Top
What
Is Window Film?
What
are the benefits?
What
kind of warranty does
it have?
How
much does it typically
cost?
Are
there specification
sheets I can see for performance details?
How
long have you
been installing window film?
Where
can I find
additional product information?
Do
you install Safety and
Security films?
Can I use Safety
film to bring
my existing window to building codes?
How
do I clean my
windows after the film is installed?
What
methods of
payment do you accept?
Who
do I contact for a FREE estimate?
Is
your product better than the "Do It Yourself" kits
from the store?
Will window film cause glass to break?
Will window film affect my house plants?
Does
the film go on the inside of my house windows?
Can
I install window film
on "Skylites"?
What if I
get paint on my window film while repainting window trim?
I would
like to have "One Way" window film for privacy. Is this possible?
What Is Window Film?
LLumar and Vista window film is a laminate of high
performance
metallized
polyester film that provides significant solar insulation when applied
to glass surfaces. LLumar and Vista films are manufactured using a
state of the art sputtering process that
applies metal alloys to a base film. Layers are assembled and finished
with a strong scratch-resistant coating.
LLumar and Vista films are available in reflective and non-reflective
finishes and can be clear, colored, or patterned to blend with various
design schemes. Depending on the film
selected, LLumar and Vista films can cut from 12 to 93 percent of
incoming
light, eliminate 99% to 99.9% of the harmful ultraviolet radiation to
protect
fabrics and finishes, block 92% of glare and cut up to 87% of solar
heat gain through the glass.
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What are the Benefits?
Increase
Comfort by Reducing Heat and Glare
Working in an office or relaxing at home in direct sunlight can result
in fatigue, eyestrain and loss of concentration. Llumar and Vista is a
retrofit
product installed directly to the
interior side of
the glass. It helps
correct temperature imbalances between sunny and shady areas and it
deflects harsh, uncomfortable glare. Employees are more comfortable and
more productive
Reduce
Heating and
Cooling Costs
Winter heat loss through windows can cause discomfort to building
occupants and unnecessarily high energy bills. Low emissivity
insulating film applied to the inside face of ordinary single-glazed
windows decreases heat loss by up to 30%. In summer LLumar and Vista
films reduce
the cost of cooling a building by rejecting up to 87% of the sun's heat.
Help
Prevent
Premature Fading
Over time, the rays of the sun fade whatever is in their path. But
professionally installed Llumar and Vista film blocks out 99% to 99.9%
of the damaging
ultraviolet rays that ordinary windows allow in. That means that
draperies, furniture, upholstery and carpeting will last longer.
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What kind of warranty
does it have?
Llumar and Vista window film offers both residential and commercial
written warranties from the manufacturer. Residential film warranties
are limited lifetime for as long as you live in your home.
Commercial
warranties depend on the film type, but most come with a ten year
written manufacturers warranty. (
Please
ask for additional details on
all guidelines for this warranty).
Warranties are left with each customer upon completion and payment of
work. Your warranty is not transferable to the next building owner.
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How much does it typically
cost?
Every job can vary due to window style, frame construction,
accessiblity and the type of film selected. It is better to contact our
office for a representative to come to your home or business for a
FREE on site
quote. However, many are pleasantly suprised at how inexpensive window
film can be. Especially when you compare it to the cost of replacing a
couch, oriental rug or wood flooring.
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Are there
specification sheets I can see for performance details?
Yes. If you click on the links provided at the top of the page. Here
you will be able to
download a
data performance sheet for each line of window film. Feel free to print
the data sheet and contact us with any questions.
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How long have you
been installing window film?
We have been installing window film since
1978. Actually, we were the first in the Roanoke area who began to
professionally install window film on cars and then buildings. Many
things have changed in relation to window film technology
and technique of installation. Solar Control Films employs the latest
techniques and uses only the best film on the market. Our film line is
manufactured by CP Films in Martinsville Virginia, the world's largest
window film manufacturer.
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Where can I find
additional product information?
Visit the websites for Llumar and Vista
window film by clicking on the links listed at the top of this page.
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Do you install Safety
and Security films?
Yes. We use Llumar Magnum series film
which is internationally recognized for it's product safety standards
and varied applications. Llumar Magnum films come in thicknesses from
4mil to 15mil. Some of the films even employ tint technology for added
benefits. If you live in an area of severe weather or a hostile
evnironment,
Llumar Magnum film may be just what you need to provide the additional
safety and security.
We also carry Anti Graffiti film to protect mirrors, doors and
partitions within commercial settings. Contact us for more details on
this exclusive product.
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Can I use Safety film to bring my
existing window to building codes?
Yes. Many people find out that during a remodel job they must bring
some windows up to current building code. This usually happens where
glass is adjacent to a stairwell or in a bathroom by a tub or shower.
The reason for having to make the change is to prevent any possible
injury if a person were to fall through the window. Most times people
just have the window replaced, a costly venture. The best solution is
to install Safety film to bring the window to code. It is cheaper,
quicker and can even add additional benefits like UV protection, heart
reduction and glare reduction. Why not try this approach first.
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How do I clean my
windows after the film is installed?
Cleaning window
film is
actually easier than cleaning plain glass. All that you need is a soft
cloth or paper towel and a non-ammonia window cleaning solution. We
recommend 10 parts water to 1 part vinegar or dish washing liquid in a
spray bottle. Mist the window and wipe clean with your cloth. That's
it. Many clients have remarked that since having window film installed
on their homes, they find the windows don't become dirty as quickly.
When your job is complete, you will recieve your warranty which has the
cleaning instructions printed right on the form for your convenience.
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What methods of
payment do you accept?
Residential
customers
have
the option of using either 
or 
. We also
accept personal checks
and cash.
Commercial customers can also pay by the methods above, or if it has
been prearranged, they may be billed for the work.
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Who do I contact for a FREE estimate?
Call us at 540-580-0010 or click the
link
for e-mail to setup a time for an estimate.
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Is your product
better than the "Do It Yourself" kits from the store?
Quite simply, YES. Most "Do It Yourself" kits
come
in limited sizes, shades, and performance levels. You also run the risk
of installing a film on your window that may not be compatible with
your particular window design. If the wrong film is installed, your
window could crack or break the seal due to Thermal Stress. This is
caused by too much heat building up between the window panes in double
pane glass. The temperature rises, the pressure increases and BOOM,
your window gives out. This can be a costly mistake.
We offer 26 years of expertise in providing the approprate film for
your application. There is no need to worry about the situation
mentioned above.
With DIY kits, you do not receive a warranty for the product. It is
applied at your own risk. We offer a written Manufacturers Warranty.
See our Q&A on warranties.
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Does the film go on
the inside of my house windows?
Our window film is installed on the interior
portion of your window. If you have single pane glass with storm
windows, the film can be installed on either interior panel depending
on what property you wish to achieve.
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Can
I install window film on "Skylites"?
Yes and No. It all depends on whether the skylite panel is glass or
acrylic. 99% of all flat panels are glass and widow film can easily be
applied to the surface to reduce glare, heat buildup and UV damage.
However, there are the acrylic dome panels which are not able to have
film applied. The compound curve and off gasing of the acrylic prevent
film from adhering to the surface for any period of time.
If you have a dome skylite, there are alternatives. Some have purchased
heavy mesh screening and draped it over the exterior surface of the
skylite and held it in place with bungee cords. The other option is to
have a glass panel insert made for the inside of the skylte. This
attached by means of framework custom built to hold the panel in
position and then film may be applied to the glass panel. Contact
your local handyman or general contractor for a project like this. One
more option is to install a retractable shade system. Please see the
Halcyon Shades on our website.
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What
if I get paint on my window film while repainting window trim?
Here is where
timing is everything. Removing paint drips and streaks from film is a
simple task if you know two things. What type of paint is being used
and what removal agents work best.
Typically, water based paint removes easily with soapy water and a
sponge or rag. The sonner you remove the spot the easier it is to do so.
Oil based paint can be a problem. Most painters use chemicals such as
paint remover and mineral spirits which will damage window film
immediately. DO NOT USE THESE CHEMICALS. The chemicals dissolve the top
coat of the window film and will leave a blotchy surface and the only
way to fix this is to remove the film and reapply a new piece. So what
do you use to remove spots? I have read of people using citrus based
cleaners, peanut butter and WD40, but cannot verify that they work or
not. The best method is to be very careful about painting with oil
based paint and not drip on the window film. Using low tack adhesive
painters tape around the perimeter of the window will give protection,
but needs to be removed as soon as your done. Be sure to peel the tape
slowly away from the center of the film area to avoid lifting edges. A
better method is to use an edging tool and a dry brush method for
applying paint to avoid paint buildup near the trim and window film.
If you are using a professional painter, then inform them in advance
that window film has been applied to your glass and any damage to the
film will be their responsibility to fix. No different if they dripped
paint on your carpet, hardwood floors or furniture.
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I
would like to have "One Way" window film for privacy. Is this possible?
Many times you have been in retail stores or other businesses that have
the mysterious "One Way" mirrored glass. You cannot tell if someone is
on the other side watching you or not, and that is the point. How do
they do this?
"One Way" glass is acheived by using reflective surfaces and lighting.
The highly reflective glass that faces the store bounces light from the
mirrored surface. If you pay close attention, these windows usually
have lots of lighting in front of them to boost the reflective field of
the glass. The other trick is keeping the "observation" area dimly lit
so the observer can see you, but you cannot see him. On his side of the
glass, the coating is non-reflective so visibility is higher. We
recieve many calls for this type of application, but there is a catch.
Once the store lights are turned off or at least dimmed equal too or
lower than the observation room, you will be able to look right through
the glass. How is this? It is all about the balance between bright
light and dim light. For example. On a bright sunny day with the sun at
high noon, step outside your home and look back into the house.
What can you see? Items close to the windows may show up fine, but
things further in are difficult if not possible to see. Now perform
this same test at night with your interior home lights on. You see
everything. "One Way" glass works on the same principle, the balance of
light.
We can acheive similar effects using mirrored and non-reflective films,
and perhaps making some suggestions on adding lighting to boost the
reflectivity, but it still comes down to the balance of light. In some
cases it works well, in others it doesn't. A site evaluation can
quickly determine whether this application will work for you or not.
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Will window film
cause glass to break?
Glass breaks when stressed. There are five types of stress which
may cause glass breakage:
1. Thermal Stress--from
absorption of solar radiation.
2. Tensile Stress--from
the weight of the glass itself.
3. Mechanical Flexing Stress--from
wind.
4. Impact Stress--from
flying objects, hail, baseballs.
5. Twisting Stress--from
building or window frame sagging or settling.
The first type, thermal stress, is the
only one which film may affect. The use of window films will increase
the thermal stress on sunlit glass. However, there are also other
factors which will increase thermal stress such as: partial shading of
windows from overhangs, tightly fitting drapes or blinds, signs or
decals on windows, heating and cooling vents directed at glass. In
addition, different types of glass (annealed versus tempered, clear
versus tinted) have different solar absorption rates and will withstand
different degrees of thermal stress.
The window film manufacturers have
recommended film-to-glass tables for use by factory-trained dealer
installers. If a consumer is ever in doubt, he/she should request a
copy of such guidelines. Listed are some glass types or conditions
where the use of a solar control (not clear safety) type of window film
is not recommended without extreme caution.
- SINGLE PANE GLASS LARGER THAN 100
SQUARE FEET.
- DOUBLE PANE GLASS LARGER THAN 40
SQUARE FEET.
- CLEAR GLASS THICKER THAN 3/8
INCH.
- TINTED GLASS THICKER THAN 1/4
INCH.
- WINDOW FRAMING SYSTEMS OF CONCRETE,
SOLID ALUMINUM, OR SOLID STEEL .
- GLASS WHERE SEALANT OR GLAZING
COMPOUND HAS HARDENED.
- VISIBLY CHIPPED, CRACKED OR OTHERWISE
DAMAGED GLASS.
- REFLECTIVE, WIRED, TEXTURED, OR
PATTERNED GLASS.
- TRIPLE PANE GLASS.
- LAMINATED GLASS WINDOWS.
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Will window film
affect my house plants?
In most cases if
a house plant is already receiving adequate light the use of window
film will not harm it. New growth or flowering may be retarded,
and, for a few days, a plant may go into a state of shock while it
adjusts to the light change. If a particular plant normally wilts
by the end of a sunny day, it will actually thrive better with film
installed. Although there are some obvious guidelines in
determining what, if any, effect window film will have on a plant (for
instance, dark green plants need less light than lighter colored ones),
there is one sample test which can be done prior to film installation:
merely move the plant to an area with less sunlight for a few
days. In addition, most nurseries or local agriculture agencies
can advise you whether a particular plant needs closer to maximal or
minimal light.
