Keep rooms cooler with heat control window film
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How the film works
Heat control film is composed of
treated micro-thin layers of film
that block ultraviolet rays and
reduce the summer heat that
comes through the window.
If you have room that gets too hot from direct sunlight, consider installing a heat control window film to keep the room cooler. These films reflect the sun’s heat
and ultraviolet rays, and
reduce glare without
obscuring the view (see
photo). The more direct
sunlight coming through
the window, the more
the film will help (and it
may lower your air-conditioning
bills!).
Different types of film are available, so
get the one designed for heat control. The
film can be applied to any window, including
double-pane low-e windows, although
they already reduce radiant heat loss and gain.
One drawback is that the film may void
the manufacturer’s warranty for the seal
on double-pane windows, although the
film representatives we talked to said the
film shouldn’t affect the seal. If the window
warranty has already expired or
reducing excessive heat is more important
to you than possibly jeopardizing a warranty, then apply the film. Otherwise,
consider other options, such as installing
shades, awnings or shutters over the
windows or even planting a tree on the
west side to block the sun.
Buying and installing window film
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Installing window film
Window film can
be installed in
about 30 minutes.
The hazy
appearance will
disappear after
10 days.
You can install the film yourself. Applying the film takes
approximately 30 minutes
per window. It should last
about 10 years. Prices
vary with film size. A
3-ft. x 15-ft. film (which
can cover two to three
windows) costs about $30. The film is sold at
home centers and hardware stores. Gila is
one company that makes heat control film
(www.gilafilms.com).
