Visual Differences Between Window Film and Solar Screens
When I first moved here from Minnesota, I was curious to why people had their homes boarded up. I thought "they don't have hurricanes" so why does their house look like the are preparing for one.
I then learned they were solar screens (aka sun screens and sun shades) and were used to keep the heat out. Of course, working with window film for over 26 years, I thought - why don't they use
window film and make their homes look more visually appealing?
More and more
Arizona residence are understanding the true benefits of
window film vs solar screens. Let us start with the basics -- visuals:
The windows on the left have window film applied to them, while the windows on the right have 80% solar screens applied. Can you see the difference?
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| View Through Solar Screen |
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| View Through Window Film |
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The picture on the left represents a window with Solar Screens. The view is not clear and is not very visually appealing.
The picture on the right has window film applied to the right window only. As you can literally see, they view does NOT change and the glare is reduced enhancing your views even more.
EXTERIOR VIEW
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| Solar Screens |
The home looks boarded up and not visually appealing. Solar Screens do offer daytime privacy; however window films to do too.
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| Window Film |
This home has LLumar DR15 applied. The final appearance is that of expensive glass. As you can see, this also allows daytime privacy, without looking boarded up.
Third Party Testing of Both Products
Solar Screens are NOT tested by a third party, so how do you REALLY know what they are selling you works (heat rejection, UV protection)
LLumar and Vista windows films ARE tested by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which is a third party organization that tests the energy efficiency of doors, windows, window film, and skylights. This means the information you receive is tested by a third party source! You will find testing of our products under the CPFilm information.
Here is a link to an article about NFRC and Window Film: click here for the article
Warranty
Reputable Solar Screen manufacturers have a 10 year warranty that includes replacement of your screen material.
LLumar and Vista window films have a LIFETIME warranty that covers everything - not just material (10-15 year warranty for commercial applications). Our window films have never had an adhesive failure, so replacing them should not occur; however, if it does need replacement there is no out of pocket expense to you!
Longevity
Next time you are driving around, look at the Solar Screens. You can tell when they start to fail, which is generally between 5-15 years (depending on manufacturer). They are more than likely not under warranty, so now you have to replace them at full price.
LLumar and Vista Window Films will last as long as your windows are functional. They are designed to withstand the Arizona heat by having UV protectors in the adhesive and the film which allows longevity! Even if they do fail - guess what, you're covered!
More Questions!
Call us today if you want to learn more about the differences between Solar Screens and Window Film. We always offer free estimates and bring samples with so you can be rest assured that you will get what you want!
Check out our website to learn more about us. You can schedule an estimate (or submit your sizes for an online estimate) using our Contact Us tab, or call us at 623-570-5585.
Benefits!
