Installing UV protectant film on home windows

[Jazzbass]

Anyone here installed (or had installed) UV protectant film on the windows in their house? This was mentioned to us by a decorator after seeing how some of out furniture had faded after years of sunlight exposure.

I've heard that some of the film turns reflective at night so that you can't see out, which would be horrible. Also heard that it's difficult to install, but I think I could overcome that. And thoughts/experiences? Thanks.

[VaSteve]

Here's some advice.... I never got around to it myself. Decorator?

http://dorkiphus.net/porsche/showthread.php?t=28624&highlight=Tint

[onboost]

I have film on my patio doors at the rear of the house. We get a lot of sun and it used to literally change the color of the floor.

The film has been great, in the daylight I can stand in the door and you can't see me standing there.. at night one can see in a little better but it is still somewhat muted although I can see out just fine.

I've had the film since 2010/11. If I can find the receipt or business card I will post the info as I've been very pleased.

[cmartin]

As mentioned in Vag's link I'm very happy with what I had installed. It make a big difference in the temp in my office, big window and skylight were done. There were several options to choose from and although its a little different from the non-treated windows my place doesnt look like an office building either.

[Dr K]

Similar to onboost, but we think we've had continued fading. Prior to film, RUINED our piano. We have 3M product, it is more reflective at night but not like a mirror. Individual panes on French doors, but for windows (it's just in our living room) we put it on the storms so it's a single sheet - much simpler installation.

I can get the further info if you want. We're around this weekend if you want to see it in "action."

[ducatithunder]

The film has been great, in the daylight I can stand in the door and you can't see me standing there..

http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/225835/107540027/stock-photo-funny-picture-of-an-overweight-man-pinching-his-own-nipples-while-standing-their-nude-107540027.jpg

Sorry .. couldnt resist. :lol::vomit:

[KFJ]

We had the entire house done last year and it has been great. As mentioned, you cannot see in during the day at all (unless it is overcast and there's a light on inside). It keeps the house considerably cooler. It is reflective at night from inside (if you have a light on) but once I paid attention I realized that non-coated windows are too.

I wouldn't do the job myself (and you know I like to do my own work) because I would fuch it up 25% of the time. I have a great guy that gave me a good deal if you decide to have someone do it for you.

[Lupin..the..3rd]

Anyone here installed (or had installed) UV protectant film on the windows in their house? This was mentioned to us by a decorator after seeing how some of out furniture had faded after years of sunlight exposure.

I've heard that some of the film turns reflective at night so that you can't see out, which would be horrible. Also heard that it's difficult to install, but I think I could overcome that. And thoughts/experiences? Thanks.

This stuff is the greatest, I put it in the bedroom at my old place. The bedroom had huge windows facing east, so tons of morning sun. I'd wake up every day at sunrise, covered in sweat from the heat of the sun, it was like a greenhouse in there.

After applying the film, it was like a miracle, nice and cool inside even in direct summer sun. The film works and it works well.

I applied it myself, and it was a big PITA, took several tries to get the hang of it, and it was still a big PITA. I'd gladly pay an installer next time. It goes on just like the window tinting in a car, spray bottle, squeegee, razor blade. The difficulty comes from dealing with the huge size of the pieces (as compared to car windows) and the fact that it comes rolled up. When you un-roll it, it has a memory, and it wants to roll itself back up. Quite tricky when it's all wet and sticky, you need four arms to do it well and avoid ruining the piece.

[dnwong]

I have been doing my house over the last few weeks. Once you get the hang of it, it is pretty straight forward. Just make sure you keep everything clean. Scrape the glass with a razor to clean all the dirt off and clean the windows frame and sills before applying. Then its a matter of working most of the soapy water out (johnson's baby shampoo) and cutting the edges with a sharp knife.

Takes me 10 mins a window.

[onboost]

http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/225835/107540027/stock-photo-funny-picture-of-an-overweight-man-pinching-his-own-nipples-while-standing-their-nude-107540027.jpg

Sorry .. couldnt resist. :lol::vomit:

Dohhh! :shock: I missed that!