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Q: We live in a 2-year-old condo with west-facing
windows. The afternoon sun is very bright and hot at times. Someone told me
that you can have a film professionally applied to the inside of the windows
that will still allow all the light to come in, but will cut the ultraviolet
rays and it will stay a little cooler in summer and keep it a little warmer
in winter, as well as cutting down on sun fade for carpet, etc. Do you know
anything about this and if it really helps? What should we look for in a
product, and how do we find a reliable installer? --Eleanor S.
A: There is actually a wide range of window films
that can be applied to your windows, including ones that will block UV rays
and heat from entering, while actually helping to reduce heat loss back through
the glass, so you also get some benefit in the winter. Depending on your
needs, you can get films that are completely clear or ones that are tinted so
that people on the outside can't look in.
To find an installer, check the Yellow Pages under
"Windows -- Tinting." As with hiring any person to work on your
house, you need to make sure that the company you hire is properly licensed,
bonded and insured. Ask that they make a site visit to examine your windows,
and that they bring samples of the different films. Also, ask for local
references of people they have worked for so that you can see some of these
films in an actual house, and also check on how the past client felt about
the company. Finally, be sure you get at least two competitive estimates;
make sure that you fully understand the price, warranty, and services they're
providing; and be sure you get everything in writing.
There are a couple of other things to be aware of.
With many types of insulated-glass windows, the application of a tinting film
can void the window's warranty. Be sure that you ask the tinting companies
about that, and also check with the window manufacturer to verify what you're
being told. Also, window films can be something of a gray area with condo
associations. Technically, the condo association owns the window, and a
window film is usually considered an alteration of the window itself, not
just a window covering. So before you install a film, be sure to check with
your condo association to avoid any conflicts.
If it turns out that a tinting film is not a viable
option for you, you can also install interior or exterior roll-up sun shades
that will accomplish the same goals.
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