Frequently Asked Questions

My builder said that our home’s windows came with a “Low-e” coating built-in. Do we still need window film?

Not usually. “Low-e” (low-emissivity) glass is a building standard.  In fact, it’s harder to find windows in a newer home or building that do not contain a low-e coating in-between the panes of glass!  The way your house or building is positioned has alot to do with the neccessity for film.  However, even with low-e glass in your home or building, you found your way to this page and you are wondering why your rooms are hot, the temperature is unbalanced, and your interiors are fading.

Your builder is not to blame, nor is the window manufacturer.  Unfortunately, low-e glass tends to be “over-promised”.  In other words, low-e glass does its job by slowing the conduction of heat through windows.  How?  By virtue of a pre-applied coating and/or the infusion of argon glass when the units are manufactured.  This benefit is notewothy in the winter because it’s easy for low-e glass to reject reject passive, radiant heat being created by a furnace.

Here’s the twist: low-e glass is easily overpowered by the sun!  Most low-e units do nothing to reject 99% of the damaging ultraviolet light.  Every one of our 3M films reject 99% of the UV.  So, fortifying your low-e glass with 3M window film is is a simple and green tweak that will reward you with comfort and savings for the life of your home.

Will the windows in my house look dark or shiny after window film is installed?

No. 3M Prestige window film is a colorless, non-reflective, metal free coating that doesn’t take change the look of your home or building, both inside and out.

Are window treatments enough to make our house comfortable and protect our interiors?

Yes…and no.  Window treatments are more effective than window film for harsh light control and night time privacy.   But window treatments are typically cumbersome and block your view, and the heat still enters your house!  Why not enjoy the beautiful vistas today’s new homes provide? Keep your exposures open instead of covering them, especially in homes where there are second story great room, trapezoid, and rounded windows that are next to impossible to cover with a window treatments.

What causes fading?

The pie chart to the right represents everything that will fade your interiors. While all of our products block 99% of the damaging UV, visibile light and solar heat also account for their fair share of damage. Window film provides a vital measure of protection against harsh sun, but no window film can completely eliminate fading. It will, however allow you to replace your furniture when you want to, not when you are forced to.

What kind of warranties come with your products?

Almost every 3M product we offer includes a lifetime residential warranty. Our commercial warranties are the strongest in the industry! 5 to 15 years!

Can I purchase film from you and install it myself?

Yes, brave soul! Email us with some info, and we will see if we can help!