Window Insulation Film Can Get You Through A Sweltering Summer

If you live through sweltering summers and rely on your air conditioner, you can likely benefit from installing window insulation film. Most people want to open their curtains on a bright, sunny afternoon to allow the light to filter indoors. Doing so, however, raises the temperature, sometimes to unbearable levels, and the glare can do some serious damage to your interior as well. Window film helps eliminate several problems associated with harmful UV rays, and the price is extremely affordable.

The main reason for installing window film insulation is to reduce indoor temperatures during hot days. Up to a 70% heat reduction is reported for several types of films, and that means lower energy bills, a more comfortable living environment, and sunshine streaming in without the sweat. For pet owners, this can be especially comforting on extremely hot days when leaving your animal outside is not an option, and you can't afford to leave the air conditioner running. While the film can also help retain more heat during winter, it is not nearly as effective in significantly lowering the bills or improving indoor climate.

Heat isn't the only problem during hot summer months. Glare from the sun, especially windows facing office desks, televisions, or reading areas, can make activities much more difficult. Not only is the glare a nuisance, but it can cause strain on your eyes, resulting in headaches and difficulty focusing on the task at hand. Over time, this glare can become strong enough to even fade furnishings such as carpet, hardwood floors, fabrics, and even valuable paintings and photographs. The discoloration is plainly visible when compared to nearby surfaces. Window film can help block out excessive light, allowing enough in to brighten the room, but not so much that it becomes a problem.

Film can be self-installed, but if you have oddly shaped or high-placed windows, it is easier to have a professional perform the job. Cutting the film can be tricky, and most stores won't refund or exchange if you've made an error. Warranties are available on many products, so shop around to find the best deals. The most common reason for damage to the film is inclement weather; so if you live in a location with common storms or high winds, look for longer guarantees. The insulation, however, doesn't lose effectiveness over time, and can last for decades if protected from the elements.

There are several financial incentives to choosing window film insulation as well. Not only is installation fairly inexpensive (do-it-yourself kits can be found at most large hardware stores), but also the government offers a 10% tax credit with a total maximum of up to $500. And with reduced energy bills, most people can expect to save a couple of hundred dollars a year, and up to thousands after ten. Some window film insulation comes with the added benefit of increasing glass strength. Breakage and shattering are less likely, which can be important if you have a sports-loving family playing ball in the yard.