Window to the world

Window to the World

 

Beauty, safety and energy savings. It’s amazing what a thin layer of window film can do for glass used in homes and buildings alike. Window film is an often overlooked means of energy efficiency and protection that combines practical function and aesthetic beauty. Many homeowners are unaware, have misconceptions of, or don’t fully understand the benefits of window film. This makes it critical for homebuilders to be educated on its advantages so that they can offer it to homeowners as a way to increase their own profits while giving buyers better efficiencies.

WHAT EXACTLY IS WINDOW FILM? 

Window film is a flexible product composed of one or more layers of coated or chemically treated polyester that can be installed on glass. It’s primarily used for retrofit applications to existing windows. There are many types of window film. Most fall into the solar control category. These films are designed to help protect a home or commercial building from the harmful effects of the sun including heat, fading and UV radiation. Other types of film include decorative, privacy and security. There are literally hundreds of options to choose from. 

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM WINDOW FILM?

Anyone from residential homeowners to commercial building owners/tenants can benefit from window film. Window film can save money on electric bills, protect people from harmful UV rays that can cause skin-related issues including cancer and they can protect valuable interiors by helping to reduce fading. 

What are some of the other benefits of window film?

• Reduce the amount of heat that transmits through glass windows and doors;
• Make homes and buildings more energy efficient in summer and winter;
• Reduce glare and enhance visibility;
• Increase privacy in the home;
• Block up to 99 percent of harmful UV rays;
• Help hold glass shards together if broken; and
• Help reduce fading of flooring and furnishings. 

DOES WINDOW FILM HELP SAVE MONEY?

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that one-third of a building’s cooling load is from solar heat gain through windows, and nearly 75 percent of existing windows are not energy efficient. Professionally installed window film can reduce cooling costs by up to 30 percent. 

In the winter, the film helps retain interior heat, reducing heating costs. Many window films can qualify for “green” credits, and energy rebates helping homeowners become more energy efficient while reducing costs.

IS WINDOW FILM EASY TO MAINTAIN?

Windows with film applied are easy to clean with a soft, non-abrasive, clean cloth, paper towel or synthetic sponge. Be sure to use a standard, non-abrasive glass cleaning solution. Once the glass is cleaned, it’s important to use a soft cloth or squeegee for drying purposes. 

HOW LONG WILL THE FILM LAST?

The effective life of window film will vary by the type of film, the type of glass, window construction, and environmental and climate conditions. However, most solar control films are warranted for residential use for as long as the homeowner owns the property. Commercial warranties vary, but standard interior applications usually carry a minimum of a 10-year warranty. Check with each manufacturer for the specific warranty terms for each product they offer. 

WILL THE FILM HELP PROTECT FURNISHINGS?

Nothing can eliminate fading completely. However, window film can significantly slow the effects of heat and UV that are main causes of fading of flooring, fabrics and furnishings. And, contrary to popular belief, installing window film will not kill house plants. Although plants may initially need time to adjust to the light change, they should resume regular growth after a few days. 

While architects, consultants and remodelers can use window film in retrofit applications on existing glass, it should also be high on the list of enhancements for new homebuilders. Builders can use standard windows and install window film to improve their performance.

Greater efficiency. More comfort. A possible energy rebate for the homeowner. Potentially more profits for the home builder. Combining all of those benefits makes window film a wise investment.

Huper-Optik window films qualify for tax credits

Congress Extends Tax Credit For Energy Saving Window Film

The International Window Film Association Educates Consumers On How To Take Advantage of the $500 Tax Credit

January 06, 2015 09:17 AM Eastern Standard Time

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Window Film is eligible for tax credits recently extended by Congress and the tax incentive can cover up to 10 percent of the cost of the installation of window films to a maximum of $500, reports the International Window Film Association (IWFA). The one-year retroactive tax credit may allow taxpayers to claim the incentives on their 2014 returns filed in 2015.

“We are delighted that Congress recently passed HR 5771 that includes tax incentives for energy efficient home improvements, such as installing window film,” said Darrell Smith, executive director of the nonprofit IWFA. To make people more aware about the many benefits of window films the IWFA offers informational videos available at www.iwfa.com and free consumer booklets.

As a long-term and cost-effective solution for saving energy, window film qualifies in the legislation as part of a building’s ‘insulation envelope’. It can reduce energy consumption from solar heat gain in summer or reflect interior heat back inside in winter, while allowing in natural light without the negative impact of UV exposure. Year-round, window film can help to control glass breakage and may prevent glass shards from hurting people. Consumers should check with their window film installer or smanufacturer to determine if their product qualifies under the tax incentive program.

While reducing our energy use and an energy user’s overall carbon footprint, some energy-efficient changes require significant investment, but window film has been shown to be a cost-effective means of improving energy performance. Window Film is also part of the California building code, in part due to its recognition for offering a high-value, low-cost method for saving energy.

About the International Window Film Association

The International Window Film Association (IWFA) is a unified industry body of window film dealers, distributors, and manufacturers that facilitates the growth of the industry by providing unbiased research, influencing policy and promoting awareness of window film. The organization builds alliances with trade associations, utilities and government agencies to advance dealers’ and distributors’ businesses and provide value to their customers. Join the IWFA on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Evans, Ga homeowners save energy and block harmful UV with window film.

International Window Film Association (IWFA) — yeah, I didn’t realize that existed — reported last week that “a comprehensive analysis of window film found it to be the most cost-effective energy saving choice for Californians when used in retrofit applications on homes and buildings.” Interesting.

Energy & Financial Savings

The paypack period for window film was identified to be less than two years, with up to 70% return on investment (ROI). Of course, construction details, location, and window film used have an effect on the matter and can alter the energy savings and ROI.

Window Film’s Benefits

How does wind film help? Window film reduces solar heat gain while still letting in light. As a result, it lowers residents’ and businesses’ air conditioning and lighting costs. Window film also helps to cut out glare and UV exposure.

Combine window film with some white roofs and energy-efficient appliancesyou’ll have a pretty rockin’ electricity bill!

The Window Film Analysis

The analysis, conducted by ConSol, “compared installing window film on existing structures in the state to other traditional energy saving techniques such as updating HVAC systems, air sealing and caulking, and adding R-38 ceiling insulation, and found that window film came out ahead.”

“With over 70 percent of the buildings and homes in the California market having been constructed before 1980, window film has to be high on the list for every building retrofit project across the state,” said Mike Hodgson, president of ConSol.