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WINDOW FILM MYTHS
Window Film Experts Debunk Five Popular Myths
 “Traditionally, window tint, because of its dark and reflective look, has had lots of bad press as an unattractive, unappealing and purplish-looking film that did not fit well in classic and high-end interiors,” says Tamara De La Fuente, national communications officer of Huper Optik U.S.A. But this misperception, like many of the “myths” surrounding window film, is just that—a myth.
Harvey DeVane, owner/president of Custom Sun Control, concurs: “I've been in the window film industry for nearly 30 years and have been dealing with these myths and more for my entire career.”
In reality, window film offers numerous benefits, including blocking the sun’s heat and damaging ultraviolet rays, protecting furnishings and artwork from fading and providing energy savings—and, it’s just another opportunity for designers to provide their clients with even more options for their windows.
Here’s what the experts say about these common myths:
Myth 1: Window film will ruin my view.
“The latest generation of clear solar-control window films takes a major step beyond traditional dark tinted films, preserving the clarity of our windows and ensuring the aesthetic integrity of our homes. These spectrally selective films block up to 55 percent of the sun’s oppressive heat and 99 percent of its damaging ultraviolet radiation. At the same time, these films offer improved winter insulation against heat loss, keeping us comfortable year round.”
—Daniel Venet, executive vice president, CHB Industries Inc.
Myth 2: Window film will bubble and peel.
“While in the past, and still today, there have been some low-quality products offered to the market, the quality-minded manufacturers and their dealers are supplying and installing new generations of high-tech solar control films with optical clarity and longevity. … To make their point, many of these new films are covered by manufacturer-backed lifetime warranties. These are not, so to speak, your grandfather’s window films. Select the proper film and have it installed by a skilled installer for a professional look.”
—Harvey DeVane, owner/president, Custom Sun Control
Myth 3: Window film is too expensive.
“Window film is an integral part of fine living, upgrading the performance of our windows in the same way that air conditioning enhances the enjoyment of our homes. In today’s energy-conscious environment, solar control window film represents a modest investment toward increasing comfort, saving energy dollars and preserving our furnishings, rugs, wood floors, pianos and art work from fading damage. Easily installed on the inside of our windows, window film can transform our glass-enclosed kitchens and solar rooms into bright, comfortable places which we can enjoy year-round. And with a lifespan that will provide years of protection, the value of this technology is clear and convincing.”
—Daniel Venet, CHB Industries Inc.
Myth 4. All window film is the same.
“Window films come in different formulations, price ranges and performance levels. Hüper Optik makes two different technologies to address a consumer’s needs—for example, a more reflective film with higher performance for commercial projects, or the highest visible light transmission possible for upscale interiors, vacation homes or LEED properties that require the use of daylight and multi-layer ceramic technologies for durability in coastal and marine environments.”
—Tamara De La Fuente, national communications officer, Huper Optik U.S.A.
Myth 5. Anyone can install window film.
“While anyone can install window film, not everyone can provide an invisible application that blends seamlessly. Without the proper tools and experience, the do-it-yourselfer will find enough residual water and dust to mar the beauty of his or her windows. Bubbles, peeling and errant scratches to window glass are the hallmark of well-intentioned but inexperienced installation efforts. The importance of our homes, and the beauty of the view from our windows demands that we use experienced, certified window film installers who can ensure the results we expect.”
—Daniel Venet, CHB Industries Inc.
Jennifer Jacob is assistant editor of Window Fashions. Reach her at jennifer@gracemcnamarainc.com.
Learn More
CHB Industries Inc.
chbwindowfilm.com
CPFilms Inc.
cpfilms.com
Custom Sun Control
customsuncontrol.com
Emma Jeffs
surfacematerialdesign.co.uk
Huper Optik U.S.A.
huperoptikusa.com
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