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Solar window film, also referred to as "window tinting" is a very thin film that can deliver big savings in your utility bills. Unlike the less attractive "solar screen" energy savers, window tinting will actually improve the outside appearance of your home. Like many energy saving products, there is an up front investment to consider, but eventually, the product will pay for itself. The flexible benefit of window tinting is a desirable addition to any home.

Tired of feeling captive to heavy window treatments that keep out summer heat while keeping winter heat inside? With window tinting, it does not matter what the temperature is on the outside of your home. These thin sheets of window tint serve other purposes when applied on the exterior of every window in your home, including doors and skylights. Frustrated with those unattractive spots of fading carpet near your windows? Or, how about your furniture, fabrics, wall paint and even your favorite artwork whose colors have started to fade? All of these items are expensive to replace. Window tinting will minimize those replacement costs.

How does window tinting perform its protective magic? Home window tinting film can reflect and absorb up to 70 percent of outside heat. It also blocks 99 percent of UV rays from the sun. Most window tinting film is a permanent installation and comes in a variety of colors, shades and reflectivity.

Colors like sterling, slate, smoke, autumn bronze, platinum and titanium will make the outside of your home unique in your neighborhood. Tinted shades come in an assortment of colors. Everyone has seen a modern building with windows that look like reflective mirrors. People inside the building can see out, but the rest of the world can only see the handsome reflection of a mirror, frosted shades or black. Important to note: A window covering is needed at night for privacy because the reflective powers of window tinting is lost without daylight.

There is also a safety benefit when selecting window tinting film. If a storm blows a tree branch through your window treated with the tinting film, the film provides shatter-resistance to any glass window or door. In case of accidental breakage, pressure sensitive adhesive bonds to the glass and holds dangerous fragments in place. The film is also resistant to water penetration providing another wall of protection around the outside of your home.

Price is determined by the size of the window, and the grade and color of tinting you choose. A ceramic grade tint offers a sharp, clear view that costs more than a lesser grade with not quite the same clarity. To receive the full warranty coverage of permanent window tinting, you will need to hire a certified installer. It is possible to perform the installation labor yourself, but some manufacturers will not honor their warranty if you do so. Check the manufacturer's warranty on any product you consider for a do-it-yourself project before making a purchase.

There is also a less permanent option in decorative, removable film that is easy to apply on the "inside" of a window with a damp sponge and squeegee. These less expensive film options can last for years or can be removed quickly after a short term purpose has been achieved.

Whatever your goals for your home may be: Improved energy savings, privacy, safety or improved curb appeal, you would be wise to consider the value of window tinting.

Learn more about this author, Diane Quinn .
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