What are the Different Types of Window Films

A window film is a film made from polyester which when applied to glass windows, serves many purposes. If we look at the basic structure of a window film, we'll see that it consists of three layers: the adhesive layer that helps attach the film to the glass window, the polyester film, and the scratch resistant layer. If the film is tinted, it indicates addition of coloring agents to the polyester film.

Whether it is privacy you're looking for, or protection from the harmful rays of the sun, or simply a trendy look for your windows, a window film is all you need. Moreover, window films are easy to install and maintain, and are easy on the pocket too! However, it is important to note that there's a different type of window film for each purpose. Hence, it is essential that before choosing a particular type of window film, you know exactly what you want out of it.

Once you are clear about what you want your window film to do for you, it will be easier for you to select a suitable one from the following types of window films.

This is, by far, the most commonly used window film, as most people prefer something that protects their homes from excessive heat and cold, during the summer and winter months respectively. This, in turn, reduces the load on air conditioners and heaters, thereby reducing the electricity bills by a significant amount.

The insulating window film also minimizes glare and blocks harmful UV rays from entering the house. Its major drawback, like most window films, is that it reduces the amount of light entering the room.

Sometimes, apartments are located close together and one family may end up with a room that directly faces that of a neighbor. In such a scenario, privacy window films can come to one's rescue! You can choose this type of film for your bathroom window or that of any other room.

You can either go for one that is tinted (in varying shades of black) or choose a frosted window film that allows light to pass through, yet makes room for privacy as well. However, remember that a tinted one blocks the UV rays.

As the name suggests, this type of window film is meant for providing security by making the glass tougher and more resistant to breakage or other damages. Also, in case the glass is shattered, the film holds the shards together to prevent them from getting scattered all around and injuring the occupants.

These films are free of tint, yet almost completely block UV rays. The window films used in the display section outside shops, are of this type. Research is on for the manufacture of films that are resistant against bullets.

The purpose of using decorative window films is to give your windows a brand new look. You can find window films that appear similar to stained glass, textured glass and more. A stained glass window film in a beautiful design, for example, can add oodles of aesthetic appeal and beauty to your room, and make it appear interesting.

What's more, it blocks UV rays and offers some amount of privacy as well! The most interesting fact about decorative window films is that they are reusable, i.e. you can easily take them off one window and put it on another.

Have you ever come across windows that appear to be mirrored on the outside? They look beautiful, don't they? Well, you'd be glad to know that you can have such windows in your own home. Just look for solar window films and once you get hold of one, apply it on your windows and voila! You'll have mirror windows! Solar window films offer privacy during daytime, and provide protection from UV rays along with reduction of glare, to a great extent.

Blackout window films are called so because these films, when applied on windows, make the room so dark that one can hardly see anything. Since these films prevent any light from entering the room, these are used in darkrooms where photographic prints are developed.

As mentioned earlier, window films come in different varieties and offer benefits ranging from providing security to your home to adding aesthetic appeal to your windows. Here's a quick look at the benefits you get by using a window film.

• Blocks ultraviolet (UV) rays and prevents them from entering the house, thus protecting your valuable furniture from discoloration.
• Using a film on your windows offers you the privacy you desire.

• Some films act as insulators and trap the heat inside during winters and block the outside heat during summers. This helps you save on heating and air conditioning costs.
• You even get films that protect the window glass from getting shattered in the event of a storm.
• Decorative films can lend creative looks to your windows.

In addition to this, window films come with a warranty of 8-10 years, which means that you need not worry about replacing them every now and then. Also, films come in a wide range of colors for you to choose from, and some of them are reusable too!

This was a brief look at the different types of window films. So what would you want a window film for? Find an answer to this question and then find one that is just right for your home!