There is a question that comes up frequently when discussing window film for residential and commercial applications. Does window tint go on the inside or the outside? The answer is that there are good reasons for both interior and exterior applications. What will work best for your home or business is determined by the type of windows you have, the location, the window film being applied and the problem you want to solve. It’s absolutely critical that you work with a professional window film installer to ensure that you get a good recommendation and end up with a good, long-lasting result.
Interior or Exterior Window Film Installation?
Whether window tint is on the inside or outside of your windows, it can significantly reduce the infrared light, heat and UV rays that enter your home or business. This means lower heating and cooling costs, a more comfortable environment, and less damage to your furnishings.
Now, let’s talk about where the film is installed. Until the last several years, home window tinting was usually installed in the inside of the glass. Interior installation protects the film from weather and subjects it to less damage – unless, of course, animals or small children live in the home. That’s something to consider. There are also other reasons exterior application are preferred.
When window film is applied to the interior of the glass, the sun’s heat and UV rays come through the glass before being rejected by the film. This keeps the heat and UV from entering your home, but it does mean they pass through the glass twice. If the home has dual pane windows, the sun’s heat and UV rays can cause significant heat build-up between the panes . Therefore, interior window tint is not recommended with dual pane windows.
The answer is 3M’s Sun Control Window Film Prestige EXTERIOR Series. This film is installed on the exterior of the window and blocks heat and UV before it enters, so it can be used on dual pane windows. It’s also strong and durable enough to stand up to the weather, so there is no need to worry about it being outside. Exterior film can be a better choice for controlling heat and for prevent damage from debris to the glass.
Reasons You Might Want Interior Window Tint
Some of the reasons you might want window tint on the inside of your windows are:
- You don’t have to worry about the weather damaging the film
- You also don’t have to worry about trees or other environmental factors scratching the films
- Easy installation without cranes or rigging on the exterior
However, while you might think these are issues, they really aren’t. 3M window films are durable and warranteed for interior and exterior applications.
If an interior film is right for you, Window Tint USA has the right equipment to install 3M films quickly and easily. Window Tint USA is a 3M Certified Dealer Installer, and that matters. The 3M Lifetime Warranty says that, when installed by a 3M certified installer, interior window film will maintain its solar reflective properties, adhesion and protection properties and not bubble, peel or crack for as long as you own the home. Based on your windows and the type of film you select, other factors such as glass failure, seal failure and discoloration also may be covered.
Reasons You Might Want Exterior Window Tint
As we’ve mentioned, if you have dual pane windows, you definitely need exterior window film. But there may be other reasons it’s a better choice for you. Here are some of the other advantages to exterior window tint installation on residential or commercial buildings:
- No need to move furniture or disrupt work or daily routines
- No contact installations, if requested
- Can be combined with other options to add additional safety and security to your windows
- Can benefit properties that have artificial turf by reducing the danger of burning from reflective glare
When installed by Window Tint USA, 3M’s exterior window films are covered for up to 10 years, depending on the type of film installed and slope of the window. If 3M Window Film installed on your home by Window Tint USA is found to be defective under the 3M Lifetime Warranty, we will replace the defective film free of charge. Ask us about 3M’s warranties for commercial applications, too.
Work with a Window Film Expert
3M window films are easy to maintain, durable and non-corrosive. When professionally installed, 3M window films come with a comprehensive, limited lifetime warranty for residential installations.
If you’re in the Pompano Beach / Ft. Lauderdale / Miami area, call or visit Window Tint USA to learn more about home or commercial window tinting. Window Tint USA has been in business for more than 30 years, helping home, business, vehicle and boat owners in South Florida control the sun. Request a Quote, call 954-960-0212 or visit www.windowtintusafl.com.