What is Window Film?

The idea of using window film may seem odd, but we do it on cars all the time. More and more, the same is true for homes. Okay, so just what is window film?

By its very nature, a window is a passive device. You can see through it in most cases. It is also usually the weakest point in the thermal envelope of a structure, to wit, it lets heat and cool air respectively in from the outdoors. One needs only walk up to a window on a cold day to feel how cool it gets within about six inches of the glass.


So, what is window film? Well, it is a catch all term that relates to a substance used on the inside of a window to prevent some natural aspect of the window. My God, that was a long, vague sentence, so let’s try for something better. There are many different types of film. Some are designed to stop heat from escaping. Some are designed for decorative purposes such as imitating stained glass. Others are designed for security or privacy. Let’s take a look at a couple of classic choices.

I don’t know about you, but my utility bills appear to be making a trek for the top of Everest. They’re going up! One area where a home loses a lot of its warmth or coolness as appropriate for the season is through the window. Glass is simply not a good thermal block. To overcome this, a window film has been developed that is clear, but acts as a layer of insulation on the panes of glass in each sash. The impact can be dramatic and greatly reduce the energy transfer and your utilities.



A second type of window film helps deal with privacy issues. I have windows in my bathroom that face directly into the windows in my neighbor’s bathroom. I like my neighbor Dave, but not that much! You can use a privacy window film to eliminate the problem of people peering into your private spaces. The film comes with a mirrored side that faces out and a clear backing that lets you see out with no problem. It works nicely to say the least.

What is window film? It has advanced to the point that it is a do it all product that can be used to shore up the shortcomings of most window systems.

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