well as a Prestige Exterior Series that delivers advanced Visible Light transmission.

The 3M™ Prestige Series uses non-metallized, multi-layer optical film and nano-technology to block up to 60% of the heat and 97% of the sun’s infrared light coming through your windows. As one of the best UV blocking window films, they also reject up to 99.9% of damaging UV rays to effectively reduce fading of your furnishings.

Prestige Series window film provides low interior and exterior reflectivity that enables occupants to enjoy views from inside, all while maintaining an attractive look from outside. Unlike other UV protection and sun control films, they can become carbon negative in as short as six months from install.

3M™ Ceramic Series

3M™ Ceramic Series window film is a non-metallized film that comes in a natural tone to provide optimal clarity. In addition to blocking 99% of UV rays, the Ceramic Series is also proven to keep occupants cool by rejecting up to 80% of the sun’s heat-producing infrared rays. It’s a popular window film when aesthetics and natural appearance is just as much priority as UV and sun protection.

Advanced ceramics allow these UV films to maintain their color and appearance over time. They’re designed with a scratch-resistant coating to ensure clear, unobstructed views for years, and they’re manufactured for both commercial and residential applications.

3M™ Night Vision™ Series 

3M™ Night Vision™ Series has been specially designed to deliver improved savings and comfort while providing enhanced sight at night. While not limited to nighttime hours, the Night Vision™ Series helps block the sun’s damaging UV rays, minimize glare, and reject up to 71% of the sun’s heat. 

Night Vision™ Series films allow 15% to 35% of the natural light into your rooms by day, and thanks to a low interior reflectivity, occupants can still enjoy a clear view by night. Also designed using 3M™ nano-technology, the film’s color stability is greatly enhanced so no distortion in outside view is evident. You can find this window film available in commercial and residential-grade options.

Honorable Mention: CoolVu Transitional Film

While all of the UV blocking films above are from 3M, we couldn’t conclude this post without mentioning CoolVu Transitional Window Film. These are some of the most functional, attractive, and advanced solar window film options on the market today. CoolVu Transitional films are known for their ability to adapt to the intensity of sunlight, dynamically optimizing your indoor environment.

In essence, CoolVu activates from a clear to a tinted state when exposed to sunlight. By adapting to the amount of sun exposure, CoolVu Transitional Films provide much needed sun control only when occupants really need it. They deliver 99% blockage of UV rays and up to 80% reduction in solar-induced heat gain, but without compromising the sun’s natural light. To learn more, visit our page on CoolVu Transitional Window Film.

These are some of the best UV blocking window films for both energy savings and solar protection against fading. For more information about these window film products, how much they cost, and other options, contact our experts at Window Film Depot.

 

prevent graffiti and vandalism

Prevent Graffiti and Vandalism: 5 Strategies for Retailers and Business Owners

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prevent graffiti and vandalismDespite the various ways to prevent graffiti and vandalism, very few options are reliably effective in deterring unsightly tags and property damage. Band-aid fixes like proper lighting and plant coverage may be marginally successful in warding-off vandals. But in most cases, retailers and business owners can benefit from having greater reinforcement installed to effectively prevent graffiti and vandalism.

We’re not saying solutions like a row of flowers or a well-lit and well-monitored property doesn’t help prevent vandalism and graffiti. Rather, it’s often a combination of measures that provide ultimate prevention against these threats. Here are five strategies that can be effective solutions for retailers, businesses, and any property owners subject to graffiti and vandalism.

Anti-Graffiti Window Film Installation5 Strategies for Graffiti and Vandalism Prevention

According to a report by the EPA, the annual cost of monitoring, detecting, removing, and repairing graffiti damage has been estimated as high as $15 to $18 billion in the United States. Establishments subject to this damage can help reverse these numbers by employing the following graffiti and vandalism prevention strategies.   

1. Anti-Graffiti Film

One of the most cost-effective ways to prevent graffiti and vandalism damage is anti-graffiti film. It’s widely used as a powerful way to discourage vandals and to mitigate tagging on windows and other surfaces. Nearly invisible after being installed, anti-graffiti film is not only a deterrent against vandalism, but it also reduces and even eliminates the need for costly glass replacement. Based on statistics from products like 3M™ Anti-Graffiti Films, a single window replacement can easily be 10-20 times more expensive than the cost of anti-graffiti film installation. 

2. Impact Protection Attachment Systems

Often combined with anti-graffiti or surface protection films for optimal vandalism prevention, impact protection attachment systems offer the highest level of protection for glass walls and windows. These systems attach to the glass surface and window frame, creating a strong shield that prevents not only vandals and forced entry, but also earthquakes, bomb blasts, and other catastrophic events.

3. Anti-Graffiti Paints and Coatings

Anti-graffiti paints and coatings are protective barriers that can prevent materials used for tagging from bonding to a building’s surface. Essentially these products work like special spray paints that create protective surfaces that graffiti tagging can’t penetrate. Anti-graffiti paints come in three different coatings: 

  • Permanent coating: creates a protective barrier that doesn’t allow spray paint to bond to the surface. If the surface is vandalized, only graffiti cleaner is needed for removal. Permanent coatings are often more expensive, but if properly cleaned and maintained, only one coat is needed.
  • Sacrificial coating: forms a clear layer over the targeted surface. If vandalized, the coating is removed or “sacrificed” with a pressure washer, along with graffiti. Once removed, another coating needs to be reapplied.
  • Semi-sacrificial coating: used to protect the surface pores of a wall. If vandalized, this coating can be easily removed with a combination of graffiti removal cleaner and a pressure washer. After the graffiti has been removed, an additional coating can be optional depending on its condition.

4. Barriers

Creating a barrier can comprise of many different possibilities, some more tasteful than others depending on the property. Barriers can range from dense plant life like hedges, ivy, and shrubs or more conventional solutions like gates and fences. Designed to prevent vandals from easily accessing walls, the additional effort it takes to climb over or around these barriers can deter the effort of vandals or turn their attention elsewhere. When combined with anti-graffiti films and surface protection coatings, vandalism and graffiti can be even more preventable.

5. Multi-Layer Surface Protection Film

As the name implies, multi-layer surface protection film is versatile option that can be used for a wide variety of applications. For some exposed buildings, it offers an easy way to prevent graffiti and vandalism. Easily applied in a matter of minutes, multi-layer surface protection film can be used in both vertical and horizontal applications, making it an ideal choice for virtually any type of smooth surfaces, like exterior mirrors and glass, concrete and ceramic tile walls and floors, vinyl surfaces, and other non-porous compositions like granite, marble, quarry, and porcelain.

Aside from these effective strategies for graffiti and vandalism prevention, other common measures involve security cameras and personnel, flood lights and other lighting designs, signage, preventative murals, and other obstructions that might deter vandals. For more information about some of the film products, contact Window Film Depot for more information.

office productivity hacks

5 Office Productivity Hacks to Improve Organizational Morale & Output

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office productivity hacksIf there’s one essential ingredient to a thriving office environment, it’s employers taking care of their employees. Managers and task handlers are the lifeblood of an organization, and their level of output and morale will often directly influence a company’s long-term success.

This is especially true in offices that require a high level of focus, creating a healthy and inspiring working environment pays dividends. In highlighting simple ways to help facilitate such an atmosphere, below are five office productivity hacks designed to help improve organizational morale and overall output.

1. Dial-in the Office Feng Shui

Feng Shui, which is the Chinese system that focuses an environment’s spatial arrangement and orientation in relation to the flow of energy (or “qi”), is a concept that’s been heavily adopted by western culture. While most popularly applied to the interior design of living spaces, principles of Feng Shui can also be applied to work spaces as well.

A few Feng Shui office productive hacks to consider include:

  • Desk placement: In a small office, for example, it’s best to position a desk to have a view of both the door and the window. For shared office spaces or open floor plans, avoid positioning desks so that workers are sitting back to back.
  • Artwork and imagery: In a Feng Shui office, it’s important to be surrounded by images and objects that keep you inspired, creative and productive. Consider flowers, paintings, rugs, and suitable window treatments. Hang beautiful pictures, mottos, and images that capture what you, or the company, is seeking to accomplish. 
  • Plants: Plants do the best job at bringing fresh energy from the outdoors inside. Choose plants that not only look nice, but also help to purify the air of indoor pollutants, such as snake plants, chrysanthemums, spider plants, aloe veras, broad lady palms, and Chinese evergreens.
  • Color and mood: The color of a space in itself can affect energy and how people feel. In addition to wallpaper and paint, decorative wall graphics and architectural films offer endless creative possibilities to transform the color and vibe of a space to be more uplifting.  

2. Optimize Natural Sunlight and Control Glare

Piggybacking on the aforementioned Feng Shui ideas are a few additional ways to further enhance the ambiance and energy flow of a work space. One of the most important but overlooked hacks is optimizing natural sunlight while taking control of distracting glare. 

While many office interiors are equipped with blinds, shutters, drapes, and other sun control measures, these solutions block sunlight almost entirely, thereby relying on lighting systems to keep a space properly lit. 

An alternative solution that offers a number of benefits is sun control window film by 3M™. The right type of window film can minimize dependence on artificial lighting systems and lower energy consumption by as much as 52%.

3. Make Regular Breaks a Must

In office environments of the 1980’s and 90’s, it was common to have structured break periods when workers could step away from their desk and relax for 10-15 minutes. Today, the concept of break time is far less structured. As long as employees are getting the results expected of them, most workplaces allow workers to manage their own day-to-day schedules and when they wish to take breaks. 

Unfortunately, this level of freedom can oftentimes mean busy employees neglect taking breaks all together. While it may seem like a day without breaks would improve productivity and output, the opposite effect is actually the case. Several hours in front of the computer can be taxing, both mentally and physically. A marathon workday with no breaks will almost always have diminishing returns. 

An interesting study by the time-tracking productivity app DeskTime isolated the top 10% most productive employees and analyzed their computer-use behavior during one workday. The research found that “the most productive people work for 52 minutes, then break for 17 minutes.” 

DeskTime’s magical 52:17 ratio hinges on the idea that short periods of work produce great results because they’re essentially sprints – intensive, purposeful work sessions that come after a proper rest. Not convinced? You can learn more about the study here.

4. Create a Clear Workflow and Managerial Structure

While this might seem straightforward and obvious, setting a clear workflow and managerial structure is a productivity killer that’s actually quite prevalent. All too often, output is severely crippled simply because employees are not clear on what they’re supposed to be doing at a given time. Sure, workflows may be inconsistent and change based on unique circumstances, but higher-ups in the company should strive to codify them as much as possible.

In short, clarify the chain of command. Make sure everyone understands who they report to and avoid creating situations where employees feel like they have too many managers or people to report to throughout the day.

5. Let Employees Work However They’re Most Comfortable

Even in conventional office spaces, everyone works differently. Some prefer to operate in more collaborative and open atmospheres, while others require greater privacy to do their best work. In short, employees perform best when their environment is optimized to their individual needs. For employers and HR professionals, that often means giving workers more options.

In the modern office, this might involve: 

  • dedicating certain spaces to quiet productivity sessions as well as collaborative areas that are more interactive and social 
  • incorporating standing workstations or office furniture that supports an ergonomically-healthy environment
  • allowing employees to work remotely, even if just for parts of the day at coffee shops, libraries, etc.

The rise of email, video conferencing, and other collaborative technologies has allowed dispersed teams to work seamlessly together without issues. 

With some of these office productivity hacks, it doesn’t take much to turn a mundane environment into an inspiring space that fosters morale and output. Even low-budget investments like a tastefully-selective rugs, detoxifying plants, rearranging office furniture, and structured break periods can have a tremendous impact.

Patterned Decorative Glass Film

7 Types of Decorative Film for Interior & Exterior Glass Windows & Doors

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In the world of window films, decorative film is one of the most popular categories. In addition to being high in demand, the spectrum of decorative glass film is vast, spanning from various applications (i.e. glass doors, walls, interior and exterior windows) to an endless array of types, such as frosted privacy film, perforated graphics, architectural films, and many more. To highlight some of these various styles, below we share seven different types of decorative film for interior and exterior applications.

1. Frosted Glass Film

Ideal for windows, glass walls, and doors, frosted glass film can add a layer of privacy while still allowing natural sunlight to illuminate rooms. Frosted films come in many different styles and offer endless design possibilities. They can be partially or fully-concealed and integrated with distinct patterns, gradients, and custom designs. While often used to create private spaces for homes, offices, and other facilities, they can also complement the beauty of architectural and interior design styles. 

frosted glass film decorativeFrosted glass film is a popular choice for both interior partitions and exterior windows. For interior applications, the 3M™ FASARA™ series offers a number of distinctive styles well-suited for both commercial and residential living spaces. In addition to providing products and installation services, we help customers explore options within this decorative film category and pinpoint the ideal match for their project needs, in both feature and aesthetic. 

2. Textured and Gradient Decorative Film

Both gradient and textured decorative films can be a visually pleasing and practical pairing of gradual transitions and minimalist style. There’s no hard choice between coverage and obvious sightlines. Textured and gradient window films make it easy to emphasize the attractive qualities of space and what needs to be disguised. 

Gradient Textured Decorative Glass FilmWith gradient window film, customers can choose from a wide range of geometric and organic patterns, or have a window film installation professional orient gradient opacity from different angles, depending on the desired effect. 

Like specialty glass and some types of gradient films, textured decorative film provides ample privacy while adding an elegant accent to both interior and exterior spaces. Not only are such decorative films tasteful alternatives to window blinds, shades, and drapes, but they permit natural light and cater to stunning design possibilities.

3. Architectural Film

Architectural films are a style of decorative glass films that are used for decor, functionality, or both. Architectural window films typically provide the energy saving and UV blocking benefits that sun control films offer but with added aesthetics and design possibilities. Although mostly common in offices and commercial spaces, architectural films can also add character to the interior and exterior of homes.

dichroic decorative architectural filmArchitectural films allow customers to create stunning interior environments as well as creative exterior environments by incorporating unique characteristics and mood perspectives. From frosted and matte finishes to alluring color spectrums and geometric patterns, decorative glass window film offers both creative design ideas and advanced sun control capabilities that some customers require.

Decorative Di Noc 3M FilmAt Window Film Depot, we offer a wide range of architectural decorative films from 3M™, including products from the FASARA™ series of glass films, DI-NOC vinyl wrap finishes, and Dichroic Films for architectural laminated glass.

4. Perforated Vinyl Film

Ideally suited for custom and commercial applications, perforated vinyl film offers a whole world of possibilities. From transforming glass doors and windows into prime advertising real estate or adding an alluring aesthetic to storefronts or restaurants, perforated film is applicable for both short-term and long-term needs. 

perforated vinyl window film decorativePopular for storefront signage, window displays, promotions, and other visually-centric applications, perforated vinyl film in can allow for one-way viewing from interiors or may be used on storefront glass to promote a business. Truly decorative in their very nature, perforated films offer creative possibilities for branding and marketing.

In fact, advertising and marketing agencies often work with installation teams like Window Film Depot to help them actualize campaigns that feature head-turning window graphics, displays, and other indoor and outdoor media. When it comes to custom perforated vinyl film, we can design both decorative and intentional concepts, as well as handle the printing and installation of the finished product.

5. Patterned Decorative Film

Trending on the side of custom window film and specialty glass, patterned decorative film can offer a refreshing vibe that adds style and originality to a space. While not limited to commercial applications, the sophisticated styles of patterned window film bring both personality and privacy to any space. They can create distinct moods and levels of coverage by skillfully balancing transparency, matte areas, and surface finish.

Patterned Decorative Glass FilmSimilar to textured, gradient, and frosted films, patterned decorative film can add an inspired accent to any project. From geometric patterns, contemporary barcode stripes, and etched sparkles, patterned glass film is a true complement to an interior’s creativity. 

6. Specialty Decorative Film

The category of specialty decorative film is often used to describe a very diverse collection of unique films that render different colors, moods, and perspectives. These distinctive films can be used to customize both interior and exterior glass to create style and character.

specialty decorative filmSpecialty decorative films are often translucent, colorful hues such as blue, green, red, and yellow tints. These films add color to glass and illuminate when light passes through. They can be installed alone or in combination with opaque white and black film to produce a number of different effects.

7. Custom Decorative Film & Window Graphics

Many customers require custom window graphics and films to accommodate certain initiatives. While most common in commercial applications, custom window graphics can help actualize compelling marketing strategies to grab the attention of target customers. Not exclusive to retail shops and storefronts, window graphics offer limitless creative potential to develop impactful ideas for both large and small scale projects. 

custom decorative film window graphics

Custom decorative films and window graphics can be used to showcase sales and promotions, feature new inventory, make announcements, or leverage as signage and long-term applications. They can also be used to enhance interiors with new moods and perspectives. Imagine transforming a modest storefront into head-turning marketing tool with creative, properly placed window graphics. Or envision a newly-inspired office space that’s been rejuvenated with color, imagery, and other alluring graphics. With custom decorative film and window graphics, the boundaries are limitless.

For more information about decorative window film for either interior or exterior glass, contact Window Film Depot for product assistance and a free estimate. 

Dynamic, Adaptive CoolVu Transitional Window Film

Transitional vs. Switchable Smart Film: What Do Your Windows Really Need?

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Transitional Photochromic Window Film Tinting InstallationTransitional and switchable film may seem similar on the surface, but both options offer very different features and functionalities. Both are some of the industry’s most advanced window films that offer dynamic, transformational capabilities, however, when looking at how each of these window films function and what benefits they provide, switchable film and transitional film each cater to very different needs.

The good news is this makes the decision between transitional film and switchable film fairly easy for most consumers. In short, prioritizing privacy or sun control is often the determining factor. Below we share information about the core capabilities and differences between transitional and switchable film, and which type is more fitting for certain applications.

Switchable “Smart” Film

Switchable film, commonly called “smart film,” uses electrochromic technology to allow users to manually switch glass from a transparent to an opaque state. Switchable glass film is often applied to interior glass walls, windows and doors, as it provides a dynamic layer of privacy when needed. It can also be used as a backdrop for projectors and other means of collaboration.

From brands like Gauzy, Smart Tint®, and Intelligent Glass, there are a number of different switchable films on the market. Although some of these options do not require professional installation, the features these products offer can greatly vary. For example, one of the biggest drawbacks in certain “smart film” solutions is the inability to reduce solar heat gain and protect against UV transmission through glass. Similarly, most switchable films are battery operated, thereby requiring added maintenance over time. 

Most projects involving switchable film are interior glass applications, such as commercial office buildings, governmental agencies, and educational facilities. While these unique films provide transformational qualities required for privacy, they often lack the sun and temperature control capabilities that transitional film delivers. At Window Film Depot, we educate customers about switchable smart film and which products are ideally suited for their needs. 

Dynamic, Adaptive CoolVu Transitional Window FilmTransitional Film

As the name implies, transitional film changes from a clear to a darker tinted state, but only when exposed to the sun’s UV radiation. By effectively adapting to the amount of sunlight coming through glass windows and doors, transitional film delivers concentrated levels of sun control, only when needed.

The most popular product in this class is CoolVu Window Film. This film uses a proprietary method to create a stable photochromic reaction in the instance of UV transmission. One could argue that transitional window film is inherently more intelligent than “smart film” because it automatically adapts based on the level of sun exposure it’s receiving. 

Perhaps the most compelling quality about CoolVu Window Film is that it selectively filters solar energy, blocking out 99% of the sun’s UV radiation and over 80% of the infrared heat gain through glass. In turn, most CoolVu installations can pay for themselves within 3-5 years, depending on a building’s design and the climate in which it’s located.

Which Window Film is Better?

When it comes to sun control capabilities like blocking the solar heat gain and damaging UV rays, transitional film is the obvious winner. In the context of privacy, switchable “smart film” may be more appropriate. However in some cases, using both transitional and switchable film can actually make sense. For more information about these types of window films and other glass treatments, contact Window Film Depot to get a free estimate.  

3M Window Film Cost

How Much Does 3M Window Film Cost?

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3M Window Film Cost3M™ window film is one of the most popular choices of window films currently on the market. It provides a multi-layered optical, thinly coated film that utilizes nanotechnology and is resistant to abrasion. Naturally, one of the chief concerns that buyers have is the 3M window film price. This post will estimate the typical 3M window film cost and analyze how this price is calculated.

How Much Does 3M Window Film Cost?

While there isn’t a one size fits all approach, there are definite guidelines as to what you should reasonably expect to pay. The final price will typically depend on the size of film required, the scope of the work, the specific type of window film, and how difficult the installation is. 

We’ll break down each of these to give you a strong idea of what you should expect to pay. In general, you can expect to spend $5-$8 per square foot. However, luxury options like the 3M Prestige window film price will likely end up at $10-$12 per square foot.

Cost per Square Footage

As with most jobs in the window film industry, the cost of 3M window film is primarily based on square footage. Like the concept of bulk orders, larger projects can often be installed at a lower cost per square foot than smaller counterparts despite having an overall higher cost. However, in the context of residential projects, homeowners will often find themselves paying approximately $5-$8 per square foot range identified above.

After this, factors like warranty, longevity, tax credits, and product clarity can all impact the cost of 3M window film as well as future ROI. Additionally, the quality and professionalism of the installation can also impact the upfront cost of window film but also the longevity of the product. That said, paying more up front can often lead to a decrease in repair and maintenance costs on the backend.

Installation Cost of Window Film

The other main factor in determining the price of 3M window film is the installation cost. You’ll definitely need to consider the cost for a clean and professional installation, which is usually paid by the hour. As a point of reference, a standard job with around 2-3 glass panes is typically completed within 1 hour.

The frame type is also a major consideration as newer wood frames will typically cost more than their vinyl counterparts. If your windows are larger than average or you require a 2nd or 3rd story installation, the cost is also likely to increase. Although it depends on the scope of the work, the installation cost still won’t typically take you over $6 per square foot. 

Value of 3M Window Films

At these numbers, you’re probably wondering, ‘Am I getting a good deal?’ The value of 3M window films doesn’t stop after the installation process. First and foremost, you’ll start to enjoy substantial savings on your heating and cooling bills. You’ll also remove glare that can lead to fading on your floor and furniture. 

These window films will typically provide 20-30 years of reliable protection, making them an excellent tinting option. With most 3M window film prices coming in at just $5-$8 per square foot, this can provide substantial long-term value.

Window Film Tax Credit

Window Film Tax Credit: Can Solar Window Film Impact Your Tax Return?

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Window Film Tax Credit3M™ window films can provide significant benefits to both your home and your wallet. Not only does properly-installed window film help protect against dramatic temperature swings and interior fading, but such investments can also help put extra money in your pocket in the long-run. 

While the ROI of window film often comes in the form of reduced heating and cooling bills, the savings earned from window film tax credit isn’t talked about nearly enough. This post will go into detail about how solar window film can positively impact your tax return and help pay for themselves.

3M Window Film Tax Credit

While a lot of buyers see the energy-saving advantages of purchasing 3M window film, they don’t always take into consideration other opportunities to recoup their investment. The primary advantage of this is the tax credits available for window film installed in residential buildings. Under current legislation, you can claim 10% of the film cost up to an amount of $500.

For solar films, the tax advantages are even greater. The US Department of Energy allows you to claim up to 30% of the cost, including installation fees. While no upper limit is in place for the equipment, the maximum credit for fuel cells is $1,000 per kilowatt. Combine these 3M window film tax credits and you’re looking at significant savings that make it an even more appealing investment.

Required Documentation

To be entitled for the initial 10% credit, homeowners will need to fill out IRS Form 5695 and submit it with their property owner’s tax return. You will also need to submit a copy of the supplier’s invoice as well as the manufacturer’s certificate information. For most jobs, this 10% credit will get you very close to the $500 maximum.

Decreased Energy Bills

While everyone loves the idea of free tax credits, a decrease in your monthly bills can be even better financially. The average home wastes roughly $750 on energy each year, largely because glass is a relatively poor insulator of heat. By implementing the proper energy saving window film, you can easily reduce the energy transferred through your windows by 78%.

In turn, this reduces the need to run the air conditioner as much and will very likely lower your cooling bill. This can lead to a significantly reduced energy bill over the 20-30 year life of your window film. Especially if you’ve purchased a quality film on the front end, these savings will definitely add up.

Increased Home Resale Value

The third key area where 3M window films can really help out financially is by improving the resale value of your home. Understandably, many prospective homeowners are likely to ask a lot of questions before making their first purchase. One of the most common questions surrounds the recent utility bills, which 3M window film can significantly reduce!

An energy efficient home is much more attractive to buyers. Even if you aren’t looking to sell right now, it provides great peace of mind. While this isn’t the same as the 3M window film tax credit, the financial advantage will ultimately be significantly greater.

Window Film Depot’s CEO Jeff Franson Featured in Window Film Magazine

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In the May/June 2019 edition of Window Film Magazine, president and CEO of Window Film Depot, Jeff Franson, was featured in the piece Selling Security Film…And Following up with an Expert Install. 

In the article, Franson underscores an “elevated responsibility” for industry professionals to not only deliver on the security film needs of schools and educational institutions, but also to manage the expectations of anxious parents and administrators. He outlines three main phases necessary for a successful security film project. 

Addressing the “Big Three”

Unlike other types of window film, selling and installing security film comes with an added layer of complexity. Prospective customers often need to be informed of the solutions in best alignment with the type of defense they’re seeking to optimally safeguard a building’s occupants. This conversation reflects the first phase of Franson’s big three: Presentation, site assessment, and installation services.

The following is an excerpt taken from Jeff Franson’s article published in Window Film Magazine.

When presenting security window films, it’s critical that dealers clearly state what security films will and will not do. Within the industry, we all know window films (and advanced glazing) are not “bulletproof.” Nothing is. Unfortunately, prospects have other ideas based on video of dubious origin across the Internet. The best way to avoid this pitfall is to make sure to ask the customer what their threat level is – what they are trying to defend against? You also need to know what their budget is.

If they’re looking to ‘stop’ bullets, it’s time for you to refer to a ballistic glazing expert or invest in becoming one yourself. If the customer’s goal is ‘delay,’ then security window films are an effective and affordable part of any layered defense plan for buildings. If delay is the goal, then you’re the right person for the job. Still, don’t forget The Golden Rule for selling security window film performance – under promise – because creating a false sense of security could be deadly.

Once security window film has been identified as the proper solution intended to “delay” an attacker from entering a space, it’s time to confirm that the existing glass and glazing systems are suitable for anchored film protection. If you care about your customer, you should advise them against installing security film for active shooter mitigation without the proper anchor to the frame. Without suitable frames, it’s your responsibility to refer the customer to a solution better suited for existing conditions. If you’re using a caulk anchor, make sure to perform an adhesion compatibility test to ensure the caulk with bond properly to the applied film and existing glazing frames. 

Once your assessment has confirmed the suitability of the anchored film solution, it’s time to go to work. Job number one on any security film project is to make sure your project manager confirms application and aesthetic standards with the customer representative responsible for sign-off. Too many projects go sideways when a customer’s expectations are not met – and that’s your fault – not theirs’. Utilize the third-party IWFA-provided worksheet for installation quality and curing standards. Provide a ‘mock-up’ of a completed window with anchor so everyone is on the same page concerning what the ‘finished product’ looks like. Once agreement is made, make sure the entire installation meets or exceeds the approved mock-up. 

An Expert Install

To follow a high level overview of the process to install anchored security window film to meet written standards and (hopefully) some helpful hints to ensure a smooth project for you, your customers, and installers. visit the article to see this installation process or contact Window Film Depot for more information.

3M™ Safety & Security Window Films, Safety Series for Commercial

Window Security Film Installation Cost & Price Estimates

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While a lot of people are interested in installing window security film in their home or office, price is often the number one obstacle. This is completely understandable, as you’re entitled to a quality service that doesn’t break the bank. Fortunately, the typical window film installation cost is actually much lower than most people expect. This article will run through the average window security film installation cost and the best place to get a quality job done.

How Much Does Window Security Film Installation Cost?

As with most of these types of questions, the answer is ‘it depends’. There are several different factors that go into determining the price of a job. These include the size in square feet, scope of the work involved, type of window film selected, and the difficulty of installation. We’ll go through each of these points and outline how they’ll impact your final security film installation cost.

Residential Cost Determined by Square Footage

The typical window security film installation cost for residential properties is $6-$8 per square foot. While the majority of homes will fall in this range, some can dip as low as $5 per square foot, whereas others may even reach $20 per square foot. Decorative window tint and security window films will tend to cost much more than solar control window films.

Warranty, product clarity, and longevity are also key factors that can impact the security film for windows cost. Llumar and Vista frames tend to be the most reliable on the market, meaning they cost a higher initial price. That said, this initial expenditure can be made up with long-term savings in the form of less frequent repairs and maintenance costs.

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Other Window Security Film Installation Cost Factors to Consider

While the square feet size of the installation is probably the most heavily-weighted factor, there are certainly other considerations involved. Most notably, you’ll need to consider the cost for a clean, professional installation, and the time involved. A typical job with 2-3 glass panes can generally be completed within the hour.

The frame type is also a consideration, with wood frames costing more than vinyl ones, for example. Larger-than-average windows can also complicate the installation process, requiring larger film sizes and multiple installers that will increase the price. Second and 3rd story windows also tend to be more expensive, in large part due to the scaffolding and ladders that are required.

Conclusion

The typical residential window security film installation cost will be around $7-$8 per square foot. An example of a common job would be sliding glass patio doors with 2 glass panes that use neutral window film and have a lifetime warranty. This type of job will generally be completed within 45 minutes and will likely cost between $175-$250.

If you’re after a reliable installation team that can get your security film installation done efficiently and effectively, feel free to contact us today.