Window tinting for your house might not be on your usual list of upgrades, but maybe it should be. In recent years energy costs have not been favorable to your average homeowners. Google says that in 2023 alone Ohio saw energy rates rise over 100% from causes like electricity market auctions, rising fuel costs, and inflation. While this reason could speak to the importance of home window tinting, there are other benefits and use cases to consider. In today’s blog, we will explore those benefits, discuss potential drawbacks, and highlight other factors to consider before you call Preston Sun Control to have your home window tinting scheduled.
The Benefits Of Home Window Tinting
1. Energy Efficiency
Tinting windows can block up to 85% of solar heat. This reduces the workload on your home HVAC system. Films exist to benefit you in the colder months by offering better insulation from heat escaping. By flattening the curve of your climate at home you can save a significant amount of money on your energy bills.
2. UV Protection
When you hear UV protection, your first thought is how the sun’s harmful rays can damage your skin. A lesser-known fact about UV rays is the damage they cause to your home and décor. If you are curious about why your new sofa or priceless painting is fading, it’s because of UV damage from the sun. Home window tinting treatments protect everything in the home including you.
3. Increased Comfort
We have all been here, you bought the perfect recliner or new couch and spent hours deciding on the best layout for your entertainment area only to have the afternoon sun roll around and shoot a glare into the corner of your eye of onto your TV screen. What if we told you that you could keep your perfect layout and simply reduce or get rid of the glare? That is one of the benefits home window tinting can offer you.
4. Enhanced Privacy
You may know that window tint is available in different levels of opacity and reflectiveness. You can protect yourself, your home, and your furniture from the elements while also adding privacy for your whole family. This is quite useful in tight neighborhoods where homes are close together. This is also great for homes with large windows as you can retain the amount of natural light while upgrading your privacy at the same time. No more giant shades!
5. The Aesthetics
The varying levels of opacity, reflectiveness, and color can really make your home stand out. There are options for sleek, subtle, or neutral finishes which can add to your home’s curb appeal.
What are the Potential Drawbacks of Home Window Tinting?
While the benefits section could go on and on, we should also discuss some of the downsides to consider before making a decision.
1. Initial Cost
While on the lower end of the spectrum for home renovations or upgrades, there is an initial cost that may be a barrier for some homeowners. The bigger your home or windows in the home, the higher your costs will be to receive home window tinting. If you are not factoring in the energy savings and quality of life improvements, it can be easy to get hung up on the cost.
2. Maintenance
Windows that have been tinted require additional maintenance to keep their appearance and functionality. Abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals will also need to be avoided so you may have to change up your normal window cleaning routine. Pro-tip, dish soap, and warm water are always a good option for cleaning your windows.
3. Limited Lifespan
Even the highest quality window tint films can’t last forever. While reputable brands like LLumar offer a lifetime warranty, that is not consistent across all manufacturers. Preston Sun Control uses LLumar products because of how well the company stands behind its products. This is something that should be considered when making your purchasing decisions or comparing quotes.
Factors to Consider Before Tinting Your Windows
1. Local Climate
Are you from Florida? Get home window tinting. Is your home surrounded by trees that make it difficult for sunlight to penetrate your home? Well, then you can make a case for skipping out on the tinting. While in more rural areas or cooler climates your energy savings may not be as drastic, they will never be zero.
2. Home Orientation
Which way do your windows face? South-facing and West-facing windows receive typically receive the most sunlight which makes them prime candidates for treatments. If you are worried about the cost of tinting the windows in your home, consider only tinting the windows that are affected the most.
3. Type of Window Film
Take some time to look at all the different options available to you. Work with a professional to understand the benefits of each to find the perfect fit for the goals you have for your home.
4. Professional vs DIY Installation
You can go on Amazon right now and get a DIY kit for just about anything, it is no different with home window tinting. Be warned, while it is a simple task, it is very easy to compromise the quality of the finish. Poorly applied films will bubble or peel which reduces their effectiveness and ruins the aesthetics. If you invest in professional installation, you may be entitled to warranties on top guarantee the application is done properly.
Conclusion
So, is it worth it to tint house windows? For many homeowners, the answer is an absolute yes. The energy savings, enhanced privacy, and increased comfort make house window tinting an attractive investment. Make sure to assess your budget, climate, and specific home needs before making a purchase.
If you are ready to enhance your home with tinted windows, consult a professional installer like Preston Sun Control to explore your options and ensure the best results.