7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing Window Tints for Homes
Window tinting can keep your home safe, so you should know about the options in your area. Here are questions to ask before choosing window tints for homes.
Do you automatically think of your car when you hear the phrase "tinted windows?" Did you know that window tints for homes are an option too?
While auto tinting is popular, especially here in sunny Georgia, your car isn't the only thing you need to protect.
Consider this fact: There's one burglary in the US every 13 seconds. It takes a thief less than two seconds to break a window and gain access to your home.
Protective window tint can increase that time to two minutes—along with the odds that the burglar abandons his plan altogether.
What are some other reasons you might consider window tints for your home? What questions should you ask yourself and a professional window tint installer?
Here's a list of considerations to get you started.
1. What Are My Window Tinting Goals?
Are you looking for an all-in-one window film, or do you have specific goals in mind?
The most popular reasons homeowners install window tint include:
- Blocked UV radiation
- Improved energy efficiency
- Enhanced home security
- Reduced glare
- Better temperature regulation year-round
- Avoid fading/cracking of furniture and flooring
- Affordable alternative to window replacement
- Improved aesthetic appearance/curb appeal
Sit down and figure out your main reasons for wanting window tint, as this will determine the best type of film for your home.
Are you concerned about lowering your heating and cooling bills? You'll want to look for the latest energy-efficient window tint that will keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Is crime a problem in your area? Security films make it harder for passersby to see inside your home. No one will be tempted to break in and steal something valuable if they don't know it's there!
Is UV radiation your biggest concern? Solar films will block out the majority of the sun's harmful rays, keeping your skin and your belongings safe from damage.
2. What Are the Different Types of Window Tint?
Window tints vary from nearly invisible to dark and reflective (and everything in between). As mentioned above, they can also be geared more for energy efficiency or enhanced security—or both.
Common types of window tint include:
- Ceramic
- Spectrally-selective
- Dual-reflective
- Low emissivity
- Neutral
- Safety & security
- Atmosphere exterior
Some window tints are purely decorative, while others are designed to reduce glare, reject heat, or boost home security. The type of film you'll choose ultimately depends on your budget and your motives.
3. What's My Window Tinting Budget?
This one can be deceptive until you consider window tinting for what it is—a long-term investment in your home.
Yes, there's an upfront cost to install the tint. But when you factor in a lower energy bill for years to come, the tint will more than pay for itself in savings.
Start by determining how much you can spend on the project, then consider the types of window tints that fit your budget. Get estimates from different tinting companies in your area and select the one that strikes the balance between high quality and affordability.
4. What Type of Windows Do I Have?
In general, most types of window tint will work on the majority of home windows. If you have standard windows made from heat-treated, annealed, or insulating glass, you shouldn't have any issues applying window film.
Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. You might want to avoid solar tint if your home has:
- Insulated glass windows that are more than 10 years old
- Clear annealed glass more than 3/8" thick
- Tinted annealed glass more than 1/4" thick
Check the manufacturer's guidelines or call your local tinting company if you have any questions. Keep in mind that window tint could also be tricky (if not impossible) to install on antique or stained glass windows.
5. Are My Windows Under an Existing Warranty?
Here's a factor you probably haven't considered yet. If your home's windows are under manufacturer warranty, installing tint could void that warranty!
Many manufacturers won't cover damage or defects if you've applied film to your glass panes. Before you make your final decision, check your warranty to see if it supports window tint application.
6. Which Windows Do I Want to Tint?
If your budget allows, tinting all the windows in your home will provide energy savings and added protection for your family. If you can only tint some windows, select the ones that receive the most direct sunlight or are at higher risk for a break-in attempt.
Remember that tinting isn't limited to your exterior windows either. Could you enhance the glass in your bathroom, kitchen, or closet with decorative window tint?
7. Should I Hire a Window Tint Installer?
If you're the DIY type (or on a very tight budget), you might be tempted to buy the film and apply it yourself.
Don't risk it. No matter how careful you are, there's sure to be dirt, wrinkles, bubbles, or other visible imperfections. Even worse, you could scratch or damage the underlying glass.
Even if means paying a little more, leave this job for the pros. They'll ensure it's done right the first time.
Where to Find the Best Window Tints for Homes
Window tints for homes are a solid investment, but there are still plenty of factors to consider.
What are your motivations for wanting tinted windows? What types of windows do you have, and what type of tint do you want? Do you have budget concerns or existing warranties to factor into your decision?
Hopefully, after reviewing all these questions, you've decided to go ahead with your window tinting plans. If you're in the Atlanta area, we're at your service!
Click here to ask us anything or to request a free estimate. You can rest assured that your windows are in good hands with Solar Works Glass Tinting.
