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Moore, OK 73160

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The #1 Reason to Tint Your Home Windows

The #1 Reason to Tint Your Home Windows

Today, more and more homeowners are considering tinting their home windows or glass doors. There are a variety of reasons to consider this home upgrade, though the most common is to prevent fading. Over time, sun damage from the light entering your home through windows can cause fading of your items. This can include flooring, rugs, furniture, artwork, and other items found in your home.

Fading is something that is not often thought about by homeowners until after it is already a problem. Tinting your windows can help you proactively address this common issue before it damages your precious items. In this article, we’ll explore the #1 reason to tint your home windows, along with some extra benefits. 

Tinting Windows to Prevent Fading

Some people are surprised to learn that many museums and art galleries choose spaces without windows! This is precisely to avoid potential sun damage and fading. While windows are a must-have in a home, you can eliminate fading by tinting your home windows and glass doors.

In areas with high sun exposure, fading is inevitable. Many homeowners spend lots of time researching and exploring the furniture they choose to put in their homes. The last thing you want is for your beautifully picked items to get faded by the sun! Not only can the sun fade your furniture, but it can also fade your flooring. Hardwood flooring is one of the most beautiful, yet expensive, types of flooring for a home. The sun can damage the finish over time, leaving a less-than-perfect look. More can be learned here.

How Fading Happens

Over time, the ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun cause damage to items in your home. UV rays are responsible for up to 40% of the fading caused in home items. Visible light and solar heat are responsible for 25% of fading, while 10% is caused by miscellaneous factors. As you can see, fading caused by the UV rays is the primary component leading to the fading of household objects.

To target this, specially designed window films can help block the number of UV rays that enter your home. They can block up to 99.99% of UV rays from the sun through the window film! These are known as 3M Window Films, which come in various varieties. Window films allow you to customize the window tinting in your home, which gives you control of the amount of visible light blocked. Not only do these window films block the UV rays entering your home, but they can also help reject some of the sun’s heat.

Help ensure your home furnishings and household items stay just as beautiful as new by considering window tinting for your home’s windows and doors. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause items to lose their color and pigment, and even begin to show other signs of wear over time. While window tinting is an investment, it is a smart one. It will help you protect and prolong the lifespan of your furniture, artwork, rugs, and other household furnishings. Next article found here.

Other Benefits to Tinting your Home Windows

While the number one reason to tint home windows is to prevent damage and fading, there are several other wonderful benefits you’ll receive from tinting your home windows. Below are some of the primary benefits of home window tinting. 

Conservation of Energy

Another attractive feature of home window tinting is its ability to help homeowners reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the home. This can, in turn, help you save on your monthly energy bills. Regular glass windows allow the heat from the sun to penetrate, which raises the temperature of your home. Window tinting works to block this sunlight and heat allowed into the home. As such, this results in a lower temperature inside the home. You’ll love spending less every year on air conditioning bills throughout the brutal summer months!

Increase your Home’s Value

Not only will you be able to enjoy the benefits of tinted windows in your home, but it will also help increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell. Window tinting is a smart investment that can result in an increased home value. This feature will be an attractive talking point to attract potential homebuyers down the road. In addition, it is unique, as not all homes have tinted windows.

Added Privacy and Security

Another benefit of window tinting is the benefit of enhanced privacy. There are many types of window films available, some of which provide more privacy than others. If you’re looking for privacy from neighbors or others passing by in your neighborhood, the extra privacy window tint provides will be a bonus!

Along with privacy comes security. Window tinting not only can deter burglars due to the enhanced privacy, but it can also hold glass together in the event of an emergency. If a potential burglary did occur, window tinting can keep dangerous shards of glass from scattering everywhere. This can help prevent injuries caused by glass flying. In areas that are prone to severe weather or storms, windowing tinting can be smart to prevent glass injuries.

Choosing window tinting for your home’s glass windows or doors can be a smart investment to help prolong the lifespan of your belongings. By blocking UV rays and solar heat, your items will stay colorful and bright without potential sun damage. This means your items will have a prolonged lifespan! In addition to preventing fading, window tinting can help enhance your home’s privacy, security, value, and even help you save on monthly energy bills.

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Solar Control Window Film – Block The Sun Before It Gets In

How Solar Control Window Film Can Block the Sun Before it Gets In

What is Solar Control Window Film?

Nothing creates a better atmosphere in your house than opening the windows and letting in the sun’s natural light. However, without film, your windows also let unnecessary heat flow in during the summer and the chilling cold creep in during the winter. Not only does this make your home’s temperature more uncomfortable, but it also raises your cooling and heating costs as well.

That’s where solar control window film comes in. These products work at both controlling your home’s temperature, as well as protecting you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The best part is that window films can do this without restricting natural light. Here’s how a good solar control window film can block the sun before it gets in.

Control the Temperature and Control Your Costs

Although curtains and blinds certainly help with heat control, they also eliminate any natural light from entering your house. For that reason, solar control window film is a better option. Window films can block the sun’s heat while still allowing its light to pour through. In fact, 3M Window Films can even stop as much as 78% of the sun’s heat from entering your home.

In addition to blocking heat in the summer, solar control window film also does a great job of keeping cold air out in the winter. Specifically, Low-E window films increase your windows’ insulation power by reflecting and dispersing heat back into your house. As a result, the increased heat retention you’ll get from solar control window films will make it feel like you’ve added an entirely new windowpane.

Because solar control window films work as increased insulation, you’ll ultimately save money on your energy bills all year long. In the summer, you can keep your house cool without overrunning your air conditioning. And in the winter, the heat retention can give your furnace a break. More here.

Reflective and Non-Reflective Window Films

But how does a simple film over your window really manage to keep your energy costs so low? Most solar window film comes in one of two versions. Each version has its own unique properties that perform different functions.

The first type of solar window film is reflective. One of the major properties of reflective films is its ability to absorb energy. In addition, reflective solar window film can successfully reject solar energy.

Non-reflective window film is the second type of solar control film. These films are specifically designed to absorb any unwanted light and heat from the sun. 

How Does Solar Control Window Film Work?

No matter which solar control window film you look at, however, they all strive to filter out and deflect varying degrees of energy from the sun. Simply put, the sun transmits its energy through waves through different lengths: UV, visible light, and infrared. Since all of the sun’s waves arrive at once and represent different forms of energy, it would be challenging to develop a single window film that blocks all of them.

As a result, experts have developed a number of solar performance measurements used to grade window films. The two most popular measurements are Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC).

TSER measures a window film’s ability to reject the sun’s heat. The measurements are calculated in percentages. As TSER percentages increase, so does the film’s effectiveness. In addition, window films with higher TSER ratings also tend to have a darker tint.

On the other hand, SHGC measures how much solar energy that passes through the film. In addition, SHGC accounts for the heat energy transferred into the room due to sunlight heating the glass and film. Unlike TSER, better SHGC measurements are lower numbers.

Interior Window Films Vs. Exterior Window Films

Believe it or not, exterior solar control window films are a recent invention. While window films in general have been around for quite some time, until recently, they were primarily installed on the interior of the window. Interior window films work by allowing the sun’s heat to first pass through the glass before hitting the film and bouncing back.

And while this works well for single-pane windows, it can cause major problems for people with double-pain windows. The issue is that the sun’s energy can pass through each pane twice. Ultimately, this results in serious heat buildup between both panes.

On the other hand, exterior solar control window films are installed on the outside of the glass. As a result, you can block the sun before it even gets in. This is especially beneficial for people with dual pane windows since you can prevent the heat buildup between the two panes. Next article here.

Another benefit of using exterior window films is increased protection against scratches made by children or pets. Exterior films are also great solutions to tint windows that are difficult to access from the inside of your home.

3 Great Window Films

With so many options available for solar control window films, choosing the right one can be a challenge. In addition, many people want to find a window film that not only works well but can also be purchased at an affordable price. Depending on your needs, one of these three great solar control window film products may be the perfect fit for you!

3M Daylight Redirecting Film

One of the simplest yet most effective window film is the 3M Daylight Redirecting Film. The main feature of this window film is that it redirects close to 80% of all sunlight towards the ceiling. As a result, you’ll be able to provide natural right as deep as 40 feet away from the window.

This window film is particularly ideal for businesses. Studies show that natural light from the sun positively corelates with workplace productivity. An added bonus is that the deep vibrant light brought in through this filter can help make you less reliant on electric lighting. 

3M Sun Control Window Film

Another great option is the 3M Sun Control Window Film. This film does a great job at blocking both infrared light and UV rays from the sun. In fact, it can reject as much as 97% of all infrared light.

In addition to lowering energy costs, this film also provides more comfort and extra protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Since it effectively rejects UV rays from entering the room, it can also protect your personal property from fading. 

Another benefit of this window film is its environmentally friendly properties. One feature is that within six months of installation, this film becomes carbon negative. Additionally, it’s resilient to corrosion and doesn’t cause signal interference due to its non-metallic properties.

3M Safety & Security Window Film

The 3M Safety & Security Window Film is one of the most reliable solar tint films on the market. At a low cost, this film provides phenomenal protection against hazards caused by glass shards. In addition, this film also does an exceptional job at rejecting heat from the sun.

This reflective film also reduces external glare while also enhancing privacy. Featuring silver tones, this film also looks stylish on most house exteriors. Overall, this solar control window film gives you great heat control and UV protection at a very reasonable price.

No matter which product you choose, solar control window films give your home a major upgrade. By blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays and providing heat control, a good window film protects your belongings from fading while keeping you comfortable. 

In addition, the increased insulation will ultimately save you money on energy bills all year long. With solar control window films, you can continue letting natural light flow in without the sun’s harmful effects.

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Maintaining Car Window Tint FAQ – 4 Tips

Maintaining Car Window Tint FAQ

Alongside the other challenges of owning a vehicle, adding window tinting creates a further responsibility. There’s a lot to consider, but you can start by finding professional installers like Perfect Reflections Window Tint and asking them for advice on maintaining car window tinting.

Our 5 Most-Heard FAQs On Window Tint Care

1) How Long Will My Window Tint Take To Set?

Most window tint films are installed with an adhesive, meaning they might need a week or more until the glue sets and cures into place. In some areas and climates, the adhesive can require up to a month. Whoever installed the tinting should give you a more exact estimate. During that time, also avoid touching the window tinting.

If you clean or roll down the tinted windows before fully set, the adhesive might end up weaker or take longer to set, along with other potential damage. If water gets on the tinting – or between the tinting and the glass – then the moisture may get stuck there permanently, which creates something like a hazy layer or other imperfections such as bubbles.

2) How Should I Clean My Tinted Windows So They Stay Clear?

Dirt and oils can make seeing out of windows more difficult, so you will need to eventually clean your tinted windows – yet moisture can end up trapped beneath the tinting or peeling away at the edges. This is why the process for cleaning tinted windows is both a bit more complex than other windows and also far more important.

a) Where and When you should clean Tinted Windows

Clean your tinted windows roughly once every week or two. Wash other sections of the vehicle first, so that dust from other areas won’t drift to the window tinting. Before cleaning, bring your vehicle into a dark area away from the sun, because that sunlight might make the cleaning solution partially evaporate before you can wipe it off and leave behind streaks which tend to show up more on tinted windows. Only clean after checking for damage to the window tint so you can avoid any such area.

b) Safe products and solutions to use on Tinted Windows

Any cleaning solutions with hard water, ammonia or other abrasive chemicals will likely change the color of your window tinting or dig into the film, and cause even more damage. For this reason, you should use cleaning solutions specifically formulated for tinted windows, yet you don’t need to buy anything expensive. Simply mix together warm water and any mild ammonia-free soap, such as a drop of dish soap. Another good mix is enough distilled water to fill a bottle, then three to five drops of baby soap and two tablespoons of rubbing alcohol, swirled together. Using rubbing alcohol is best at removing grease and oil, as well as disinfecting the window tint surface. Or try equal portions warm water and white vinegar, which is best at removing smells and smudges. Additional information.

c) The best cleaning tools for Tinted Windows

Always use clean microfiber cloths, with two or more so that you can use a fresh one to dry the surfaces off. Another good tool is a clean and soft rubber squeegee, or a Mr. Clean sponge with a little water. Never use rough cloths and kitchen towels, as these can make the window tinting start to peel or leave behind scratches and streaks of fiber.

d) How to safely clean your tinted windows

With cleaning solution and tools in hand, fill a fresh spray bottle and dust the surface you want to clean, then gently wipe away the moisture with a microfiber cloth. Occasionally spin or turn over the cloth to use every section. If this wiping starts to leave streaks, change out the cloth for another. When using the squeegee, spray again and slide either from top to bottom or horizontally until the surface is dry. Avoid getting a lot of your cleaning solution on the window tint edges and always completely dry the window with a second microfiber cloth after cleaning. Also avoid pulling at the edges of your window tint, which could cause the film to begin peeling away. To check for any moisture or material left on the window tint, walk around the outside of your vehicle, or drive your vehicle back under full sunlight and look out from the inside.

3) What Are The Best Ways to Maintain My Tinted Windows?

Keeping your tinted windows in the best possible condition is a sound investment in helping them last for years. Along with the considerations for cleaning them, there are many useful tips to consider in terms of maintenance.

First, clean the outside of your vehicle as usual, since window tinting should only be on the interior surfaces. Take care and use a cover when cleaving a vehicle with tinted windows under trees, since otherwise falling pollen and sap will force you to clean the windows more often.

On the inside, use your microfiber cloths from cleaning when you need to remove dust from window tint. Roughly twice a year, wax your car windows to prevent dirt from sticking to them. Avoid steam cleaning your vehicle when you have window tinting, or at least roll down the windows if you do, because the steam can really hurt the window tinting. To remove the sticky residue left behind if tape or glue is applied to your window tint, apply a little acetone to a microfiber cloth and wipe clean. Another great article.

4) What Should I Do If The Window Tint Forms Bubbles?

Some products for cleaning window tinting will start a process of bubbling and peeling if you fully soak the edges, so avoid that vulnerable area. Additionally, washing your car too soon after installation or rolling the windows down when the tint still needs time to set may cause bubbling. Whoever installs the tinting should give you exact instructions, but generally you should wait at least one week.

 

When you spot a small bubble starting to form, try wrapping a microfiber cloth around any small plastic card. A razor blade or anything too sharp would cut and damage your window tinting, so avoid them. Use the soft scraper to slide against the bubble from one direction, moving the bubble towards the closest edge of your window tint cover. This should be done gently so that no harm comes to the tinting in the center of your window. Then lance the bubble at the edge with the sharpest thin needle you have and let the air inside escape. The bubble should almost vanish from sight over time.

 

If one bubble grows too large or many bubbles start to form, you might need to return to the window tint installer for help. Once any bubble grows large enough to crack open, the only thing left to do will be to replace the tinting. An open bubble will cause the film to start peeling away.

 

5) Will My Window Tint Fade Over Time?

Window tinting can fade or get scratched if owners don’t use safe care products (see FAQ 2 above) or if the window tint is improperly installed. You can further prevent tint from fading by parking your vehicle in naturally dark areas such as indoors or under dense shade, keeping away from unnecessary exposure to the sun. With these steps, the product should last for many years while remaining effective at filtering out the majority of UV rays. How long exactly depends mostly on window tint quality.

Summary of Do’s and Don’ts For Window Tint Care

  • Do
    • check for damage, bubbles and other imperfections that might grow over time
    • use cleaning solutions specifically formulated for window tinting
    • use two soft and clean microfiber cloths and / or a soft and clean rubber squeegee
    • clean the outside of your vehicle as usual, since window tinting should only be on the interior surfaces
    • make sure your window tinting installer tells you when the adhesive will be set and what cleaning products they recommend
  • Don’t
    • don’t clean or roll down your windows for a week or more after installing the tinting
    • don’t use cleaning products with ammonia on tinted windows, because these harsher chemicals can hurt the window tint, make it brittle or change its color
    • don’t clean with scouring pads, paper towels or newspaper
    • don’t use sharp scrapers or razor blades on your window tint
    • don’t leave any moisture or residue on window tinting after cleaning
  • Wrapping Up

Window tinting is certainly more complex than normal windows, from needing time for the adhesive to set and requiring special cleaning considerations, to maintenance issues like parking in the best places or handling bubbles and fading.

Yet the costs of window tinting are often outweighed by the many benefits, starting with protecting the occupants and interior from almost all of the harmful ultraviolet rays in sunlight. These UV rays damage your skin in the same way as a sunburn while causing the upholstery to fade. Window tinting also gives you more privacy and looks great, and some window tinting will block heat energy, keeping your vehicle more comfortable in summer. To learn more about all of these advantages, click here.

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The Top 5 Commercial Window Tinting Benefits

Top 5 Commercial Window Tinting Benefits

When it comes to business facility upgrades, many business owners forget that commercial windowing tinting is an option. With many upgrades and renovations to spend on, choosing smart investments with lots of benefits comes to the top of the list. At Perfect Reflections Window Tint, we believe the worthwhile benefits of commercial window tinting are worth consideration for all businesses.

Commercial window tinting has various benefits in exploring commercial locations. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 commercial window tinting benefits to consider. These benefits may change your thinking and encourage you to explore commercial windowing tinting options yourself!

What is Commercial Window Tinting?

A window tint for a commercial window involves adding a thin film to your existing windows. There are various kinds of commercial window tinting, but they all involve darkening the windows to some extent. With many options and styles to choose from, you can choose if you want a slight tint or more moderate tinting for your windows.

Top 5  Commercial Window Tinting Benefits

  1. Privacy

Perhaps the most obvious advantage of commercial window tinting is the privacy it provides.  For people outside the building, window tinting reduces inside visibility by darkening the glass. Depending on the nature of your business or industry, this added privacy can be beneficial for everyone involved in your business. 

Employees and workers will enjoy enhanced privacy without feeling like every passerby is watching them. In addition, clients and customers may enjoy this additional privacy in certain industries, that involve meetings or personal matters. In addition to privacy from the outside, some types of commercial window tinting can help glass from shattering.

  1. Reduce Glare

Commercial window tinting is also beneficial to help reduce glare. Depending on the location of your building, sun and light may come in forcefully. Window films help reduce the amount of bright light coming in, thereby reducing glare. This makes it easier for everyone to see, including staff and customers. 

No one enjoys the uncomfortable feeling of squinting your eyes while trying to perform a task! Commercial window tinting can help create a more comfortable environment and prevent strained eyes at certain points throughout the day. Squinting or glaring could also potentially slow down the productivity levels of your employees. When the sun is facing your building directly, you’ll be glad to have commercial window tinting to lessen the effects of the bright sun!

  1. Protection from UV Rays

Many skin conditions and skin cancers are linked to harmful UV rays from too much sun exposure. Adding commercial window tinting can help prevent your staff and customers from harmful rays. Although it may seem counterintuitive, you don’t need to be outside to be exposed to UV rays. UV rays can travel through glass, including the glass in cars, homes, and commercial businesses.

Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays has been linked to skin cancer and premature aging. For staff spending prolonged periods in your building, this potential daily exposure comes with risk. Commercial window tinting can help protect the skin of everyone coming into your commercial location.

  1. Enhanced Curb Appeal for your Location

Commercial window tinting can completely transform the look of your building. In turn, this could help enhance your success as a business. Window tinting for commercial buildings helps enhance the outside appearance, providing a sleek and professional appearance. Depending on the type of business or industry, this enhanced, sleek appearance may be better suited for your business.

Various types of commercial window tinting are available to choose from. Choose through the many styles and types of window films to help personalize the look of your building and set yourself apart from the competition. Commercial window tinting can help make a positive impact on first-time clients approaching your building, as well as give the impression that you’re professional and experienced.

  1. Energy Savings

Another great advantage of commercial window tinting is the ability to help you reduce energy costs. In addition to an enhanced outside appearance, window tints help reduce your energy costs. The heat of the sun can quickly make its way into your building, requiring the use of extra air conditioning. 

Window tints are especially beneficial during the summer when the temperatures are high outside. The window tinting can help to keep your building cooler throughout the day, limiting the need to run your air conditioning as frequently. As many business owners know, HVAC expenses can quickly add up, especially during the warm summer months. For buildings with many windows, this is an especially important consideration. Think of the savings you’ll benefit from with darkened windows!

  1. Enhanced Security

Non-tinted glass windows provide a clear line of sight for potential burglars to see inside your building. Adding window films to your commercial property can limit visibility inside the building. For certain industries with expensive products or equipment located inside the building, this enhanced security can be beneficial.

In addition to limiting visibility, window tinting also makes it more difficult for vandalism to occur. Window tinting makes your glass windows impact-resistant and enhances their durability. In turn, this means the windows are less likely to shatter or break. Investing in commercial window tinting can be a smart move to help protect and preserve your business’s assets.

  1. Protect your Belongings

Over time, the sunlight that enters your building can cause wear to show on furniture and other belonging inside the building. This might include fading or damage to carpets, furniture, and other surfaces. To help protect your items, window tinting can limit the amount of sun exposure reaching these items. 

Not only will you preserve the appearance of your belongings, but you’ll help extend their lifespan without having to replace pricy items frequently. For art and wall hangings, the sun exposure can also cause fading and cause the materials used to break down over time.

Types of Commercial Window Tinting 

There are a wide range of window tinting products available for commercial windows.

Ceramic Tints: One type of window tinting, ceramic tinting, is perfect for the commercial property owner who doesn’t want to change the appearance of their building but is looking to help reduce the amount of light coming into the building. Ceramic tinting is great to help save on monthly energy costs and reduce glare into the building.

Reflective Tints: Another type of window tinting available for commercial windows are reflective tints. These types of tints are focused on enhanced privacy, and help to reduce glare. Reflective tints have a mirror-like appearance which provides the optimal level of privacy. In addition, reflective tints are one of the more affordable commercial window tinting options. 

Decorative Tints:  If you’re seeking a new building appearance, decorative tinting may be an option to consider. Decorative tints are popular amongst commercial properties, as they help to offer a sleek and polished curb appeal. There are several shades and designs to choose from. Some options include frosted or vinyl designs.

Chromatic Tint: Chromatic window tinting is like the tinting that is used on eyeglasses. Chromatic tinting is the ultimate option for commercial window tinting. During the day, chromatic tinting helps prevent people inside the building from harmful exposure to the sun’s UV rays. At night, chromatic window tinting becomes clear, with no visible tinting. This popular technology is becoming more popular amongst commercial properties! 

Considering Commercial Window Tinting

Now that you know how many benefits commercial window tinting brings to the table, perhaps you’re considering this addition for your business. From reduced energy costs to enhanced curb appeal, commercial window tinting has many benefits to consider. All around, commercial window tinting is a smart investment for your staff and customers.

Need help determining which type of commercial window tinting is best for your building? Our experts at Perfect Reflections Window Film are here to help. We will work with you to determine which of these types of window tinting help best meet the individual needs of your business.

Interested in learning more about options for commercial window tinting? Contact us today at Perfect Reflections Window Tint to get started.

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What Is Ceramic Coating, and Why Should You Use It for Car Cleaning

You want your car to look as glamourous as it did when you bought it. So, you wash it regularly and apply a new coat of wax periodically, but stains and chips don’t seem to go away. Even worse, water spots, grime, and dirt start clinging to your car a few hours after giving it a thorough wash. So, what do you do as a car enthusiast? Give up washing your vehicle and leave it to rust away? 

The good news is there is a product that can change this narrative. And that is the ceramic coating, which can add substantial value to your car when done by a professional. 

The coating is applied on the exterior of your vehicle, bonding with the factory paint to create a layer of protection. This guards your vehicle against harmful UV damage, improves cleaning ability, reduces chemical stains, and gives your vehicle hydrophobic properties. And although ceramic coating won’t stop the need for a car wash or protect it from scratches, it’s definitely worth your money an investment that adds value to your car. 

In this post, I’ll take you through the ceramic coating, including what it is, its benefits, what it can’t do, how to choose the proper ceramic coating dealer for your car and more.

Let’s get started!

What Is The Ceramic Coating?

Ceramic paint is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of your vehicle. The coating bonds with your car’s factory paint, creating a layer of protection. Ceramic painting is made of silicon dioxide, obtained from natural materials like sand and quartz. A ceramic coating protects your vehicle’s paint from UV rays, etching, and chemical stains when done by a pro. 

Some brands also use titanium dioxide as an additional hardening agent. The coating bonds with your car’s factory paint, creating hydrophobic properties protecting your vehicle from water spots, dirt, and other debris materials. Learn more here.

It’s important to note that ceramic coating isn’t a substitute for Paint Protection Film. Instead, it’s a premium wax alternative that creates a semi-permanent or permanent bond with your car’s paint, saving you the hassle of repeated application. 

Why Is It Important to Maintain a Ceramic Coating?

One of the common questions asked by car owners is why a car ceramic coating needs maintenance. Many individuals assume they don’t have to wash the car anymore after applying a 9H ceramic or DIY coating – apparently because of the self-cleaning attributes.

But let’s set things straight: a ceramic coated car doesn’t “clean itself.” Instead, the coating makes the top layer slippery – better than a standard wax. In turn, this gives your car a hydrophobic property, where water, dirt, dust, and other debris slide off with little effort. But your car needs to be cleaned by a ceramic paint pro to maintain its glittering appearance. 

Why ceramic coating?

Ceramic coating provides its users with innumerable benefits, ranging from protection from stains to improved ease of cleaning. Other than the obvious, here are several reasons to get a ceramic coating for your car:

  • Protection from harmful UV rays
  • Protection from chemical stains
  • It keeps your vehicle looking great
  • Enhanced hydrophobic properties
  • Candy-like gloss 
  • Cost-effective

As discussed below, despite its many benefits, ceramic coating can’t protect your vehicle from several things.

Things that ceramic coating can’t do

Ceramic coating is excellent, especially if done by a professional. But there are a few things that the coating does not promise to do for you, including:

  • Protection from scratches
  • Stop the need for car wash

So, if the coating can’t help you with these things, is it still worth it? Let’s see below:

Is ceramic coating worth it?

The short answer for this common question is yes. Ceramic coating has great benefits, including protecting and adding value to your vehicle. When done by a professional, the coating will make your job of cleaning and maintaining your car less tedious.

Generally, weighing the cost of ceramic coating against yearly waxing and maintenance makes it a no-brainer.  Next article here.

Ceramic coating installation

The ceramic coating comes in different types, quality, durability, and installation procedure. Each type of coating is made for different users, depending on their needs.

Generally, car owners can choose between two types of ceramic coating installation, as discussed below:

Professionally installed coating

A certified dealer installs this type of coating at a cost. The product itself is a commercial grade, resulting in a more complicated application processasking for more prep work, and taking longer to cure. The result, however, is assured protection of your vehicle for years to come. 

Professional ceramic coating dealers will complete everything for you, from removing swirl marks to washing, polishing, and installation services. Most of them will even offer aftercare services to ensure the durability of your car’s spiffy appearance. 

So, with so many options available, how do you choose the right ceramic coating service provider? Here are a few factors to consider:

  • Cost
  • Warranty
  • Experience of the dealers
  • How they will take care of your car when you’re away

However, the cost factor shouldn’t worry you much as cost translates to quality and durability. 

  • The DIY ceramic coating

This is a nano-coating that’s made easier for car owners to install. The product is not as concentrated as the pro-grade coating and offers a semi-permanent layer of protection. This product will give your car a showroom shine but won’t protect it for too long. 

Final thoughts

Ask any car enthusiast, and they’ll all tell you the same thing: ceramic coatings are a blessing. This is especially true when you have a professional detailer install the coating for you. The coating protects your vehicle from UV light, dirt, and etching, keeping it in a tip-top shape. This adds value and class to your car. 

So, you have decided to get a ceramic coating on your vehicle. It’s a smart step towards offering the most effective and modern method of paint protection for your car. Find a pro to do the job for you for assured durability.

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Maintain a Ceramic Coating – Our Top 5 Tips

To maintain a ceramic coating is to keep your car looking clean and shiny. Heads turn in awe as you cruise down the street in your finely polished vehicle. But simply applying a ceramic coating isn’t enough. Let it go neglected for too long and you’ll have peoples’ heads turning towards you for the wrong reasons.

Mother nature has a devastating array of weapons in her arsenal to sabotage your car’s clear coat. From the sun to dirt, nature’s elements will take a heavy toll on your car if you’re not careful. Poor maintenance of your ceramic coating can dull its shine, reduce its hydrophobic effects and eventually lead to complete failure. More can be found here.

That’s why it’s crucial you take care of your ceramic coating. By following these five tips, you can maintain your ceramic coating and keep your car clean, protected and resilient. 

How To Maintain A Ceramic Coating

Wash Your Car Consistently

Although your ceramic coating has hydrophobic properties that help keep most contaminants from sticking to your vehicle, it only fights part of the battle. Without regularly washing, dirt and other substances will wear out your coating’s hydrophobic effects. 

Therefore, the best thing you can do to maintain your vehicle’s ceramic coating is maintain a regular washing schedule. Experts recommend washing your car by hand at least once every two weeks. If you maintain a regular washing schedule, wiping off any dirt buildup will be nearly effortless.

As important as it is to simply wash your car, it’s also essential to use the proper method. The best way to wash your vehicle is to start at the roof and work your way down. Since the bottom of your vehicle is the dirtiest area, starting from the top lets you save this part for last and avoid cross-contamination.

Use the Two-Bucket Method

Another way to reduce cross-contamination when you wash your ceramic coating is to use the two-bucket method. Only using one bucket while washing your car is highly ineffective since you end up contaminating your car shampoo. This ultimately leads to you simply smearing all the dirt you washed off right back onto your vehicle.

Instead, we recommend using the two-bucket method. The first bucket is filled with both car shampoo and water, while the second bucket only has water. Each time you apply shampoo to your vehicle, you can now rinse off all the dirt from your mitt in the water bucket. Repeating this process throughout the entire wash ensures that you don’t wipe any dirt back onto your car.

In addition to using two buckets, you can also use multiple mitts when you wash your vehicle. Although this isn’t always necessary, using multiple mitts can also help avoid cross contaminating your ceramic coating depending on how dirty the vehicle is. Next article here.

Take Advantage of Ceramic Coating Specific Car Shampoos

Using the right car shampoo also goes a long way in maintaining your ceramic coating. Specific shampoos, such as CarPro Reset, are specially designed for cleaning ceramic coatings. Non-specialized shampoos, even the highly rated ones, contain chemical agents and pH levels that significantly damage silica-based ceramic coatings.

Ceramic Coating specialized shampoos effectively clean your car without causing damage to your coat. In addition, you avoid leaving behind gloss enhancers and other surfactants. Not only do ceramic coating friendly car shampoos keep your coating safe, but they also add shine and help rejuvenate your coating. 

It’s also important that you use the correct amount of car shampoo for your ceramic coating. To get the best results out of your shampoo, first fill your bucket with three to four gallons of water. Then, mix in around one ounce of your ceramic coating friendly shampoo as the bucket fills. This helps create the ideal solution to wash your coating.

Avoid Water Spots at All Costs

One of the worst things you can do to your ceramic coating is allowing your car to airdry. This essentially guarantees you’ll leave behind ugly water spots over your coating. In addition, allowing water spots to sit for too long will toughen the mineral deposits.

These mineral deposits could eventually harden to a point where even a thorough washing won’t remove them. For instances where you do end up with water spots that can’t be easily removed, it’s best to visit the certified installer who applied your original coating.

One of the best ways to avoid water spots is to manually dry off your vehicle after washing. Although a properly maintained ceramic coating will sheet away most of the water after washing, some water will remain on the car. To effectively dry any remaining water after washing, you can use an air blower like the Master Blaster or an electric leaf blower.

Do Not Wash Your Car in the Sun

Another way you can avoid water spots is to keep your vehicle out of direct sunlight when you wash. In addition, you should only wash your vehicle when its surface is cool to the touch. Washing your car in direct sunlight leaves behind dry soap streaks and water spots that cause long-term damage to your ceramic coating.

To keep your vehicle out of the sun, we recommend always swashing underneath a covered structure or heavily shaded area. If these options aren’t possible for you, then the time of day you wash is key. The best times to wash your ceramic coating are early in the morning or late in the evening. Either time works because the sun is low and creates extra shadows to protect your ceramic coating. 

The Importance of Inspection

Following these five ceramic coating maintenance tips will help put you on the right track to keeping vehicle’s finish clean and resilient. However, it’s also important to work with a trusted professional by keeping a regular vehicle inspection schedule. Visiting the certified installer who applied your ceramic coating once every 12 months ensures your warranty is upheld for the entirety of its duration. 

In addition, if your ceramic coating does start to wear off and lose its hydrophobic effects, you should contact a professional for support. While it’s best to maintain your ceramic coating for as long as you can, if you notice the signs of a complete failure, don’t hesitate to work with a professional service. They can help strip the bad coat away and prepare the application for a new ceramic coating. 

Overall, having a ceramic coating is a great way to offer protection to your vehicle’s body. However, it’s far from a permanent solution by itself. At the end of the day, taking care of your ceramic coating is a crucial measure to keep your vehicle’s body spot-free and resilient. 

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Common Myths About Home Window Tint

As a homeowner constantly seeking to improve one’s quality of living, you may have considered getting your home’s windows tinted. It might’ve been a great idea at first, but then perhaps you were warded off by hearing about the many different myths about home window tint. The truth is, many of these myths can be debunked. A lot of these myths tend to be based on word-of-mouth generalizations and misinformed opinions, but when you take a deeper look into both home window tint and commercial window tint, you might just change how you see these window tints– and maybe even opt to get your own windows tinted.

Below, we’ve listed a few popular myths about home window tint (and even commercial window tint), along with the actual facts surrounding each myth. Let’s get right to it!

Home Window Tint Will Change My Home’s Look

Home window tint can only change your home’s look if you choose the kind of tint that will change it. There is a vast amount of options for window tint, and while there are some that have shades that are visible and obvious to the human eye, most window tints cannot be detected. These types of undetectable tints are non-reflective and neutral-colored, so they can be placed on glass to minimize the traversal of those dangerous UV rays into your home– all without the feeling that they’re there!

The bottom line? The shade and aesthetic aspect of your home window tint is entirely up to you. With the number of options on the market, there is one bound to be perfect for your home.

Home Window Tint Is Too Expensive

Home window tint is actually not too expensive– especially when compared to other window treatment options. They are actually the most affordable option, plus they tend to be the better option between tinting and choosing to buy a brand new tinted window. Tinted windows are just as effective as brand new tinted windows. The biggest difference? You won’t have to wait too long for a brand new window to be installed, and you won’t have to pay as much, either. 

There are, however, a few cheaper tinted windows out in the market, but these tend to be of a substandard quality and would cost you a lot more in the long run. Find out more.

Home Window Tint Will Make My Home Dark Inside

Since one of the functions of window tint is to block the sun’s harmful rays and, at times, reduce the light that enters your home, it’s not surprising to hear that home window tint can make everything inside your home darker and less visible in the day.

However, since we’ve covered that home window tint comes in a variety of shades, this is not always the case. You can choose window tints that can make your home darker if that’s the style you’re going for, but you can also choose window tints that can allow your window to look exactly like the way it does now, all while doing its job of reducing glare and heat.

At the end of the day, your professional home tinting service will provide many options that are fit for your specifications and needs.

Home Window Tint Will Block Light For Plants

Believe it or not, plants have also been a huge consideration for one of the varieties of home window tint. Called the Invisible Ultraviolet (UV) tint, this type of tint blocks harmful UV rays while letting other rays pass through– particularly, blue and red rays that your plants need to survive indoors. Since UV rays are useless for the majority of plants, this type of home window tint is oftentimes the most preferred tint for plant owners. More can be learned here.

Home Window Tint Will Block My View

On the contrary, window tints were also created to make your view clearer and more vivid. Since a lot of glare is reflected from the sun’s rays and bounces off your window, this lack of strain due to less light actually gives you a clearer picture of the view outside. Apart from that, there are also tints such as 3M Night Vision Films that make your view clearer, especially come nighttime. 

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Automotive Window Tint: It’s Not Just For Looks

6 Ways Automotive Window Tint Improves Safety

Perfect Reflections Window Tint for vehicle windshields has one main goal – to cut down on the light entering a driver’s cabin. This can include almost all of the sun’s harmful UV rays and much of the infrared rays, while leaving you with plenty of visible light to see the road and other cars. In fact, drivers behind a sheet of window tint can be much safer than others for these reasons and more. Learn more.

Automotive Window Tint Benefits

Cuts Down On Glare

The primary benefit of window film remains cutting down on glare, but from what? The sun, of course. Think back to all of those occasions when you’ve been driving at that one unfortunate time of day where the sun is right in your eyes. How much could you see? Did you try to block the sun with your hand, or pull down that annoying to manage flap directly above the wheel? Everything you did reduced your visibility only slightly less (or perhaps even more) than the sun, yet the sun hurts enough that you have to try and block it. With window tint, the sun will be just a big light in the sky, no more painful to have on the periphery of your attention that a bright light bulb. Of course, don’t use window tinting as an excuse to stare directly at the sun, but … you might be safe?

Filters Out Infrared Light

You might be safe because window tinting also filters out a large amount of the infrared light that can actually damage your eyes. Again, don’t look directly at the sun, but window tinting does help. Think about all the damage you might be doing to your eyes if your regular commute is during that time of day where the sun is low and right there in front of you. Window tinting for your vehicle will protect you from that actual damage to your eyes, and damaged eyes could make future driving impossible. Learn more about Window Tint here.

Blocks UV Radiation

Along with filtering infrared, window tinting also blocks out as much as 99% of UV radiation from the sun. You know how you get sunburns at the beach if you don’t put on sun lotion? The UV protection from window tinting is like putting on the thickest coating of perfect sun lotion, enough that you probably can’t even get a tan. If you’ve even gotten a sunburn while just sitting in your enclosed vehicle cabin in traffic under the hot sun, window tinting for your automotive could have helped.

Lessens Occurance Of Headaches

Did you know that one of the major triggers for a rough migraine headache is the sun? So it turns out that while cutting down and filtering out sunlight to just what you need for visibility, window tinting has the added reward of helping you experience less headaches or else preventing a headache you already had from getting worse. And how do you drive with a bad headache? Perhaps more recklessly, or with less attention paid to the road? Window tinting can save you from a headache and make your driving experience happier and safer. More.

Blocks The Halo Effect

You might be worried that window tinting could make driving at night more dangerous, but again you are safer because the tinting blocks the halo effect. Consider how at night the brightest street lamps, the many glowing signs and the headlights of oncoming traffic send out halo-like rays. These are the source of glare and might temporarily blind you, cause blurry vision, activate your instincts to look away, or make depth perception harder to tell at a distance. And as you get older, you can even become more sensitive to these big changes in light level. When drivers of any age can’t focus on the road, they are more likely to swerve or not see sudden obstacles.  But again, like with the sun, window tinting can reduce that annoying glare and leave you better able to focus so you don’t get in an accident when someone in front of you suddenly turns on their brights.

Protects Against Window Damage

Finally, one little-known side effect of window tint is that the tinted film across the window also acts as basically a barrier against damage. Pebbles kicked up by the truck in front of you might put a crack into a normal window, but bounce off the many microscopic layers of a tinted window. And consider that the window tint film covers the entire surface in a thin, tough coat. If your vehicle should ever suffer an accident strong enough to splinter or shatter your window, cracks might form within the layers, but that film can hold the entire windshield together as best as it can. That saves you and your passengers from those dangerous flying shards of glass that might get into your eyes.

A few drivers will tell you a window tint for their vehicle would harm their visibility and make them less safe drivers. But those who already have this film installed know better – window tinting for a vehicle cuts down on the glare from the sun or from bright lights, protects you personally from other physical effects of sunlight, and helps stop your window from shattering in case of a serious accident.

Need any more convincing? Consider that thousands of automotive crashes occur every year, with the cause listed as being sun glare. Or what about how cars with tinting are more private, preventing everyone driving by from looking in and seeing you while you’re tired and on your way to or from work. Maybe you would simply like how your car looks with those modern dark tinted windows? Additional information here.

Contact us at Perfect Reflections Window Film and ask about the varieties of Window Tinting available for your automotive windows. Our professional installers are ready to add this safety-conscious addition to any compatible vehicle, bringing a layer of comfort and functionality at a great price. Call us soon for a free quote!

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14 Questions To Consider When Shopping For Window Tint

14 Questions To Consider When Shopping For Window Tint

Perfect Reflections Window Tint apply window tinting for many reasons. This product is a sort of thin, plastic-like cover that goes over the inside or outside of your window. Most building owners, both residential and commercial, use window tint for curb appeal, energy savings, shading and more. Before seeking out window tint for yourself, consider these questions.

Questions To Ask Before You Install Window Tint

1) Do you want more UV protection?

This is the major goal of window tinting, and has many benefits. Window tint can block up to 99% of the UV radiation in sunlight, which is what gives people melanoma or other skin cancers. You can get a sunburn indoors standing beside a clear window just as you can at the beach, but window tint filters out UV and can do so without making your indoor experience much darker.

2) Do you want to prevent sun bleaching?

Over a long time spent under sunlight, things tend to lose their color and fade, looking older and more worn in a process known as sun bleaching. By filtering sunlight, window tint also guards the goods near the windows of your business, or the carpet, furniture, paint and possessions in your home. Read more here.

3) Do you want energy savings at an affordable price?

Window tint can also block out a large amount of the heat energy from the sun which goes through clear glass. This means your building will be cooler and more comfortable in the hottest seasons, so you won’t need to use expensive air conditioning as often. Also the window tint can hold in heat that’s already indoors from escaping through the windows, keeping your building warmer in the colder season and reducing the cost of heating.

4) Do you want less glare on screens?

If desired, window tint can be made to block, reflect or even divert some of the outside visible light, even without changing your view of the outdoors. The visible light might be filtered or even redirected up to the ceiling. As a result of this, less light will be bouncing off our many screen displays and into our eyes, in other words causing that annoying glare and lowering productivity. But unlike UV radiation and heat energy, visible light is often more appreciated by us and so this dimming is more optional.

5) Do you want a higher curb appeal?

A window tint is one of the many modern technologies that add value to a business or home’s windows. People buying a property often consider what the building looks like to others arriving or passing by outside. Even if you aren’t currently planning to sell, installing a window tint now can be an investment for when you eventually do sell. Click here to learn more.

6) Do you want a sophisticated indoor appearance?

There are many varieties of window tint that can add a subtle tone or color to the inside. From metallics like silver and bronze, to bolder colors like ruby or aquamarine, you can personalize the look of your home to suit your tastes.

7) Do you want greater privacy?

Large windows give everyone walking by a clear look inside, which might be good for window shopping but isn’t always appreciated for homes or the windows at the back of a business. Window tint makes your home or business harder to see into from the outside, including some tints that give a mirror-like reflective finish without changing your view from inside.

8) Do you want better security?

To be honest, window tint cannot stop a determined invader from getting through your windows. But the thin cover over the window can help the glass stay together if someone attempts to break through, which might slow them down enough so that they reconsider an attempted smash and grab. More importantly, because window tint can obscure the indoors from the outside, burglars may see fewer reasons to break in at all.

9) Do you want a mix of these benefits?

Many window tints are made with the purpose of targeting several of the above needs together, and their ability to do so depends on the materials and thickness of the window tint. Thicker window tint can be more secure if someone tries to break through, but will absorb less heat energy. Tints with a more aesthetic or decorative focus are often less effective at the more practical needs. Ask your installers about which window tint is best for what you want to achieve.

10) Do you want just a temporary window tint?

Most window tints are applied to be permanent, and some need to be, but temporary homeowners or renters can get tints that are easy to later remove and clean off. This is also a great option if you’re not sure yet about window tint and want to simply try them for a short time.

11) Do your windows already have built-in solar protection?

Many newer windows come with a low-emissivity coating – a thin metal-oxide layer – that does some of the same things as window tinting, meaning there will be little or no benefit of adding window tinting.

12) Will you need to maintain your window tint?

There are many varieties of window tint, so the answer will depend on what you get. But most of the thinner window tints resist water and can rebuff scratches.

13) Does a window tint affect the warranty for your windows?

Window tints are classified as modifying the window and some can affect glass durability You should check whether the makers of your windows allow tinting to be applied, because in some case this will invalidate a warranty.

14) Who can be relied upon to install window tint?

If applied by an inexperienced crew, you could end up with more problems as your window tint fails or comes off. Find workers who have shown they can do the job well with good reviews and a great reputation.

Is Window Tint Right For You?

Contact us at Perfect Reflections Window Film and ask about the many varieties of Window Tinting available for your home or business. Our professional installers are ready to add this modern touch to any building, bringing a layer of comfort and functionality at a great price. Call us soon for a free quote!

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Cut Your Energy Costs With Home Window Tinting – Our Top 5 Tips

Cut Your Energy Costs With Home Window Tinting

Have you been gritting your teeth each time you pick up your energy bill for the month? It’s no surprise to homeowners that the demands of heating and cooling your home can result in higher energy bills. One thing that may surprise you is the fact that saving on energy costs can be as simple (and affordable!) as window tinting. Read on and find out how you can see big savings and even get a little more privacy for your home. 

Window Tinting and Energy Savings 

While window tinting is often associated with vehicles, the process is available and highly beneficial for homes as well. In terms of energy costs, a significant amount of energy is lost through windows alone. You might wonder why that is.

For one, glass isn’t a good insulator. This means that the money you have spent heating your home during fall and winter is essentially going out the window as it escapes through the glass. Likewise, untinted glass allows UV rays to come into your home, raising the cost of cooling. Take the sunshine state as an example. Florida residents spend up to 40 percent more on electric bills for cooling costs. 

Window tinting serves as a cost-effective way to potentially cut energy costs by 80 percent just by filtering out and blocking UV rays from coming into your home. With the right tinting, you can quickly save on heating and cooling bills without spending an arm and a leg.

Protect Both Your Privacy and Your Belongings

Aside from the initial cost-savings of lowering your energy costs, window tinting can offer a few other pleasant benefits – privacy, comfort and preserving the longevity of your belongings. Being able to enjoy the views outside our home while having the view inside of your home obscured by the tint provides both enjoyment and a greater element of safety. More here.

Tinting your windows also significantly reduces glare on TV and blocks harmful UV rays from  fading out or degrading carpets and furniture. Even as the sun floods into your home during the afternoon, you and your family will be able to truly relax.

5 Tips to Get Started With Home Window Tinting

Now that you know the benefits of getting your windows tinted, it’s time to learn how you can get started. Here are five tips for installing tinted windows on your home:

Consider the Types of Tinting

Not all window tinting is created equal. If you want to reap the energy and cost saving benefits of your home, learn about the 3 types of tinting available and what protection they offer your home. 

  • Decorative – Decorative window tinting has the primary purpose of aesthetics. Providing little in the way of security or UV ray blockage, decorative tinting is installed for added privacy or to add designs and patterns to windows.
  • Security – Security tinting is the thickest of the 3 types and, similar to decorative tinting, doesn’t provide much in energy-savings. Instead, the thick film is suited for protecting the home from break-ins and storm damage. 
  • Solar – Solar window tinting is superior in absorbing and reflecting UV rays and is the best for lowering energy costs. 

Know Your Windows

Are the windows of your home actually compatible with tinting? Unfortunately, not all window types are suited for tinting and can crack as a result. This is due to the varying levels of thermal stress the glass may undergo in response to the heat absorption properties of the solar tinting film. The following glass types may not be compatible:

  • Insulated (or double paned) glass that is 10 years old or older 
  • Glass with a heat absorption rate of 50% or higher
  • Tinted annealed glass that is thicker than ¼ inch

Check Your Warranty

Prior to getting tinting installed in your home, think about whether the addition will void the warranty on your windows. Certain types of film can cause damage and many companies will not honor warranties after the windows have been modified. Another great article.

Consider Budget and Maintenance

While window tinting is an affordable way to reduce energy costs for your home, homeowners with larger homes may want to consider whether it is economical to provide coverage for all the windows in the home. If budget is a concern, think about which rooms and windows in home see the most sun and have tinting installed accordingly. 

In terms of cost and longevity, window tinting can last up to 20 years before requiring replacements. Homeowners can improve the lifespan of tinting with regular washing with gentle, nonabrasive cleansers.

Get Professional To Help You Cut Your Energy Costs With Window Tint

While window tinting can seem simple at first, there are quite a few mistakes beginners can make that may cause unnecessary damage or ineffective installation. Tinting can rip during installation. Bubbles from uneven application can result in a noticeable, unattractive look for your windows. Even worse, the wrong film can lead to cracks in your windows.

Hiring professionals with expertise in tinting and handling various glass types will help you on your way to improving your home and lowering your energy bills.